10 Rock Bands That Defined The 2000's
2. Green Day
Green Day hit a rough patch at the turn of the century. Their creative left turn into folk music with 2001's Warning left many fans cold. Many jumped off the bandwagon, finding refuge in bands like Simple Plan or Good Charlotte. But the band were on the cusp of something brilliant.
With their next record American Idiot, the band exploded into the mainstream for a second time with a vehement attack on 2000's American politics. Songs like the title track, "Wake Me Up When September Ends," and "Holiday" were huge singles that brought rock out of the doldrums. While the band's followup 21st Century Breakdown was not as successful, it still had gems that fans were all too eager to latch onto.
The most important part of Green Day's second act has to do more with context. Other bands on this list may have more complex themes in their lyrics and may be more technically proficient behind their instruments. But Green Day was the band that reinvigorated the genre for young kids.
It's what made me and so many others love rock and roll. And that's something you never forget.