The Best Bands Like My Chemical Romance

Coley Reed
Updated April 15, 2024 25 items
Ranked By
547 votes
92 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the bands that people who like My Chemical Romance should check out ASAP.

Looking for more good bands like My Chemical Romance? You've come to the right place. Thanks to classic hit songs like "Teenagers," Gerard Way, Frank Iero, Mikey Way, and Ray Toro make up one of the first groups that come to mind when most people think about the emo rock genre, but there are many other great bands who share a similar sound. 

The Used, the All-American Rejects, and Hawthorne Heights are among the top emo bands that are often considered to be related artists to MCR, but alternative and pop punk groups of prior generations, like Good Charlotte, Green Day, and Jimmy Eat World also sound like the band they influenced in their own ways. 

Undeniably, My Chemical Romance has had a massive influence on the emo, screamo, and post-hardcore scenes, inspiring both its contemporaries and new bands today. And, while there are a lot of awesome groups and artists that sound like the legends behind "Welcome to the Black Parade," it's up to you to decide which are the best of the best. Vote up the bands you'd be most likely to recommend to people who are fans of My Chemical Romance, and be sure to add any that you feel we might have missed.

 

Most divisive: Panic! at the Disco
Over 90 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Bands Like My Chemical Romance
  • Green Day
    1
    51 votes

    As pioneers of the pop-punk genre, Green Day has undoubtedly had a profound influence on bands like My Chemical Romance. With their raw energy, unabashedly honest lyrics, and distinctive socio-political themes, Green Day set the stage for future emo bands to experiment with darker, more introspective styles. Billie Joe Armstrong's unique vocal delivery, coupled with Mike Dirnt and Tré Cool's versatile musicianship, made the band stand out from the crowd and paved the way for their long-standing success in the music industry.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Green Day
      - "American Idiot"
      - "Basket Case"
      - "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)"

    Dive Into Green Day's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Longview"
      - "When I Come Around"

  • Frank Iero
    2
    46 votes

    Although best known as the guitarist of My Chemical Romance, Frank Iero's solo album Stomachaches showcased his ability to create music that both encapsulates the essence of MCR and stands apart in originality. Iero's distinctively eerie, gritty sound is evident in his gut-wrenching lyrics and visceral themes, which offer an intimate glimpse into the emotional turmoil that fueled his musical creativity. His fearless approach to experimentation, blending punk aesthetics with emo sensibilities, has earned him a well-deserved spot among the best artists like My Chemical Romance.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Frank Iero
      - "Joyriding"
      - "Weighted"
      - "Oceans"

    Dive Into Frank Iero's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Stage 4 Fear of Trying"
      - "She's the Prettiest Girl at the Party and She Can Prove it with a Solid Right Hook"

  • Hawthorne Heights burst onto the emo scene with their debut album The Silence in Black and White, solidifying their status as one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. Featuring infectious hooks, layered guitar work, and emotionally-charged lyrics, Hawthorne Heights struck a chord with fans worldwide, thanks to their perfect blend of pop-punk melodies and post-hardcore intensity. The band's willingness to confront difficult topics such as depression, anxiety, and heartbreak in their music sets them apart from their contemporaries and continues to resonate with audiences to this day.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Hawthorne Heights
      - "Ohio Is for Lovers"
      - "Saying Sorry"
      - "Niki FM"

    Dive Into Hawthorne Heights's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Silver Bullet"
      - "Wake Up Call"

  • Taking Back Sunday's unique blend of melodic punk and introspective emo themes have made them an undeniably influential force within the alternative music scene. Adam Lazzara's emotive vocal style, paired with the band's powerful guitar-driven soundscapes, creates a distinct and unforgettable listening experience that has resonated with fans across generations. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday has consistently pushed the envelope, proving that true artistry knows no creative boundaries.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Taking Back Sunday
      - "MakeDamnSure"
      - "Cute Without the 'E' (Cut from the Team)"
      - "A Decade Under the Influence"

