7 90s Movie Soundtracks That Were Better Than the Movies

The 90s delivered some unforgettable movie soundtracks that ended up being more memorable than the films themselves. Here are seven soundtracks that left a lasting impression, even though the movies they were created for faded into the background.

1. Batman Forever (1995) – “Kiss from a Rose” by Seal

While Batman Forever struggled with its uneven tone, the soundtrack soared, especially with Seal’s “Kiss from a Rose.” The song became a worldwide hit, far outlasting the movie’s popularity. While the film’s over-the-top performances were divisive, the haunting ballad by Seal continues to resonate today.

The success of the soundtrack showed that sometimes the music leaves a far bigger mark than the movie, with “Kiss from a Rose” receiving critical acclaim long after the film’s neon aesthetic faded away.

Honorable mention: “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me” by U2 – a rock anthem that also rose above the film’s reception.

2. Romeo + Juliet (1996) – “Lovefool” by The Cardigans

Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet polarized audiences with its flashy, modern take on Shakespeare, but the soundtrack was a smash hit. The Cardigans’ “Lovefool” became one of the most iconic songs of the decade, with its catchy melody perfectly capturing the youthful spirit of the film.

The soundtrack, which also featured Radiohead and Garbage, created a mood that outshone the film’s chaotic visuals. “Lovefool” in particular became synonymous with the 90s, far eclipsing the movie’s long-term impact.

Honorable mention: “Young Hearts Run Free” by Kym Mazelle – a lively disco cover that stood out on the soundtrack.

3. Space Jam (1996) – “Fly Like an Eagle” by Seal

While Space Jam entertained with its cartoonish fun, Seal’s cover of “Fly Like an Eagle” brought a smooth, rock-infused vibe to the soundtrack. The song stood out as a memorable highlight, blending perfectly with the film’s energetic and fantastical elements, and remains a standout track.

Though the movie has its nostalgic appeal, “Fly Like an Eagle” became a song that outshone the film’s plot, adding a rock edge to an otherwise pop-filled soundtrack.

Honorable mention: “Hit ‘Em High (The Monstars’ Anthem)” by B-Real, Coolio, Method Man, LL Cool J, and Busta Rhymes – a hip-hop collaboration that added another memorable layer to the soundtrack.

4. The Bodyguard (1992) – “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Though The Bodyguard was a box office hit, it’s Whitney Houston’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You” that stole the show. The powerful ballad became one of the best-selling singles of all time, forever tied to the movie, though many have forgotten the film’s actual plot.

Houston’s emotional performance in the song eclipsed the movie itself, making The Bodyguard more remembered for its soundtrack than anything else. “I Will Always Love You” remains a defining moment in 90s music.

5. Reality Bites (1994) – “Stay (I Missed You)” by Lisa Loeb

Reality Bites aimed to capture the angst of Generation X, but it’s Lisa Loeb’s “Stay (I Missed You)” that truly resonated with listeners. The song topped the charts, while the film’s disjointed narrative left some viewers unimpressed.

Loeb’s heartfelt lyrics gave the film a sense of emotional depth that it sometimes lacked. Even people who never saw Reality Bites can still recognize the timeless charm of “Stay.”

6. Armageddon (1998) – “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith

Though Armageddon was a blockbuster, its explosive action sequences didn’t make as lasting an impact as Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” The emotional ballad played a major role in cementing the film’s popularity and has remained a staple of romantic playlists ever since.

While the movie was loud and over-the-top, the song brought a tenderness that balanced the chaos. It became one of Aerosmith’s biggest hits, defining the film more than any asteroid destruction scenes.

Honorable mention: “La Grange” by ZZ Top – a classic rock song that added a southern flavor to the film.

7. City of Angels (1998) – “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls

Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan’s romance in City of Angels was hit or miss for many viewers, but Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris” became the standout feature. The song became a massive hit, overshadowing the film and becoming a 90s anthem.

“Iris” captured the longing and emotion the film attempted to portray, making the song far more impactful than the movie itself. To this day, “Iris” is remembered as a defining moment of 90s rock ballads.