Swedish group Ace of Base dominated 1994 with “The Sign,” a ridiculously catchy pop anthem that lit up radio charts worldwide. With its bouncy reggae-pop rhythm and bright synth melody, the song chronicles the realization of a love’s end (“I saw the sign, and it opened up my eyes”) yet it sounds utterly joyous. “The Sign” hit #1 in the US for six weeks (Billboard’s top song of 1994) and topped charts across Europe, cementing Ace of Base as heirs to ABBA’s pop crown. The track’s bright, upbeat vibe made it a ’90s radio staple and an instant mood-lifter. Even decades later, throw “The Sign” on and watch everyone in the room light up and sing along — it’s that kind of timeless pop magic.
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