The music of 1995 captured this sense of change and excitement. Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” became one of the decade’s biggest-selling singles, its raw honesty and haunting sound striking a chord across the globe. On a more homegrown note, South Africa’s very own Johnny Clegg continued to captivate audiences with his album Heat, Dust and Dreams, weaving together stories that resonated both locally and internationally. And then, of course, Oasis, Madonna, Mariah Carey and The Rembrandts gave us some of the timeless classics that still dominate playlists today.

In Hollywood, Tom Hanks cemented his place in movie history by winning his second consecutive Oscar for Forrest Gump. His back-to-back victories were a rarity in the industry, proving his ability to capture hearts through unforgettable performances. On the small screen, television was entering a golden age. NBC’s “Must-See TV” lineup, led by Friends and ER, became a weekly ritual for millions — with Ross, Rachel, and George Clooney firmly establishing themselves as household names.

Technology was leaping forward too. The very first version of Internet Explorer was launched, opening up a new way for millions to access the World Wide Web. At the same time, Sony introduced the PlayStation to the U.S. and Europe — a console that would revolutionise home gaming and shape the future of entertainment.

Did You Know?
The Rugby World Cup final in Johannesburg drew a worldwide audience of over 1 billion people — meaning South Africa’s moment of glory was being watched in living rooms from New York to New Delhi.

1995 was more than just a year; it was a turning point in sport, technology, music, and entertainment. And this week, we’re reliving every chart-topping anthem that made it so special.