    Dive Into Taking Back Sunday's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "You're So Last Summer"
      - "This Photograph is Proof (I Know You Know)"

  • Paramore
    5
    36 votes

    Paramore's infectious melodies, expert musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics have made them a standout act in the world of emo-pop-rock. Frontwoman Hayley Williams' distinctively powerful voice, coupled with the band's genuine passion for their craft, has led them to create some of the most memorable songs of the past two decades. Paramore's unapologetic exploration of emotional vulnerability and self-discovery has endeared them to fans worldwide, solidifying their place among the best bands like My Chemical Romance.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Paramore
      - "Misery Business"
      - "Still Into You"
      - "Ain't It Fun"

    Dive Into Paramore's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Crushcrushcrush"
      - "Decode"

  • Fall Out Boy
    6
    50 votes

    With their clever lyricism and genre-defying sound, Fall Out Boy has undoubtedly cemented their status as one of the most influential emo bands of all time. Their distinctive fusion of punk-rock energy, pop sensibilities, and deeply introspective themes has resonated with countless fans and inspired many artists, including My Chemical Romance. Frontman Patrick Stump's unmistakable voice and Pete Wentz's poetic lyrics have helped create a lasting legacy that continues to impact the emo and pop-punk scenes today.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Fall Out Boy
      - "Sugar, We're Goin Down"
      - "I Don't Care"
      - "Dance, Dance"

    Dive Into Fall Out Boy's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Saturday"
      - "Grand Theft Autumn/Where Is Your Boy"

  • Falling in Reverse has fearlessly combined heavy metal elements with emo-inspired lyricism, creating a unique and dynamic sound that sets them apart from other bands like My Chemical Romance. Frontman Ronnie Radke's powerful vocals and captivating stage presence have helped the band carve out a niche within the post-hardcore scene, garnering legions of dedicated fans in the process. Their stylistic versatility and willingness to evolve with each new album have established Falling in Reverse as one of the most original and inventive bands in their genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Falling in Reverse
      - "Popular Monster"
      - "Losing My Mind"
      - "The Drug in Me is You"

    Dive Into Falling In Reverse's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Raised By Wolves"
      - "Don't Mess With Ouija Boards"

  • The Used
    8
    41 votes

    The Used's fusion of screaming vocals, hard-hitting instrumentals, and deeply emotional storytelling has cemented their reputation as one of the forerunners of the emo movement. Fronted by the enigmatic Bert McCracken, The Used has consistently delivered albums that push the boundaries of emo rock, solidifying their status as one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. The band's evocative, raw sound is the result of expertly crafted songwriting and powerful performances, which have captivated fans with their visceral intensity for nearly two decades.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Used
      - "The Taste of Ink"
      - "All That I've Got"
      - "I Caught Fire"

    Dive Into The Used's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Blue and Yellow"
      - "Box Full of Sharp Objects"

  • The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus' blend of emo, punk, and post-hardcore elements has made them a staple of the alternative music scene over the years. Their emotional vulnerability coupled with a powerful, raw sound has set them apart from their contemporaries and earned them a dedicated fanbase. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus consistently delivers heartfelt, introspective music that explores the depths of human emotions and experiences.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
      - "Face Down"
      - "Your Guardian Angel"
      - "False Pretense"

    Dive Into The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Damn Regret"
      - "Pen & Paper"

  • AFI
    10
    20 votes

    As one of the most enduring bands in emo and punk rock, AFI has consistently defied expectations with their ever-evolving sound and creative vision. The powerful vocals of frontman Davey Havok, paired with the band's dramatic, gothic-inspired aesthetic, have set them apart from their contemporaries and positioned them as a major influence on the emo scene. AFI's distinct brand of dark, melodic rock and their fearless exploration of new sonic territories make them one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From AFI
      - "Miss Murder"
      - "Love Like Winter"
      - "Girl's Not Grey"

    Dive Into AFI's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Silver and Cold"
      - "The Leaving Song Pt. II"

