I’m not sure how acceptable it is to call myself a ‘90s kid instead of a 2000’s (considering I was born in 1999), but either way I love both decades. The platform flip-flops, my obsession over Zack Efron (I still love you), the Tamagotchi game hanging from everyone’s backpack give me major throwback vibes, but nothing brings me back more than the music.
It may be a bit of a stretch, but I truly believe this music formed me—I mean, why else would I still know every last lyric of a throwback that pops up on a random Spotify playlist? The late ‘90s and early ‘00s were full of iconic boy bands, girl groups and pop princesses. Who could forget the Backstreet Boys, Destiny’s Child and Britney Spears? No one ever, that’s who.
It was hard, but I narrowed down 10 of the best throwback songs from arguably the best decades in history. Prepare to be nostalgic.
1. Avril Lavigne: “Girlfriend” (2007)
With this song, Avril went from her tomboy look in the “Sk8er Boy” music video to a pop-punk-princess. It’s pretty clear this song rocked the world considering she recorded it in 7 different languages.
2. The Veronicas: “Untouched” (2007)
Not only a great song but also pretty relevant to the current quarantine and social distancing rules…
3. Hilary Duff: “Wake Up” (2005)
I used to have a toothbrush that played this song. That’s when you know it was a hit.
4. Michelle Branch: “Everywhere” (2001)
The title definitely suits the song because it truly was played EVERYWHERE.
5. Destiny’s Child: “Say My Name” (1999)
If there’s one good thing about being cheated on, it’s that amazing music can come out of it. You’d think after this, people would know that you’ve got to treat Beyoncé right (looking at you Jay-Z).
6. Natasha Bedingfield: “Unwritten” (2004)
If it was good enough to be The Hills theme song, then it’s definitely good enough for me.
7. Britney Spears: “Baby One More Time” (1998)
Britney Spears is the definition of pop perfection and anyone who disagrees is lying to themselves. Those pigtails? That fluffy pom-pom? Those over-the-knee socks? Only Britney.
8. Lillix: “It’s About Time” (2003)
Flashback to 12-year-old me dramatically staring out the car window and pretending I’m in a music video. I still do this TBH.
9. Taylor Swift: “Our Song” (2006)
TBT to country Taylor Swift! Such a timeless song, would it be too much for me to play this at my wedding?
10. Brandy and Monica: “The Boy Is Mine” (1998)
Before the love triangles of Twilight and Gossip Girl, there was this. Just remember ladies, fighting over a guy is never worth it…unless you produce an amazing duet together after you’re done with him.