Interested in traveling back in time to the best 90s acoustic guitar songs?
The 1990s, ah! a decade that featured friends, fantastic music, and flannel.
The earthy strum of the acoustic guitar made a triumphant resurgence in the music industry during this golden age.
So grab a seat, tune up your guitar, and explore the sound diversity of the best acoustic guitar tunes from the 1990s.
And if you are looking for a Spotify playlist of these songs, we’ve got it for you:
The Essence of the Best 90s Acoustic Guitar Songs: Unforgettable, Versatile, and Rich in Technique
You might ask yourself, “What makes these tracks the best 90s acoustic guitar songs?”
Like a well-loved instrument, each song has its unique patina, a distinctive voice, a story to share, and a mood to convey.
They’re unforgettable: No matter how experienced you are as a guitarist, these tunes will surely strike a chord with you, just like your favorite chord sequence.
When did you first hear “Wonderwall” by Oasis or “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton?
Didn’t that make your hands tingle with a desire to play the guitar and your heart flutter?
They’re versatile: These best 90s acoustic guitar songs span genres, from the grunge of Nirvana’s “About a Girl” to the alternative rock flavor of Radiohead’s “High and Dry.”
Each brings a fresh challenge, a new riff, or a picking pattern to master, making them perfect practice material.
They’re rich in guitar techniques: Beyond just chords, these 90s acoustic guitar songs will introduce many guitar techniques.
For instance, Extreme’s “More Than Words” teaches you about fingerpicking, while “Black” by Pearl Jam brings in a unique blend of arpeggios and power chords.
And if you want to dive even deeper into the 90s guitar songs, check out this book on Amazon.
Best 90s Acoustic Guitar Songs
1. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana (1991)
Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana guitar tab
The song opens with a distorted guitar riff that immediately grabs attention and sets the tone for the rebellious and angst-filled track.
Characterized by their cryptic and evocative style, Nirvana captures the disillusionment and apathy of the youth culture of the time.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” became an anthem for a generation, catapulting Nirvana to mainstream success and forever leaving its mark on the history of rock music.
2. Losing my Religion – R.E.M. (1991)
Losing my Religion – R.E.M. guitar tab
Michael Stipe’s emotive vocals beautifully convey a sense of introspection and vulnerability, while the lyrics explore themes of unrequited love, obsession, and questioning one’s faith.
The song’s instrumentation, including the layered acoustic guitars and haunting backing vocals, creates a unique and atmospheric sound.
“Losing My Religion” became one of R.E.M.’s biggest hits, showcasing their ability to craft introspective and thought-provoking music that resonated with listeners worldwide.
3. Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers (1999)
Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers guitar tab
This vibrant and introspective alternative rock anthem released in 1999 showcases the band’s signature blend of funk-infused rhythms, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics.
With its infectious guitar riffs, energetic basslines, and Anthony Kiedis’ dynamic vocals, the song explores the darker side of the glamorous Californian lifestyle, touching on themes of fame, media manipulation, and the loss of innocence.
This song features a social commentary on the allure and pitfalls of Hollywood and American culture.
4. Creep – Radiohead (1993)
“Creep” by Radiohead opens with a soft, melancholic guitar riff that sets the tone for the track.
The lyrics delve into themes of self-doubt, social anxiety, and unrequited love.
All the while, it gradually builds in intensity, with the distorted guitar chords and explosive chorus capturing a raw sense of frustration and longing.
5. Wonderwall – Oasis (1995)
This one has a distinctive acoustic guitar intro and catchy chord progressions, making it instantly recognizable.
Liam Gallagher uses his distinct vocals to touch on themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships through his lyrics.
The song became a massive hit, captivating listeners with its memorable melody and sing-along chorus, solidifying its place as one of Oasis’ most iconic and enduring songs.
6. Under the Bridge – Red Hot Chili Peppers (1991)
Under the Bridge – Red Hot Chili Peppers guitar tab
Known for its introspective lyrics and melodic sound, the song explores themes of loneliness, addiction, and the search for personal connection.
Anthony Kiedis, the lead vocalist, wrote the lyrics based on his own experiences with drug addiction and the feelings of isolation that came with it.
“Under the Bridge” is a powerful and introspective rock ballad that showcases the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ ability to create emotionally resonant music while maintaining their unique blend of rock, funk, and alternative styles.
7. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton (1992)
Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton guitar tab
“Tears in Heaven” is a gentle acoustic ballad.
It showcases Clapton’s fingerstyle guitar playing, delicate melody, and poignant lyrics.
The lyrics of “Tears in Heaven” are a poignant expression of Clapton’s grief and struggle to come to terms with his son’s loss.
“Tears in Heaven” was widely praised and received several awards, including the Grammy Awards for Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1993.
8. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Green Day (1997)
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Green Day guitar tab
A notable departure from the band’s typically energetic punk sound, the song showcases their versatility and ability to craft a touching, memorable acoustic ballad.
“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” has become one of Green Day’s signature songs, remembered for its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the emotional resonance it creates with listeners.
Despite its initially mixed reception from fans due to its acoustic sound, it has proven to be a timeless piece that transcends the band’s punk roots.
9. More Than Words – Extreme (1990)
More Than Words – Extreme guitar tab
“More Than Words” is a departure from Extreme’s usual funk metal style and instead showcases the band’s softer, more melodic side.
The song is performed with just two acoustic guitars and vocals, featuring Bettencourt’s masterful fingerpicking and harmonized vocals with Cherone.
Its intimate performance style and heartfelt message continue to resonate with listeners, making it a classic of its era.
10. Iris – Goo Goo Dolls (1998)
Iris – Goo Goo Dolls guitar tab
“Iris” is rich in poignant and romantic lyrics.
The song’s name comes from a country singer in the film who Rzeznik found compelling.
The chorus is particularly memorable and features the line “I just want you to know who I am,” emphasizing the theme of longing to be understood and loved.
The song’s universal themes of longing and desire and its memorable melody and sweeping dynamics have helped it maintain its popularity over the years.
11. Linger – The Cranberries (1993)
Linger – The Cranberries guitar tab
Lyrically, “Linger” is a poignant exploration of love and betrayal.
The song was inspired by O’Riordan’s first serious kiss and the heartbreak when she discovered the guy she kissed had been dared to do so.
The song was widely praised for its catchy melody, the emotional depth of its lyrics, and O’Riordan’s unique, haunting vocal delivery.
12. No Rain – Blind Melon (1992)
No Rain – Blind Melon guitar tab
This unique features a mix of alternative and folk-rock and has an upbeat melody and catchy guitar riffs.
The song’s distinctive intro features a memorable acoustic guitar hook that immediately sets the tone for the track.
“No Rain” speaks to feelings of depression and alienation, but it’s delivered in a relatively light-hearted and catchy way that contrasts with its heavier thematic content.
13. Karma Police – Radiohead (1997)
Karma Police – Radiohead guitar tab
This haunting and atmospheric track has a minimalist piano riff driven by a steady rhythm section and features a layer of ambient sounds.
This song is abstract and open to interpretation, a characteristic often found in Radiohead’s songs.
The title “Karma Police” refers to the idea of a force that punishes people for their bad actions.
Some interpret the song as a critique of capitalism or as a reflection on the concept of karma in a more general sense.
14. Don’t Look Back in Anger – Oasis (1996)
Don’t Look Back in Anger – Oasis guitar tab
The song showcases Noel Gallagher’s distinctive songwriting style, blending introspective lyrics with a universal sentiment.
The song’s emotional resonance, memorable melody, and uplifting message have solidified its place as one of Oasis’ most beloved and enduring songs, defining the Britpop era of the 1990s.
15. One – U2 (1991)
“One” explores themes of unity, love, and forgiveness.
The lyrics are open to interpretation but touch on personal and universal struggles, emphasizing the importance of connection and empathy.
It’s a powerful and emotionally charged track featuring a distinct guitar riff from The Edge that opens the song and sets its iconic tone.
The composition blends rock, alternative, and post-punk elements, creating a dynamic and atmospheric sound.
16. High and Dry – Radiohead (1995)
High and Dry – Radiohead guitar tab
Featuring a distinctive guitar-driven sound, most consider “High and Dry” one of the best 90s acoustic guitar songs with acoustic and electric guitars intertwining to create a layered and atmospheric backdrop.
The song opens with a catchy guitar riff that sets the tone, and its dynamics gradually build throughout, culminating in a soaring chorus.
