Only Blink 182 Defines Pop Punk

When it comes to dominance in the pop punk genre of the music scene both in the United States and abroad, Blink 182 is one of the bands on top of the heap of would-be posers. One might say that the band’s name will be mentioned in the blink of an eye whenever the subject of pop punk is mentioned in music industry circles and among music merch sellers.

Blink 182 is so much on top of its genre that the group is generally regarded as a major influential force that has shaped the music of countless other bands. The numerous recognitions that the group has received are proof of their enduring influence.

Excellent Discography

At present, Blink 182 has five studio albums, four video albums and one compilation and live album each, with a total of 21 singles and 3 extended plays. Cheshire Cat was the debut album released in 1994, the year the band was formed. It was not successful although it was the start of fame for the band and its music. Dude Ranch, which was released in 1997, attained moderate success.

Enema of the State marked the highlight of the band’s career since the album reached top ten of the Billboard 200. “All the Small Things” is one of the band’s more popular songs and reached number one in the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart.

Blink 182 was eventually able to release a US number one album, Take Off Your Pants. To date, only this album has occupied top spot. The eponymous Blink 182 album was only number three in the Billboard 200. Although it never went over the third rank, it is still considered the band’s most definitive release.

Album number six is said to be in the works for a 2010 release. After having sold 25 million album copies around the world, it is reasonable to say that music fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate this new work to be added to the Blink 182 discography.

Outstanding Compositions

Except for Scott Raynor, who was the drummer and percussionist of the band from 1992 to 1998 and was subsequently replaced by Travis Barker, the other two band members remained the same since 1992. These were Mark Hoppus on lead vocals and bass as well as Tom DeLonge on lead vocals and guitar; both were songwriters for Blink 182.

This tight-knit professional and personal relationship, which has spanned more than a decade, has resulted in numerous awards and nominations for Blink 182. Just to name a few of these recognitions:

• Teen Choice Awards – Choice Rock Group (2000), Best Rock Group (2001) and Choice Love Song (2004) for “I Miss You”
• MTV Video Music Awards – Best Group Video (2000) for “All the Small Things” in addition to other nominations for Video of the Year and best Pop Video
• MTV Europe- Best New Act (2000) and Best Rock Act (2001)

Although the music of Blink 182 has been variously described as pop punk, punk rock, punk revival and skate punk, one thing is not in question. Its music is as relevant today as it was more than a decade ago in terms of teen angst. This group will definitely have their band posters on fan walls for years to come.

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