If Weezer's crowning achievement in '95 was proving that power pop was far from dead, then No Doubt's biggest triumph was resurrecting new wave. By mixing the long-dormant genre with a dash of punk and a dollop of ska, No Doubt became a singular representation of the mid-90s. Gwen Stefani was growing into a superstar in her own right, with the media ready to christen her the next Debbie Harry, while her band was busy crafting some of the most memorable songs of the entire decade. Tragic Kingdom was a friendly reminder that, during an era increasingly populated by knock-offs and posers, bands didn't have to compromise their artistic integrity to become a commercial success. They were able to retain their bouncy, funky soul while expanding the boundaries of the genre that they became figureheads for. Although "Don't Speak" might be the least representative song off the world-conquering Tragic Kingdom, no song better exemplifies the mood of that time. The ultimate awkward break-up song--Gwen sings about the heartbreak her ex-boyfriend put her through...while her ex-boyfriend is playing bass guitar in the background--"Don't Speak" paved the way for lighter pop-rock to shine through. We were waving goodbye to the grim, somber first half of the decade and moving onto something a little more sentimental. Honorable Mentions: Smashing Pumpkins - "Tonight, Tonight," Sheryl Crow - "If It Makes You Happy," Everclear - "Santa Monica," Dave Matthews Band - "Crash Into Me"
