Do you ever find yourself reminiscing about the glory days of the 1990s? The 90s was an era marked by iconic fashion, unforgettable pop culture, and a unique sense of nostalgia. If you’re planning a birthday celebration and want to infuse it with some retro charm, a 90s themed party might be the perfect choice.
If you’re planning a 90s themed birthday party, it’s essential to get the music just right because it was the soundtrack to an entire generation. In this blog, Encore Musicians will delve into the world of 90s music and show you how to infuse it into every aspect of your birthday celebration for an unforgettable, nostalgia-filled bash.
Dress the Part
No 90s party would be complete without the right attire. Encourage your guests to embrace the fashion trends of the decade. Think baggy jeans, flannel shirts, crop tops, platform sneakers, and scrunchies. Bonus points for anyone who shows up in a choker necklace or a fanny pack!
DIY Decor
Set the mood with decorations that scream “1990s.” Think neon colours, Lisa Frank-inspired designs, and lots of geometric shapes. Hang up posters of your favourite 90s heartthrobs, and consider creating a DIY photo booth area with props like slap bracelets, inflatable furniture, and Tamagotchis for added nostalgia.
The Perfect 90s Playlist
Start by creating a playlist that encapsulates the essence of the 90s. This decade was a melting pot of musical genres, so include a mix of grunge, alternative rock, hip-hop, R&B, and pop hits. Here are some quintessential tracks to consider:
- Spice Girls – “Wannabe”
2. Backstreet Boys – “I Want It That Way”
3. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
4. TLC – “Waterfalls”
5. Britney Spears – “Baby One More Time”
6. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
7. No Doubt – “Don’t Speak”
8. Will Smith – “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It”
9. MC Hammer – “U Can’t Touch This”
10. R.E.M. – “Losing My Religion”
Karaoke
Turn your party into a karaoke showdown with a selection of classic 90s songs. Set up a karaoke machine or use karaoke apps and encourage your guests to sing their hearts out. Spice Girls’ “Say You’ll Be There” or Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” are perfect for showcasing vocal talent.
Live Music or Tribute Act
For a truly unforgettable musical experience, consider hiring a live band or tribute act specializing in 90s music. Watching a band cover songs from iconic 90s bands like Pearl Jam, Nirvana, or the Spice Girls will transport your guests back in time.
Encore recommends 90s tribute band, RETRO-90s, one of the UK’s most popular 90s-themed bands with events, festivals and concerts throughout the UK.
Dance-Off and Iconic Moves
Remember the dance moves from the 90s? Host a dance-off featuring classic choreography from popular music videos. Think about the Macarena, the Running Man, or the Spice Girls’ zig-a-zig-ah. Invite your guests to strut their stuff on the dance floor, and award prizes for the best dance moves.
Music Trivia Challenge
Test your guests’ knowledge of 90s music with a trivia game. Prepare questions about 90s artists, albums, and lyrics. The winner can receive a 90s-themed prize or a mixtape of their favourite 90s songs.
Conclusion
Music is the heartbeat of any 90s themed birthday party. With the right playlist, karaoke fun, dance-offs, and tributes, you can transport your guests back to the era of scrunchies, baggy jeans, and unforgettable melodies. So, dust off your Discman, get ready to bust a move, and let the music of the 90s create the soundtrack to your epic celebration. It’s time to party like it’s 1999!
Check out our amazing 117 90s tribute bands here.