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Last updated on October 31, 2025, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Candlebox - Far Behind“Far Behind,” released in 1993, is an emotional tribute by Candlebox to Andrew Wood of the band Mother Love Bone, a close friend of the group who died of an overdose. Frontman Kevin Martin, often associated with the Seattle grunge scene and bands like Pearl Jam, delivers a heartfelt performance. “Far Behind” became a major success and remains a classic 90s rock anthem. The music video is directed by Nick Egan. Writer(s) : Peter Andrew Klett, Kevin Colin Martin, Scott John Ric Hard Mercado, Bardi David Martin Publisher(s) : Wc Music Corp Featured on the 1993 album Candlebox
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 2 . Limp Bizkit - Behind Blue Eyes“Behind Blue Eyes” is a cover of The Who’s famous song, released in 2003. Limp Bizkit, led by Fred Durst, also known for his collaborations with artists like Method Man, adds a nu-metal twist to this introspective ballad, highlighting the duality of human emotions. The song was also featured in the animated film "The Angry Birds Movie." The music video is directed by Fred Durst. Writer(s) : Peter Dennis Townshend Publisher(s) : Fabulous Music Ltd Featured on the 2005 album Results May Vary
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 3 . Counting Crows - Accidentally In Love“Accidentally in Love,” released in 2004, was specially written for the film "Shrek 2" directed by Andrew Adamson and Conrad Vernon, featuring the voices of Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz. The song was nominated for numerous awards, including an Oscar, Golden Globe, and Grammy, and quickly became a hit with its upbeat tune and joyful lyrics. It represents a key moment in the film where the main characters explore their feelings. The music video is directed by Meiert Avis. Writer(s) : Daniel John Vickrey, Matthew Malley, David Lynn Bryson, David A Immergluck, Adam Fredric Duritz Publisher(s) : Songs Of Dwa, Songs Of Universal Inc, Pw Ballads, Jones Falls Music Featured on the 2004 album Shrek 2 : Soundtrack
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 4 . Matchbox Twenty - Real World"Real World" toys with alternate realities, as Rob Thomas wonders if life might feel simpler as a superhero or a TV weather man with more control over chaos. Matchbox Twenty spins these musings into a mid-tempo track that couches its existential curiosity in laid-back rock phrasing. The music video echoes this playfulness, staging surreal, offbeat scenarios that dramatize the song’s hypotheticals with ironic flair. It marks the band’s first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100. Writer(s) : Robert Kelly Thomas Publisher(s) : U Rule Music, Emi Blackwood Music Inc Featured on the 1996 album Yourself or Someone Like You
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 5 . Live - Selling The DramaCo-produced with Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads, “Selling the Drama,” released in 1994, is a single by Live known for its introspective lyrics and distinctive alternative sound. Frontman Ed Kowalczyk explores themes of spirituality and the search for meaning. The song was a success on rock radio and helped establish Live as one of the leading bands of the era. The music video is directed by Julia Heyward. Writer(s) : Patrick Mic Hael Dahlheimer, Edward J Kowalczyk, Chad A Gracey, Chad Taylor Publisher(s) : Mucho Loco Music Ltd Featured on the 1994 album Throwing Copper
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 6 . Taproot - Again And AgainReleased in 2000, "Again and Again" leads off Taproot’s debut album Gift with just enough nu-metal crunch to rattle the shelves at Sam Goody. Written by the band and produced by Ulrich Wild, it swings between restrained, melodic verses and full-throttle choruses that don’t ask for permission before blowing the doors off. A heavy presence on rock radio and MTV, the track nudges Taproot straight into early 2000s metal rotation, sneakers first. Writer(s) : Jimmy Jam, Derek Boland, Terry Steven Lewis Publisher(s) : Taproot Publishing Featured on the 2000 album Gift
