Alanis Morissette’s 4 Highest-Charting Songs Ranked

When people think of classic rock, certain bands rush to mind. Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Heart, Pink Floyd, Eagles and others. But now that enough time has passed, the 1990s are also part of the ever-growing genre. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, of course. But one person who isn’t mentioned enough is Alanis Morissette.

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She was ubiquitous in the 1990s. A force in rock and roll. And here below, we wanted to explore the artist’s four highest-charting songs on the Billboard Hot 100. Indeed, these are Alanis Morissette’s four highest-charting songs ranked.

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4. “Hands Clean” from Under Rug Swept (2002)

This song, which peaked at No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, features Morissette singing over an acoustic guitar before a big drum beat kicks in. On the track, she seemingly sings lines that were told to her, perhaps from another man. Many believe the song is about a much older man who took advantage of Morissette when she was very young. It’s a tough listen today due to its subject matter.

3. “Thank U” from Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie (1998)

This song, which hit No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrates the pure power of Morissette’s voice. Always willing to talk about her most vulnerable moments, the artist sings about her insecurities, from taking antibiotics to eating issues. And speaking of being vulnerable, the music video features a completely naked Morissette singing amongst strangers. The chorus of gratitude is very catchy and shows just how rich and dynamic her voice is.

2. “Ironic” from Jagged Little Pill (1995)

This song, which hit No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, is likely Morissette’s most famous. It’s also the most parodied for its cute car music video. Some have debated whether the scenarios the singer presents in the song are actually ironic but aside from that, Morissette had people using and referencing the word like it was going out of style in the 1990s!

1. “You Learn/You Oughta Know” from Jagged Little Pill (1995)

Together, these two tracks, which were credited as one release, hit No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. “You Oughta Know” was a minor hit when it was first released. But in the fall of 1996, Morissette released a live version of the song with the single “You Learn,” and together that release jumped to No. 6. However you slice it, these songs are iconic. Morissette belts the acerbic lyrics and gives voice to the imperfect yet passionate person of the late 20th century.

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