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.
