Best 90s Cover Bands in California

Find California’s best 90s tribute acts, rocking everything from grunge to pop hits with nonstop throwback energy.

Saved by the 90s

For more than a decade, Saved by the 90s has stood as the longest-running 90s tribute act in America, proving that nostalgia never goes out of style. What began in 2010 with founders Nat Esten, Danny Finerman, and Alex Rossiter quickly grew beyond a local project into a cultural phenomenon. Their ability to keep audiences coming back year after year shows the staying power of both the decade’s music and the band’s magnetic approach to performance. In 2016, powerhouse vocalist Emily Afton joined the lineup, adding Broadway-trained strength that elevated every chorus. Her dynamic stage presence gave the band an edge, helping them not only preserve but amplify the magic of the 90s for new generations of fans. Together, the ensemble has created a formula that keeps their shows fresh while staying true to the era.

With multiple lineups spread across the country, Saved by the 90s can deliver their signature show to any corner of the United States. Their setlist is a musical scrapbook of the decade, spanning everything from Alanis Morissette’s angst-filled ballads to the Spice Girls’ pop anthems, Blink-182’s punchy humor, and Third Eye Blind’s unforgettable hooks.Having shared stages with Coolio, AJ McLean, and Aaron Carter, they’ve solidified their reputation as the ultimate 90s act. While new tribute groups appear constantly, Saved by the 90s continues to lead the way, offering a living legacy that proves the music of the 90s still ignites hearts and dance floors. Learn more at https://savedbythe90s.com/

Paging the 90s

Paging the 90s is San Diego’s raddest 90s party band, built to bring back the decade’s best hits across grunge, pop, and alt-rock. The band is fronted by Matt Previdi and Megan Mattix on vocals, whose harmonies and stage chemistry drive the show. Guitar work is handled by Rob Beruman and Konstantin Grodsky, layering riffs and hooks that span from Weezer to Stone Temple Pilots. Holding down the rhythm, David Votel plays bass and adds vocals, while Erich Flessner powers the beat on drums. Their setlist is a time capsule of the 90s, featuring everything from Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera to Third Eye Blind, Cake, and Shania Twain. Known for high-energy performances, they’ve played events like OB Oktoberfest and festivals throughout Southern California. Paging the 90s isn’t just a cover band—they’re a full-scale 90s experience. Find them at https://www.pagingthe90s.com/

90s Rockshow

90s Rockshow is a one-of-a-kind tribute that reimagines the decade’s biggest hits with both a full rock band and a live string section. The core lineup features Seth Romano on lead vocals and guitar, Jimmy Keegan on drums, Erik Johnson on guitar, Steve Fazio on guitar, and Jennifer Jo Oberle adding vocals and support. They are joined by a quartet of classically trained musicians including Kaitlin Wolfberg and Eliza James on violins, Emily Elkin on viola or cello, and Corinne Olsen on viola or cello, creating a lush orchestral backdrop to the raw energy of grunge and alternative. Their setlist spans Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day, No Doubt, Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins, and Alanis Morissette, transforming familiar anthems into immersive live experiences. Based in Southern California, 90s Rockshow has built its reputation on high-energy concerts that combine the edge of rock with the elegance of strings, making them a standout choice for festivals, theaters, and private events alike. Check them out at https://90srockshow.com/

Flannel

Flannel is a Bay Area powerhouse dedicated to keeping the raw energy and nostalgia of ’90s rock alive. Co-founders Chris (bass) and Lauren Devine (vocals, rhythm guitar) anchor the band with thunderous grooves and charismatic stage presence, while Drew (drums) drives the pulse with rhythms honed through decades of performance across tribute acts and original projects. Gil Friedman (keys, synth) elevates the sound with rich textures and arrangements, adding depth drawn from his classical training and wide-ranging experience. Lead guitar virtuoso Idan Zuckerman channels the spirit of Seattle’s grunge and alt-rock greats, delivering riffs that ignite the crowd. Sharing the spotlight on vocals, Greg Michael brings fresh energy with a dynamic style that recalls Pearl Jam and Rage Against the Machine. Together, Flannel blends passion, precision, and a love for the decade’s music into performances that resonate with audiences across the Bay Area, offering fans an electrifying trip back to the glory days of the ’90s. Find them at https://flannel90sband.com/

The Trip

The Trip is a Southern California powerhouse cover band delivering an electrifying mix of 90s favorites alongside hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and today. The lineup features Steve Bonino on bass and vocals, Jimmy Keegan on drums, programming, and vocals, Erik Johnson on guitar and vocals, Dennis Atlas on keys, guitar, and vocals, and Seth Romano as lead vocalist. Known for their high-energy performances, The Trip has been recognized as the most booked cover band in Southern California and was voted “Best Cover Band” by CBS. Their polished shows have entertained audiences for major clients including Microsoft, Disney, Lucasfilm, IBM, Sony Pictures, Budweiser, and even stars like Toby Keith and Michael Anthony of Van Halen. With a setlist packed full of crowd-pleasing anthems, The Trip isn’t just a band—they’re a complete entertainment experience, offering everything from solo acoustic performances to DJ services and full stage production. Find them at https://tripband.com/