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 7 . The Used - The Taste Of InkProduced by John Feldmann, “The Taste of Ink,” released in 2002, is The Used’s debut single, known for its post-hardcore style. The song captures the raw energy and emotion of youth, perfectly embodied by frontman Bert McCracken, who has also collaborated with bands like My Chemical Romance. This track marked a turning point for the band, gaining international recognition and propelling them onto the alternative music scene. The music video is directed by the Malloys. Writer(s) : Branden L Steineckert, Quinn S Allman, Jeph Howard, Robert C McCracken Publisher(s) : Used Movement Music Featured on the 2002 album The Used
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 8 . Paul Oakenfold - Starry Eyed Surprise“Starry Eyed Surprise,” released in 2002, is a single by Paul Oakenfold featuring Shifty ShellShock, the rapper from Crazy Town. The song blends elements of electronic music and rap, creating a festive and euphoric atmosphere. Oakenfold, a DJ renowned for his collaborations with Madonna and U2, brings his expertise in music production. Writer(s) : Harry Nilsson, Andrew Ling Gray, Seth Brooks Binzer, Fred Neil, Paul Mark Oakenfold Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing Limited (Gb), Chrysalis-Music-Ltd, Arlovol Music, Mute Song Ltd Featured on the 2002 album Bunkka
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 9 . Faith No More - Digging The Grave“Digging the Grave,” released in 1995, is an energetic track by Faith No More, a pioneering alternative rock band. The song features powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals by Mike Patton, reflecting the band’s evolution towards a rawer, more direct sound. The song was also featured in the television series Beavis and Butt-Head. The music video is directed by Marcus Raboy. Writer(s) : Michael Andrew Bordin, Bill Gould, Michael Allen Patton Publisher(s) : Big Thrilling Music Featured on the 1995 album King for a Day... Fool for a Lifetime
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 10 . Chris Cornell - Billie JeanIn 2007, Chris Cornell reimagined Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" as a dark, acoustic ballad. Stripping the song to its core with minimal instrumentation, Cornell's version slows the tempo and emphasizes the song's inherent paranoia and tension, creating a more introspective interpretation. Writer(s) : Michael Jackson Publisher(s) : Mijac Music Featured on the 2007 album Carry On
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 11 . Spacehog - In the MeantimeReleased in 1996 and produced by Bryce Goggin, “In the Meantime” is Spacehog’s most famous track. Featuring a sample from “Telephone and Rubber Band” by the Penguin Cafe Orchestra, the song is marked by its catchy bass riff and spacey melody. Frontman Royston Langdon, also known for his collaborations with artists like The Last Internationale, delivers a memorable performance. The song was used in several films and TV shows, including the VH1 series “Hindsight” and the video games Guitar Hero 5 and Rock Band 3. The music video is directed by Jake Scott. Writer(s) : Royston Langdon Publisher(s) : Hog Space Music Ltd Featured on the 1995 album Resident Alien
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 12 . Better Than Ezra - Good“Good,” released in 1995, is the single that propelled Better Than Ezra into the spotlight, becoming an anthem on college radio stations. The song, with its catchy chorus and nostalgic lyrics, explores the positive aspects that can emerge from the end of a relationship despite the initial pain. The band, led by Kevin Griffin, is often associated with other alternative scene artists like Toad the Wet Sprocket. The music video is directed by Chris Applebaum. Featured on the 1995 album Deluxe
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 13 . Third Eye Blind - Semi~Charmed Life“Semi-Charmed Life,” released in 1997, is a hit by Third Eye Blind that captures the carefree and hedonistic spirit of the 90s. With its catchy lyrics and fast tempo, the song paradoxically deals with dark themes like methamphetamine addiction and the despair from toxic relationships. Frontman Stephan Jenkins, known for his collaborations with other alternative scene artists, delivers a memorable performance. The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and video games, including "American Pie" and "Guitar Hero: Van Halen." It even inspired a nail polish color named "Semi-Charmed" in 2022. The music video is directed by Jamie Morgan. Writer(s) : Arion Gabriel Salazar, Stephan Jenkins, Kevin Rene Cadogan Publisher(s) : Music Of Everpop Featured on the 1997 album Third Eye Blind
