Top 10 Alt-Rock Videos From 1994

The former Smiths frontman's biggest solo hit comes from his fourth album, 'Vauxhall and I.' The song spent seven weeks on top of the modern-rock chart in 1994, one week more than 1992's No. 1 'Tomorrow,' which, frankly, we like better.

This California band took its name from a Monty Python sketch and borrowed a lot from R.E.M.'s playbook early in its career. They strengthened their sound a bit on 1994's 'Dulcinea' album. 'Fall Down' was their only No. 1 hit, staying at the top for five weeks.

Everyone was rocking a little harder in 1994, including this Irish band that plugged in and rocked out on the great 'Zombie.' It paid off for them: It was their first No. 1 and their biggest modern-rock hit. ('Salvation' also reached the top two years later.)

People are still trying to figure out what's up with Beck. But back in 1994, when he dropped his first single, everyone was totally baffled by him. Was he a rapper? A folkie? A brain-damaged indie rocker? Or just a weirdo with two turntables and a microphone?

Of all the modern-rock bands that were huge in 1994, none topped Green Day. Their major-label debut, 'Dookie,' became an instant classic, with five of its single racing to the top of the charts. 'Basket Case' was the second, and their second No. 1.

R.E.M. stashed away the mandolins and 12-string guitars for 'Monster,' a kick-ass rock 'n' roll album that was louder and more intense than anything they ever recorded. The first single has a fabulous backstory (Google it) and an awesome riff.

Speaking of selling the drama, these Pennsylvania rockers really knew how to push it. Ed Kowalczyk sang every line like his very life depended on it. They managed to place three songs at No. 1 in the '90s. 'Selling the Drama,' from their breakthrough album 'Throwing Copper,' was the first.

R.E.M. loved their guitars in 1994, and their fans apparently loved them too. The second single from 'Monster,' like the first, reached No. 1. It stayed there for three weeks. It's also the last time the band would reach that spot on the modern-rock chart.

Amos' 1992 album 'Little Earthquakes' is a much better record, but its followup, 'Under the Pink,' was a huger hit with alt-rock fans. Its first single, 'God,' reached the No. 1 spot for two weeks in 1994. It would be Amos' first and only trip to the top.

These SoCal rockers defined a certain segment of '90s alternative rock. They were kinda smart and kinda goofy, and they held on to a punk ethos that dated back to the early '80s. 'Come Out and Play' was their first single, a breakthrough No. 1 hit.