The ’90s on TikTok: A Generational Echo

The current TikTok trend centers around the Goo Goo Dolls’ 1998 hit, “Iris,” a song deeply embedded in the cultural consciousness of those who came of age in the late 1990s. The song’s melancholic melody and relatable lyrics have provided the perfect soundtrack for users to reflect on their childhoods, sharing photos and videos that evoke a sense of simpler times – a period often associated with the rise of the internet, the popularity of shows like Friends, and a distinct aesthetic.

SZA’s participation highlights the trend’s broad appeal, transcending generational boundaries. The singer, known for her introspective lyrics and genre-bending sound, offered a unique interpretation of “Iris,” creating a “deep fried” remix that accompanied a heartwarming compilation of her own childhood photos.

SZA’s Personal Take: From Snorkeling Gear to Sunday Best

In a recent Instagram post, SZA shared a video featuring a present-day glimpse of herself enjoying a sunny day on a boat. Interspersed with this contemporary scene were a series of adorable vintage photographs showcasing her younger years. The images depicted SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe, in various stages of childhood – from snorkeling adventures and sporting a cowboy hat to a hospital visit as a baby and posing in her Sunday best. The video was set to her reimagined version of “Iris,” which she described as a product of being “cooked” by the trend.

“Trend had me so cooked I couldn’t stop singing it so I made my own deep fried goo goo doll tease,” SZA wrote in the caption, demonstrating her playful engagement with the viral phenomenon.

The post quickly garnered attention from fellow artists and celebrities. The Goo Goo Dolls themselves responded with three heart emojis, while Erykah Badu showered the post with six cherry emojis. Actor Lakeith Stanfield expressed his approval with a fire emoji, and Chloe Bailey playfully commented, “the prettiest baby.”

But what is it about this particular song and era that resonates so strongly with people now? Is it simply nostalgia, or does “Iris” tap into a deeper longing for a time perceived as less complicated and more authentic?

A Star-Studded Lineup Embraces the Past

SZA is far from the only celebrity to participate in the ‘90s TikTok trend. A growing list of stars have shared their own childhood memories set to “Iris,” including Courtney Cox, Drew Barrymore, Usher, Mya, Ginuwine, Monica, Lil Kim, Jared Leto of 30 Seconds to Mars, Halle Berry, and Ricky Bell of New Edition. This widespread participation underscores the song’s enduring appeal and the collective desire to revisit and share personal histories.

The trend’s success also speaks to the power of TikTok as a platform for cultural connection and shared experiences. By providing a simple yet effective framework for storytelling, TikTok has enabled users to tap into universal themes of nostalgia, identity, and belonging.

What other songs from the ’90s do you think would be perfect for a similar TikTok trend? And how do these online trends shape our understanding of the past?

Frequently Asked Questions About the ’90s TikTok Trend