That 90s Band

With a decade-long history rooted in friendship and passion, That ’90s Band has become one of Indianapolis’s premier tributes to the decade of grunge and alternative rock. The group was born in 2012 when Brian Smith launched the idea with Jon Lauman, soon joined by guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Neil Forker, bassist Christopher Trueblood, and guitarist-vocalist Mike Fultz. After evolving lineups and years of live shows, the addition of frontman Jake Resler in 2021 gave the band a commanding lead voice, supported by the hard-hitting drumming of Ryan Grinstead. Their sets dive deep into the 90s catalogue, pulling fans into the raw emotion of Nirvana, the heaviness of Alice in Chains, and the radio-ready punch of Everclear, who they once opened for in 2015. Whether in a packed venue or festival stage, That ’90s Band captures the essence of the era and turns every performance into a celebration of one of music’s most influential decades. Check them out at https://www.that90sband.com/

Unwarranted

Unwarranted is a Northern California cover band that brings the energy of 80s and 90s hair metal to life with over four hours of anthems from Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Poison, Guns N’ Roses, Van Halen, and more. The lineup features Sebastian Rawk on lead vocals, Rusty Riffs on guitar and backup vocals, Kidd Ripper on guitar and backup vocals, Jimmy Wylde on bass and backup vocals, and Tommy Stixx on drums. Their shows are high-octane events filled with blazing guitar solos, soaring vocals, and pounding rhythms, transporting audiences back to the glory days of arena rock. Known for their larger-than-life stage presence and crowd interaction, Unwarranted has become a staple of the Sacramento and Roseville live music scene. Find them at https://www.unwarrantedband.com/

Fire Peach

Fire Peach is a high-energy 90s rock cover band based in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for electrifying shows packed with the biggest hits of the decade. The lineup features Robert Atkinson on bass and vocals, Neal Engelhaupt on guitar and vocals, Fredrik Foresman on guitar and vocals, and Dennis Willoner on drums. Since forming in 2015, they have become a staple of the Bay Area music scene, performing at popular venues such as Meenar Music Club, Bruno’s Bar & Grill in Scotts Valley, and Sam’s Chowder House in Half Moon Bay, as well as countless private events. With multiple vocalists sharing the spotlight, Fire Peach delivers authentic renditions of grunge, alternative, and rock favorites that defined the 90s era. Whether on stage at a packed club or ringing in New Year’s Eve, Fire Peach keeps crowds singing and dancing all night long. Check them out at https://firepeachmusic.com/

My So-Called Band

My So-Called Band has been bringing 90s nostalgia back to life for audiences across the U.S., blending grunge, pop, hip-hop, and alt-rock into a high-energy show. Based in Nashville, their lineup has featured Sam Smith on drums, Dave Paulson and Joshua Watson on guitars, Keith Lowen on bass, and Dan Sommers on keyboards, with a rotating cast of powerhouse vocalists including Larissa Maestro, Kristin Weber, Amanda Broadway, Mikala “Mak” Jones, Aaron Robinson, Sean Williams, and Matt Friction. Known for selling out Nashville clubs like Mercy Lounge and The 5 Spot, they recreate everything from Alanis Morissette’s raw emotion to Nirvana’s grit and TLC’s smooth grooves. A West Coast edition based in the Bay Area includes Scott on lead vocals and Hooman on guitar, delivering faithful renditions of bands like Radiohead, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam. Whether in Oklahoma, California, or Tennessee, My So-Called Band has become a traveling time machine for those who want to relive the mixtape magic of the 90s. Find them at https://www.mysocalledbandok.com/

Boombox Heroes

Boombox Heroes is a high-energy Los Angeles-based cover band that blends 90s hits with other party anthems, delivering a full concert experience complete with dazzling costumes and interactive performances. Founded by Louise Van Veenendaal (lead vocals), a finalist on The Voice Australia, the group features rotating male and female vocalists backed by seasoned session players who have performed with the likes of Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Elton John. While the lineup is flexible, typically ranging from four to twelve members, it always includes a driving rhythm section of guitar, bass, and drums, with keys and horns added for bigger shows. The band is known for themed sets such as “80s vs. 90s” or “Backstreet Boys vs. Britney,” making every performance unique and tailored to the event. With appearances at venues like the House of Blues and major private events across California, Las Vegas, and beyond, Boombox Heroes has established itself as one of the premier party bands of its kind, turning every stage into a throwback dance floor. Check them at https://www.boomboxheroes.com/

90s Kids Superfly Tribute

With 90s Kids Superfly Tribute, every show is a flashback to the decade that gave us flannel, pop idols, and hip hop grooves. Guitarist Paul Miller not only shares lead vocals with Shannon Remley but also drives the rhythm with his playing, while Shannon’s voice soars with the power and edge of 90s radio. G K brings the crunch and fire on lead guitar, capturing the raw tones of bands like Smashing Pumpkins and Foo Fighters. Bassist Logan Hendley adds depth to the sound with grooving lines and smooth harmonies, locked in perfectly with Mike Graci’s precise and powerful drumming. Dave Lickert rounds out the lineup with keyboards and synths that mirror the polished textures of 90s pop and dance. Their setlist covers the full spectrum—Nirvana’s grit, Britney Spears’ sparkle, TLC’s swagger, and No Doubt’s infectious hooks. While not based in California, the band frequently plays there and is always eager to bring their high-energy show to festivals, parties, and private events across the state. More than music, 90s Kids Superfly Tribute delivers a nostalgia-packed performance that makes the 90s feel brand new again.

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