“High and Dry” explores themes of vulnerability, disillusionment, and the fear of being left behind.
The lyrics speak to a sense of being abandoned or let down by someone, expressing the pain and confusion that can come with such experiences.
17. Lake of Fire – Nirvana (1994)
Lake of Fire – Nirvana guitar tab
This folk-inspired, acoustic-driven track has a melancholic and introspective vibe.
The song’s instrumentation primarily consists of acoustic guitars, complemented by gentle percussion and the distinct, haunting voice of Kurt Cobain.
It explores themes of mortality, spiritual questioning, and the afterlife.
The song’s lyrics pose thought-provoking questions about the nature of heaven and hell, contemplating the consequences of one’s actions in life and the possibility of redemption.
18. Crash Into Me – Dave Matthews Band (1996)
Crash Into Me – Dave Matthews Band guitar tab
“Crash Into Me” is one of Dave Matthews Band’s best 90s acoustic guitar songs.
Its emotional resonance, infectious melody, and poetic lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a concert staple.
The song’s success on rock and adult contemporary charts solidified the band’s mainstream appeal and helped them reach a broader audience.
19. Round Here – Counting Crows (1993)
Round Here – Counting Crows guitar tab
“Round Here” quickly became one of Counting Crows’ most popular songs, contributing to the success of their debut album.
Its honest and relatable lyrics, combined with the band’s emotive musicality, resonated with listeners and helped solidify Counting Crows’ reputation as a leading force in the alternative rock scene of the 1990s.
20. Mr. Jones – Counting Crows (1993)
Mr. Jones – Counting Crows guitar tab
This one is a vibrant and infectious blend of rock, pop, and folk influences.
It features a catchy, upbeat tempo and an instantly recognizable opening guitar riff that hooks listeners from the start.
“Mr. Jones” reflects on the pursuit of fame, identity, and artistic expression.
The song’s relatable themes, catchy melodies, and Adam Duritz’s distinctive vocal delivery resonated with audiences and solidified Counting Crows’ place in the alternative rock landscape of the 1990s.
21. Barely Breathing – Duncan Sheik (1996)
Barely Breathing – Duncan Sheik guitar tab
“Barely Breathing” is a melodic and introspective pop-rock song.
It features a catchy guitar-driven sound with a memorable guitar riff that serves as the song’s foundation.
Upon its release, the song achieved considerable success, reaching the top of the Billboard Adult Top 40 chart and peaking at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s introspective lyrics, infectious melody, and Duncan Sheik’s heartfelt delivery resonated with a broad audience, cementing its place as a hit of the late 90s.
22. Sex And Candy – Marcy Playground (1997)
Sex And Candy – Marcy Playground guitar tab
This one’s distinct sound has a laid-back groove, bluesy guitar riffs, and Wozniak’s unique vocal delivery.
The song opens with a catchy guitar hook that sets the tone for its playful and slightly mysterious atmosphere.
23. Fade Into You – Mazzy Star (1993)
Fade Into You – Mazzy Star guitar tab
“Fade Into You” is known for its dreamy and atmospheric sound, creating a mesmerizing and melancholic mood.
The lyrics convey a sense of yearning and a desire to lose oneself in the presence of another.
The song’s timeless appeal has allowed it to endure beyond the 90s, remaining a beloved and frequently covered song.
24. Patience – Guns N’ Roses (1990)
Patience – Guns N’ Roses guitar tab
This heartfelt and contemplative song explores themes of love, relationships, and the need for understanding.
The song showcases a softer side of the band’s repertoire compared to the hard rock and heavy metal sound for which they were known.
The track’s stripped-down arrangement and sincere lyrics resonated with audiences, and “Patience” became a significant commercial success for Guns N’ Roses.
25. Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley (1995)
Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley guitar tab
“Hallelujah” is a song written by Leonard Cohen, a Canadian singer-songwriter, popularized by Jeff Buckley’s performance.
It is poetic and introspective and explores themes of love, loss, spirituality, and the complexities of human relationships.
Jeff Buckley’s version of “Hallelujah” was released on his 1994 album “Grace” and has since become one of his most iconic and beloved songs.
26. 3 AM – Matchbox Twenty (1997)
3 AM – Matchbox Twenty guitar tab
“3 AM” is a mid-tempo alternative rock song that explores themes of vulnerability, loneliness, and personal struggles.
