9 Forgettable ’90s Band Reunions That Didn’t Work Out

The ’90s brought iconic bands to the forefront, but not all reunions recaptured the magic. Some groups tried to reignite their spark but left fans unimpressed. Whether due to lackluster performances or internal tensions, these reunions quickly fizzled out, leaving audiences longing for their earlier glory days.

1. Guns N’ Roses (1999)

The late ’90s reunion of Guns N’ Roses was more of a partial reformation. Axl Rose assembled a new lineup while key members like Slash and Duff McKagan stayed away. Fans struggled to connect with the unfamiliar roster. Concert cancellations and delays further dimmed the excitement around their return.

2. Smashing Pumpkins (1998)

Smashing Pumpkins’ first reunion felt rushed and uninspired. Although Billy Corgan led the charge, the chemistry wasn’t the same without the original lineup. Their performances lacked energy, and the new material fell short of expectations. Fans found it hard to embrace a band that no longer felt cohesive.

3. Van Halen (1996)

Van Halen’s attempt to reunite with David Lee Roth in 1996 ended in disappointment. The band’s MTV Video Music Awards appearance hinted at reconciliation, but internal drama resurfaced almost immediately. Roth and the rest of the group clashed, leaving fans confused and the reunion short-lived.

4. The Pixies (1997)

The Pixies’ mid-’90s reunion lacked the spark of their earlier days. Frank Black and Kim Deal’s strained relationship overshadowed the music. While their live shows attracted attention, the tension between members was evident. Audiences felt they were watching a band going through the motions rather than rekindling old magic.

5. Black Sabbath (1997)

Black Sabbath’s reunion with Ozzy Osbourne had moments of promise but ultimately struggled to deliver consistency. While fans were thrilled to see the original lineup, conflicting schedules and health issues plagued their efforts. Performances often felt uneven, leaving many wondering if the reunion had been rushed.

6. The Sex Pistols (1996)

When the Sex Pistols reunited for their “Filthy Lucre” tour, it felt more like a cash grab than a genuine return. The punk spirit that once defined them seemed diluted, and fans noticed. While some appreciated the nostalgia, others criticized the band for going against their original anti-establishment ethos.

7. Hole (1999)

Courtney Love’s attempt to revive Hole in 1999 didn’t go as planned. The new lineup lacked the edge of the original, and fans weren’t impressed with the revamped sound. Internal conflicts and erratic performances made it hard for audiences to connect with this version of the band.

8. Creedence Clearwater Revisited (1995)

Two former members of Creedence Clearwater Revival formed Creedence Clearwater Revisited in the mid-’90s, but it wasn’t the same without John Fogerty. While they played familiar hits, the absence of their iconic frontman left fans feeling unsatisfied. It seemed more like a tribute act than a true reunion.

9. The Eagles (1994)

The Eagles’ “Hell Freezes Over” tour marked their return, but some felt the reunion lacked authenticity. The band’s chemistry wasn’t what it had been during their prime. High ticket prices and a focus on commercial success over artistic connection made the comeback feel more calculated than heartfelt.