Netflix recently released That ‘90s Show as a continuation of the classic That ‘70s Show, which ran on Fox for eight seasons from 1998-2006.
The remake created the irony of a trip down memory lane for viewers who had already seen a trip down memory lane once with nostalgia for the 1970s. Appearances by Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Topher Grace, Wilmer Valderrama, and Laura Prepon and a fantastically reassembled set helped recapture the chemistry of the old cast.
That ‘70s Show succeeded with the ability to blend cultural references of the 1970s into the episode storylines. 1970s rock & roll became a go-to for the writers. Cameo appearances by legends like Alice Cooper and Roger Daltrey, consistent characterization based on recognizable bands and musicians, and episodes set at rock concerts helped viewers appreciate the glory of ‘70s rock all over again.
The creators of That ‘90s Show also looked to drop in their best music references to represent the 1990s. They added touches when the characters attended a rave in the fourth episode of the first season. The final episode paid tribute to a past era of rap music. Don Stark even sang Boyz II Men on karaoke in his short appearance as Bob Pinciotti.
However, their best music references came through tributes to 1990s rock & roll.
Gwen Introduced Singing "You Oughta Know" by Alanis Morissette
Gwen quickly becomes the main character Leia Forman’s best friend.
When Gwen first appears in “That ’90s Pilot,” Leia approaches her next-door neighbor who is screaming the words to “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette.
The angsty 1990s hit characterizes a rebellious teen. Even though the other characters notice that Gwen isn’t the slickest punk rocker, the persona fit her well during the first season.
Gwen also mentions interest in the “Riot Grrrl” craze of the 1990s on a few different occasions. Although she later admits her interest was only halfhearted, her characteristics add a great element of 1990s culture to the show.
The Ride in the Vista Cruiser- "The World I Know" by Collective Soul
While Leia and Jay take a ride in the Vista Cruiser, Eric’s old car, “The World I Know” by Collective Soul plays as the background music. Their date is one of the high points of the first season, and the creators of the show nailed it with the perfect song choice.
With another great contrast to 1970s rock, “Slow Ride” by Foghat plays in the background the first time the kids see the old car.
"No Rain" by Blin Melon
It wouldn’t have been a spinoff of That ’70s Show without recreating the circle. The main characters leave the basement in a particularly good mood and enjoy the nice weather while “No Rain” by Blind Melon plays.
"Cowboys From Hell" by Pantera
Nate takes almost the entire summer off from training for football in the fall. He realizes that he needs some intense workouts in the final days of summer to prepare.
When he needs some energy in the gym, he and Jay choose “Cowboys from Hell” by Pantera to get them going.
![Pantera - Cowboys From Hell (Official Music Video) [4K Remaster]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/i97OkCXwotE/mqdefault.jpg)
