Remember the golden era of AOL, pogs, and MTV’s TRL (Total Request Live)? Whether you’re a true 90s kid or just love immersing yourself in musical history, Rob Harvilla’s “60 Songs That Explain the 90s” is must-read. Immerse yourself in the pages of this book to relive the iconic mosh pits, powerful ballads, and unforgettable boy band sounds that defined the 90s.
Based on Harvilla’s podcast of the same name, the book isn’t a mere transcription but a rich discussion of iconic 90s songs, infused with cultural context from the author’s personal experiences growing up in that era. From grunge anthems like Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” to Tupac’s “California Love,” Harvilla covers a diverse range of artists that likely once graced your CD collection.
What sets this book apart is its intimate tone, making the author feel like your best friend reminiscing about the 90s while you load up your 6 CD changer with the era’s greatest hits. The songs aren’t presented in a strict chronological order, a departure some readers may find challenging if seeking specific genres. Instead, Harvilla cleverly groups songs thematically, creating chapters resembling literary tropes such as “Chaos Agents,” “Villains + Adversaries,” and “Romance + Sex + Immaturity.” Each chapter begins with a list of songs fitting the category, setting the stage for Harvilla’s personal storytelling.
In a time marked by a fusion of trends and genres, the 90s defy easy categorization. Harvilla uses his personal experiences to connect the dots between a variety of songs, providing a refreshing perspective. Ultimately, the book delivers insightful observations and a potent dose of 90s nostalgia that lingers long after the final page.
So, dust off your favorite 90s playlist, grab a copy, and get ready to relive (or discover) the music that defined a generation. As a bonus, if you’re curious about Rob’s podcast, he’s wrapping it up this month aiming to conclude the series with a total of 120 songs from the 90s. Don’t miss out – you can find the 90s music podcast here.