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 14 . Nickelback - How You Remind Me“How You Remind Me,” released in 2001, is one of Nickelback’s biggest hits, reaching the top of international charts. The track, with its catchy riffs and introspective lyrics by Chad Kroeger, addresses themes of error and forgiveness. The music video shows the band performing in a small venue, interspersed with scenes of Kroeger’s character being haunted by memories of his ex-girlfriend. The music video is directed by Greg and Colin Strause. Writer(s) : Michael Dougla Kroeger, Ryan Vikedal, Ryan Anthony Peake, Chad Robert Turton Publisher(s) : Warner Tamerlane Pub Corp, Arm Your Dillo Publishing Inc, Zero G Music Inc, Ladekiv Music Inc, Black Diesel Music Inc Featured on the 2001 album Silver Side Up
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 15 . The Offspring - The Kids Aren't Alright"The Kids Aren't Alright," released in 1998, is a poignant song by The Offspring that delves into the failures and troubles faced by residents in a small American town—unplanned pregnancies, unemployment, drug addiction, and suicide. With its dark lyrics and energetic guitar riff, the track reflects the band's social and economic concerns. Dexter Holland, who also holds a Ph.D. in molecular biology, brings intellectual depth to the lyrics. The video received heavy rotation on MTV and was nominated for Best Direction at the MTV Video Music Awards. The music video is directed by Yariv Gaber. Writer(s) : Felicia Ferraro, Bryce Vine, Inconnu Compositeur Auteur, Philippe Fostinelli Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc, Bye Felicia S Music, Unknown Publisher, Straight From The Art Music Featured on the 1998 album Americana
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 16 . The Offspring - Pretty Fly [For A White Guy]The Offspring’s 1998 single “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)” from their fifth studio album, “Americana,” skewers a suburban white male’s awkward attempts to mimic hip-hop culture. Frontman Dexter Holland credits teenagers in Orange County as his muse, their clueless posturing inspiring both the satire and its infectious beat, which nods to Def Leppard’s “Gunter glieben glauchen globen.” McG’s music video amplifies the irony with Israeli actor Guy Cohen embodying the ‘wannabe.’ Rankings spanned continents, hitting number one in ten countries, quadruple-platinum down under. The music video is directed by McG. Writer(s) : Harry Wayne Casey, R Finch, Stephen C Washington, Dr Dre, Daniel Webster, Raymond Guy Turner, Steven R Arrington, Mark L Adams, Snoop Dogg Publisher(s) : Sony Tunes Inc, Suge Publishing Featured on the 1998 album Americana
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 17 . Linkin Park - Points Of AuthorityLinkin Park's "Points of Authority," the fourth track on their 2000 debut "Hybrid Theory," evolves from a demo titled "Oh No," later featured on the "LP Underground X: Demos" CD in 2010. Producer Don Gilmore pushed the band, as they struggled for months to create its chorus, with Mike Shinoda reworking Brad Delson's guitar riff into a fragmented, signature sound. Planned single releases were shelved, but a promotional video surfaced via the "Frat Party At The Pankake Festival" DVD. Its remix, "Pts.OF.Athrty," was the sole single from 2002's "Reanimation," hitting No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart. The music video is directed by Nathan "Karma" Cox. Writer(s) : Joseph Hahn, Robert Bourdon, Chester C Bennington, Brad Delson, Mike Shinoda Publisher(s) : Zomba Enterprises Inc, Zomba Songs Inc Featured on the 2000 album Hybrid Theory
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 18 . Linkin Park - Somewhere I BelongReleased in 2003, “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park fuses nu-metal with melodic rock, crafting a narrative of inner turmoil and self-reclamation. Its raw energy is driven by layered guitar riffs juxtaposed with introspective lyrics shaped by the band’s shared struggles. Joe Hahn’s surreal music video amplifies the song’s dreamlike meditation on finding clarity, blending fragmented visuals with themes of self-discovery. While peaking at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100, its dominance on the Alternative Songs chart highlights its resonance within the alt-rock sphere. The track’s emotional core and polished production remain connected to the ethos of the early 2000s, balancing aggressive intensity with reflection. The music video is directed by Joseph Hahn. Writer(s) : Robert G Bourdon, Joseph Hahn, Chester C Bennington, Michael Kenji Shinoda, Bradford Philip Delson, David Michael Farrell Publisher(s) : Chesterchaz Publishing, Nondisclosure Agreement Music, Pancakey Cakes Music, Big Bad Mr Hahn Music, Zomba Songs Inc, Rob Bourdon Music Featured on the 2003 album Meteora