The lyrics depict a person dealing with their own demons in the early hours of the morning, using the time as a metaphor for self-reflection and introspection.
The track features a catchy melody, a strong vocal performance by lead singer Rob Thomas, and a memorable guitar-driven sound.
27. Save Tonight – Eagle-Eye Cherry (1997)
Save Tonight – Eagle-Eye Cherry guitar tab
The song is a rock ballad with elements of pop, folk, and alternative music.
It has an infectious, catchy melody with a guitar-driven sound.
Its lyrics talk about a temporary and bittersweet goodbye, with the urging to make the most of the time left together.
28. The Freshmen – The Verve Pipe (1997)
The Freshmen – The Verve Pipe guitar tab
Written by band members Brian Vander Ark and Donny Brown, “The Freshmen” is a melancholic song with introspective lyrics that tell a tragic story.
It deals with guilt, regret, and the repercussions of our actions, particularly focusing on the aftermath of a woman’s suicide and the protagonist’s emotional struggle with it.
29. One Headlight – The Wallflowers (1996)
One Headlight – The Wallflowers guitar tab
The music of “One Headlight” is characterized by its memorable organ riff, warm guitar sounds, and Jakob Dylan’s distinctive, raspy vocal delivery.
It’s a key track of the post-grunge era and remains one of The Wallflowers’ most popular songs.
It was written by the band’s lead singer Jakob Dylan, who is the son of the legendary folk musician Bob Dylan.
30. Let Her Cry – Hootie & the Blowfish (1994)
Let Her Cry – Hootie & the Blowfish guitar tab
“Let Her Cry” is a ballad about a troubled relationship, conveying feelings of longing, helplessness, and regret.
The lyrics evoke an emotional narrative in which the narrator watches a loved one struggle but feels unable to help her.
The combination of the melancholy lyrics and catchy melody has helped the song maintain its popularity over the years.
31. Daughter – Pearl Jam (1993)
Daughter – Pearl Jam guitar tab
The song’s lyrics, penned by lead vocalist Eddie Vedder, tell the story of a girl with a learning disability who is misunderstood and abused by her parents.
Vedder explained that the song addresses how parental behavior affects children and how it can lead to psychological issues as they grow older.
Driven by acoustic guitars, its haunting melody and impassioned vocal performance by Vedder make it one of the band’s most memorable songs.
32. Kiss Me – Sixpence None the Richer (1997)
Kiss Me – Sixpence None the Richer guitar tab
This pop song has light, melodic sounds, driven by a distinctive acoustic guitar part and the soft, ethereal vocals of lead singer Leigh Nash.
“Kiss Me” was notably featured in several films and TV shows, including “She’s All That” and “Dawson’s Creek”, which helped boost its popularity.
It is Sixpence None the Richer’s most popular song and has become a classic of ’90s pop music.
33. Dumb – Nirvana (1993)
“Dumb” showcases the quieter, more melodic side of Nirvana’s music, although it still features the loud, distorted guitar sound that the band is known for.
The song’s arrangement is notable for the inclusion of a cello, which lends an additional layer of melancholy to the track.
“Dumb” stands as a testament to Cobain’s knack for writing deeply emotional and engaging songs, and it remains a fan favorite among Nirvana’s extensive catalogue.
34. The Way – Fastball (1998)
“The Way” was inspired by a news story Scalzo read about an elderly couple who disappeared and were later found dead in their car at the bottom of a ravine.
Scalzo imagined a more romantic scenario where the couple willingly disappears to escape their obligations and live freely on the road.
The success of “The Way” led to a resurgence in popularity for Fastball, and it remains the band’s most well-known song.
35. Crazy – Aerosmith (1993)
“Crazy” showcases Aerosmith’s ability to combine rock with elements of blues and pop.
The lyrics talk about a man’s longing for a woman who’s driving him ‘crazy.
As for the ‘Unplugged’ version, Aerosmith is known for their energetic and powerful live performances, and “Crazy” is no exception.
In an unplugged performance, the song would typically feature acoustic guitars, lighter percussion, and a more intimate vocal performance by Steven Tyler.
The emotive power of the song works well in such a stripped-down setting, allowing the song’s lyrics and melody to take center stage.
