1990s

The 1990s ushered in a new era of rock defined by authenticity, angst, and alternative sounds. Grunge exploded from Seattle with bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains, reshaping mainstream rock with raw emotion and heavy riffs. Meanwhile, Radiohead and Smashing Pumpkins pushed boundaries with artful experimentation, while Oasis and Blur fueled the Britpop movement across the Atlantic. Pop-punk gained momentum through Green Day and Blink-182, and nu-metal began its rise with bands like Korn and Deftones. The ’90s rock scene was diverse, emotional, and unafraid to challenge conventions.