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 19 . Cake - I Will Survive“I Will Survive,” released in 1996, is a bold and stripped-down cover of Gloria Gaynor’s disco classic by the band Cake. Cake’s version stands out with its alternative rock arrangement, John McCrea’s monotone voice, and some subtle lyrical changes – “that stupid lock” becoming “that fucking lock,” which reportedly displeased Gloria Gaynor due to the coarse language. The band, known for their eclectic style and unique covers, has also reimagined other classics like “Mahna Mahna” from The Muppets. The music video is directed by Mark Kohr. Writer(s) : Dino George Fekaris, Frederick J Perren, Christian Schneider Publisher(s) : Bibo Music Pub Inc Featured on the 1996 album Fashion Nugget
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 20 . Nickelback - Too Bad"Too Bad," released in 2001, is a Nickelback song that deals with the effects of family breakdown due to a father's absence, inspired by frontman Chad Kroeger's personal experiences. With powerful guitar riffs and emotional lyrics, the song explores pain and resilience in the face of loss. The music video is directed by Nigel Dick. Writer(s) : Ryan Anthony Peake, Ryan Vikedal, Michael Dougla Kroeger, Chad Robert Turton Publisher(s) : Black Diesel Music Inc, Zero G Music Inc, Arm Your Dillo Publishing Inc, Warner Tamerlane Pub Corp, Ladekiv Music Inc Featured on the 2001 album Silver Side Up
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ABOUT POST-GRUNGEWhat is Post-Grunge ?Post-Grunge has its roots in the Grunge movement of Seattle in the 1990s, led by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, a genre characterized by distorted sounds and often dark and introspective lyrics. Post-Grunge In MusicWith a more conventional structure than their Grunge predecessors, Post-Grunge songs typically follow a verse-chorus-verse format with catchy and memorable choruses. Unlike Grunge, which could sometimes be nihilistic, Post-Grunge tends to have a more introspective and optimistic tone. The lyrics of Post-Grunge songs frequently address personal and emotional themes such as disappointment, sadness, redemption, and human relationships.
Post-Grunge uses distorted electric guitars but in a more polished and less chaotic manner than Grunge. Guitar solos are more frequent, and the influence of classic rock is evident in the instrumental complexity. The arrangements are often cleaner and more produced, with an emphasis on vocal melody clarity. Some of the most influential producers associated with post-grunge music include:
Post-Grunge in CultureThe cinema of the 1990s and 2000s can be said to be influenced by Post-Grunge. This influence can be seen in the dark and realistic visual aesthetics, often with an urban or suburban ambiance, and in the themes explored – youth issues like alienation, depression, and the search for identity; complicated personal relationships, often with a touch of melancholy or cynicism; and the confrontation of contemporary personal and social challenges. These same themes are found in television series where the main characters are often facing personal challenges and a quest for identity, such as “My So-Called Life” (1994-1995) or “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1997-2003). The soundtracks of these series, as well as those of video games or advertising campaigns of the era, frequently include Post-Grunge music excerpts. Post-Grunge in FashionThe fashion associated with Post-Grunge is less distinct and iconic than that of original Grunge. The clothing and footwear are more casual – leather or denim jackets, worn or ripped jeans, simple T-shirts, often with band logos, sturdy boots like Dr. Martens, but also classic sneakers, and worn Converse All Stars. Clothing is often layered – hoodies under jackets and layered long and short T-shirts. |
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