36. Cryin – Aerosmith (1993)
“Cryin'” is a song about the pain and regret associated with a failed relationship.
The lyrics express feelings of loss, betrayal, and heartbreak.
In an unplugged performance, “Cryin'” typically features acoustic guitars, lighter percussion, and a more intimate vocal performance by Steven Tyler, emphasizing the song’s emotional weight.
37. Zombie – The Cranberries (1994)
Zombie – The Cranberries guitar tab
The song was written as a protest against the violence caused by the sectarian conflict known as The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
The lyrics are a plea for peace, expressing frustration and sadness about the ongoing violence.
“Zombie” is characterized by O’Riordan’s powerful and emotive vocal performance and its heavy, grunge-inspired instrumentation – a departure from the band’s typically more subdued and melodic sound.
The song remains a classic and influential piece of 90s alternative rock.
38. The Man Who Sold the World – Nirvana (1994)
The Man Who Sold the World – Nirvana guitar tab
“The Man Who Sold the World” is a song originally by David Bowie from his third studio album of the same name released in 1970.
However, many people are more familiar with the version by the American rock band Nirvana, which was performed during their MTV Unplugged session in 1993.
Nirvana’s version of the song is a stripped-down, acoustic rendition that retains the haunting qualities of Bowie’s original while adding its unique grunge aesthetic.
Cobain’s raw and emotive vocals deliver the cryptic lyrics, which are open to various interpretations but can be seen as dealing with issues of identity, self-doubt, and existential dread.
39. Nothing Else Matters – Metallica (1992)
Nothing Else Matters – Metallica guitar tab
“Nothing Else Matters” represents a departure from Metallica’s traditional heavy metal sound, being one of their first ballads.
It features prominent clean guitar parts and introspective lyrics, focusing on themes of love, trust, and distance.
The song has been interpreted as a love letter from Hetfield to his then-girlfriend, expressing the sentiment that despite being on the road and far away from each other, “nothing else matters” as long as they have each other.
40. Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm – Crash Test Dummies (1993)
Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm – Crash Test Dummies guitar tab
The song is known for its distinctive, bass-baritone lead vocal by Brad Roberts and its unusual, thought-provoking lyrics.
Each verse tells a different story about a child experiencing an unsettling situation.
The chorus simply repeats the humming refrain, “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm.”
This refrain, combined with the unusual stories in the lyrics, led to the song becoming a memorable hit, despite — or perhaps because of — its unconventional nature.
The unique narrative style and Roberts’ deep voice have made “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm” a standout song in 90s alternative rock.
41. Jeremy – Pearl Jam (1991)
“Jeremy” is a notable song in Pearl Jam’s discography for its subject matter tackling teenage isolation and school violence.
Its intense, introspective lyrics and the moving performance by Vedder have made it one of Pearl Jam’s most popular and enduring songs.
It captures the band’s early grunge sound, and its exploration of dark, real-world issues resonated deeply with audiences.
It’s a powerful example of the band’s ability to merge hard-hitting rock music with poignant, thought-provoking lyrics.
42. Torn – Natalie Imbruglia (1997)
Torn – Natalie Imbruglia guitar tab
Not many people know this, but this song version is actually a cover.
The song was first recorded in 1993 by the Danish singer Lis Sørensen after it was translated into Danish, titled “Brændt” (Burned).
The original English version of the song was co-written by Scott Cutler, Anne Preven, and Phil Thornalley, and was first recorded by the alternative rock band Ednaswap in 1995.
Phil Thornalley produced Imbruglia’s version, and it became a worldwide hit.
Her rendition is a pop and alternative rock song with post-grunge influences, which received positive reviews.
It is often considered a 90s classic and remains one of Natalie Imbruglia’s most well-known songs.
43. All I Want – Toad The Wet Sprocket (1991)
All I Want – Toad The Wet Sprocket guitar tab
The song features a catchy, melodic chorus and lyrics that express a longing for connection and understanding.
It’s a classic example of early ’90s alternative rock, with its jangly guitars, earnest lyrics, and strong melodies.
Despite not being as well-known as some of their contemporaries, Toad the Wet Sprocket has retained a dedicated fanbase thanks to their solid songwriting and the emotive vocals of lead singer Glen Phillips.
“All I Want” remains one of their most beloved songs.
