Y
1998

1998 in British Music

The post-Britpop comedown, UK garage ascends, and Robbie goes solo.

Key Events

  • Robbie Williams launches solo career with Angels — becomes Britain's biggest male star
  • Fatboy Slim and The Chemical Brothers take big beat global
  • UK garage crosses over: double-time beats and MCs storm the charts

Dominant Genres

PopUK GarageBig BeatRock

Notable Trends

  • The end of Britpop creates space for pop's resurgence
  • Big beat gives dance music a rock energy
  • Pirate radio culture continues to drive UK innovation

Key Artists of 1998

199719981999