44. Push – Matchbox Twenty (1996)
Push – Matchbox Twenty guitar tab
“Push” is built around an infectious guitar riff and Thomas’s emotive vocals.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of emotional manipulation and control in relationships, which was a topic of some controversy upon its release.
Some listeners interpreted the lyrics as promoting emotional or physical abuse.
But Thomas clarified that the song was about feeling controlled by another person and the struggle to regain control over oneself.
Despite the initial controversy, “Push” became one of Matchbox Twenty’s biggest hits and is still regularly played on rock and pop radio stations.
45. My Own Worst Enemy – Lit (1999)
My Own Worst Enemy – Lit guitar tab
Musically, “My Own Worst Enemy” is characterized by its energetic and infectious pop-punk sound.
The guitar-driven intro immediately grabs the listener’s attention, setting the tone for the high-energy nature of the song.
The chorus of “My Own Worst Enemy” is particularly memorable and has become a sing-along anthem for many listeners.
Overall, “My Own Worst Enemy” by Lit is a spirited pop-punk song that encapsulates the energetic and introspective spirit of the 90s.
46. Killing Me Softly – The Fugees (1996)
Killing Me Softly – The Fugees guitar tab
The Fugees’ version of “Killing Me Softly” features lead vocals by Lauryn Hill, with Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel providing additional vocals.
They added their unique flavor to the song by infusing it with elements of hip-hop and R&B while still maintaining the soulful essence of the original.
The Fugees’ cover of “Killing Me Softly” is widely regarded as a classic and remains one of the most memorable and beloved songs of the 1990s.
It showcased the group’s talent for reimagining songs and helped solidify their place in music history.
47. Bitter Sweet Symphony – The Verve (1997)
Bitter Sweet Symphony – The Verve guitar tab
“Bitter Sweet Symphony” is characterized by its sweeping orchestral arrangement and catchy melody.
The combination of the powerful instrumentation and introspective lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making “Bitter Sweet Symphony” a beloved and enduring anthem.
48. Basket Case – Green Day (1994)
Basket Case – Green Day guitar tab
“Basket Case” is characterized by its fast-paced and catchy punk rock sound, featuring driving guitar riffs, energetic drumming, and passionate vocals.
The song’s relatable lyrics, infectious melody, and raw energy resonated with a wide audience and became one of Green Day’s breakthrough hits.
Over the years, “Basket Case” has remained one of Green Day’s most beloved and recognizable songs.
49. Everlong – Foo Fighters (1997)
Everlong – Foo Fighters guitar tab
“Everlong” is widely regarded as one of the Foo Fighters’ most popular and enduring songs.
It features a dynamic blend of alternative rock and post-grunge elements, powerful guitar riffs, energetic drumming, and Grohl’s emotive vocals.
The song seamlessly transitions between quiet verses and explosive choruses, creating a compelling musical journey.
50. November Rain – Guns N’ Roses (1992)
November Rain – Guns N’ Roses guitar tab
“November Rain” is known for its epic and grandiose nature, featuring a combination of rock, ballad, and orchestral elements.
The length of “November Rain,” clocking in at over eight minutes, showcases the band’s ability to create epic and ambitious compositions.
Lyrically, “November Rain” explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
The lyrics depict a complex and introspective narrative that touches upon relationships, heartbreak, and the acceptance of change.
51. Alive – Pearl Jam (1991)
“Alive” is characterized by its raw energy, powerful guitar riffs, and Vedder’s distinct and emotive vocals.
The song combines elements of grunge, alternative rock, and hard rock, which were defining genres of the Seattle music scene in the early 1990s.
The song’s intense and cathartic nature resonated with listeners, capturing the spirit of the grunge movement and connecting with a generation of music fans.
52. Black – Pearl Jam (1991)
The song’s acoustic guitar plays a crucial role in setting the melancholic and introspective atmosphere.
The gentle strumming and fingerpicking patterns provide a delicate backdrop for Eddie Vedder’s heartfelt vocals.
Stripped down to its core elements, the acoustic version of “Black” allows the raw emotions and intimate lyrics to take center stage.
The acoustic guitar adds a sense of vulnerability and intimacy to the performance, enhancing the emotional impact of the song.
53. Signe – Eric Clapton (1992)
Signe – Eric Clapton guitar tab
“Signe” is often used as the opening track for Clapton’s live performances, including his “Unplugged” concert and subsequent tours.
The song showcases his virtuosic guitar playing and sets the tone for the rest of the show.
54. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz (1998)
Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz guitar tab
“Lightning Crashes” features a distinctive and powerful acoustic guitar riff that serves as the backbone of the song.
The track combines elements of alternative rock and post-grunge, with emotionally charged lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
The track’s intensity builds throughout, leading to a memorable and anthemic chorus.
55. Plush – Stone Temple Pilots (1992)
Plush – Stone Temple Pilots guitar tab
“Plush” features a captivating blend of alternative rock, grunge, and hard rock influences.
The instrumentation, including the powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm section, adds to the song’s dynamic energy.
Lead vocalist Scott Weiland’s distinct and emotive vocals deliver the introspective lyrics of “Plush.”
The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection, with imagery that can be interpreted in different ways.
56. Santeria – Sublime (1996)
This song became one of Sublime’s most popular and recognizable tracks, showcasing their unique blend of reggae, punk, and ska influences.
“Santeria” features a catchy and laid-back groove with a prominent acoustic guitar riff throughout the song.
“Santeria” remains a fan favorite and a widely recognized hit from the 90s alternative rock and ska punk scene.
Its catchy melodies and reggae-infused sound have made it a timeless classic in Sublime’s discography.
57. Hey Jealousy – Gin Blossoms (1993)
Hey Jealousy – Gin Blossoms guitar tab
“Hey Jealousy” is one of the best 90s acoustic guitar songs.
It features a jangly and melodic guitar-driven sound, characteristic of the alternative rock and power pop genres.
The song’s catchy hooks and infectious chorus contribute to its widespread appeal.
The lyrics explore themes of longing, regret, and the complexities of relationships.
The song’s relatable and memorable qualities resonated with audiences, helping it reach high positions on various music charts.
58. To Be with You – Mr. Big (1991)
To Be with You – Mr. Big guitar tab
“To Be with You” by Mr. Big is another example of the best 90s acoustic guitar songs.
It’s a power ballad that showcases a blend of rock, pop, and acoustic elements.
The song features acoustic guitar strumming, a catchy melody, and harmonized vocals.
The song’s uplifting and memorable chorus became an anthem for love and resonated with listeners around the world.
Even years after its release, “To Be with You” remains a beloved classic and a staple in Mr. Big’s discography.
Its catchy hooks, acoustic-driven sound, and romantic sentiment continue to captivate audiences, making it an enduring ballad in rock music history.
59. Soul to Squeeze – Red Hot Chili Peppers (1991)
Soul to Squeeze – Red Hot Chili Peppers guitar tab
“Soul to Squeeze” features a mellow and melodic sound, showcasing the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ fusion of alternative rock, funk, and psychedelic influences.
The lyrics touch upon themes of longing, self-discovery, and finding inner strength.
The combination of the poignant lyrics and Kiedis’ dynamic vocal performance adds depth and emotional resonance to the song.
60. Love Song – The Cure (1989)
Love Song – The Cure guitar tab
“Love Song” by The Cure was released in 1989.
Although it predates the ’90s, it remains a beloved and influential song from the alternative rock genre in the 90s era.
If you’re on a hunt for a vintage guitar, check out this Taylor vintage acoustic guitar on Guitar Center:
Best 90s Acoustic Guitar Songs: Conclusion
The 1990s was a decade filled with an eclectic mix of musical styles and genres.
Amid the high energy of grunge, the swagger of Britpop, and the breakthrough of alternative rock, acoustic guitar songs found their own special place and made an impact that still reverberates today.
Many of these 90s acoustic guitar songs moved audiences with their raw and intimate sound, capturing listeners’ attention with stripped-down arrangements that highlighted the guitar’s beauty and the lyrics’ soulful expression.
From the folk-inspired melodies of Tracy Chapman to the introspective alternative tunes of Radiohead, these songs range across various styles, providing the perfect backdrop for both quiet introspection and shared understanding.
We hope this collection of some of the most popular 90s acoustic guitar songs has helped you find the next guitar song to learn!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these iconic tracks offer a wide range of styles and techniques to explore.
Did we miss a song that should be added to the list?
Let us know in the comments below!