  • Panic! at the Disco's ambitious fusion of emo-tinged pop-rock with theatrical elements and genre-defying experimentation has made them one of the most unique and influential bands of their generation. Frontman Brendon Urie's astounding vocal range and captivating stage presence have made Panic! a force to be reckoned with, garnering legions of devoted fans along the way. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Panic! at the Disco's bold creativity and unwavering commitment to innovation ensure they will continue to impact the music world for years to come.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Panic! at the Disco
      - "I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
      - "High Hopes"
      - "Death of a Bachelor"

    Dive Into Panic! at the Disco's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Nine in the Afternoon"
      - "Northern Downpour"

  • Mayday Parade
    12

    Mayday Parade's emotionally charged anthems and heartfelt storytelling have made them a beloved mainstay in the emo and pop-punk scenes. Their penchant for creating infectious melodies, bolstered by their tight musicianship and powerful vocals, has set them apart from other bands in their genre. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Mayday Parade's unwavering commitment to authenticity and vulnerability in their music continues to resonate with fans across the globe.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Mayday Parade
      - "Jamie All Over"
      - "Jersey"
      - "Miserable at Best"

    Dive Into Mayday Parade's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Black Cat"
      - "When I Get Home, You're So Dead"

  • The All-American Rejects have skillfully combined the catchiness of pop-punk with the emotionally charged lyrics and themes of emo, setting them apart as one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. Frontman Tyson Ritter's charismatic stage presence and distinct vocal style have helped the band create memorable hits that continue to resonate with fans across generations. Their kinetic energy and unapologetic exploration of heartache and vulnerability have made them an undeniable influence on the emo-pop landscape.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The All  -American Rejects
      - "Move Along"
      - "Gives You Hell"
      - "Dirty Little Secret"

    Dive Into The All  -American Rejects's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Swing, Swing"
      - "It Ends Tonight"

  • Simple Plan
    14
    24 votes

    Simple Plan's catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and high-energy performances have made them a staple in the pop-punk and emo scenes for over two decades. Their ability to expertly balance infectious melodies with emotionally resonant themes has set them apart from other bands in their genre. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Simple Plan's earnest approach to songwriting and their unwavering commitment to creating music that speaks to the heart has endeared them to fans worldwide.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Simple Plan
      - "Welcome to My Life"
      - "Perfect"
      - "I'd Do Anything"

    Dive Into Simple Plan's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Untitled"
      - "Addicted"

  • Jimmy Eat World
    15

    Jimmy Eat World's thoughtfully crafted, introspective music has made them one of the most influential and enduring bands in emo and alternative rock. With their signature blend of catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and passionate performances, they have consistently delivered memorable albums that resonate with fans across generations. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Jimmy Eat World's commitment to pushing the boundaries of their sound while remaining true to their emotional core has solidified their legacy as trailblazers of the genre.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Jimmy Eat World
      - "The Middle"
      - "Sweetness"
      - "Bleed American"

    Dive Into Jimmy Eat World's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "A Praise Chorus"
      - "Hear You Me"

  • Escape The Fate
    16

    As one of the most exhilarating bands in post-hardcore and emo, Escape the Fate has continually captivated audiences with their high-octane performances and emotionally-driven music. Their fearless blending of heavy metal elements with raw, introspective lyrics has set them apart from their contemporaries and earned them legions of dedicated fans. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Escape the Fate's relentless creative energy and willingness to evolve have made them a standout force in the alternative music world.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Escape The Fate
      - "Not Good Enough for Truth in Cliché"
      - "Situations"
      - "There’s No Sympathy for The Dead"

    Dive Into Escape The Fate's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Guillotine"
      - "The Webs We Weave"

  • Senses Fail
    17
    13 votes

    Since their formation in 2002, Senses Fail has continually pushed the boundaries of emo and post-hardcore, establishing themselves as one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. Frontman Buddy Nielsen's raw, confessional lyrics and piercing vocal delivery have set the band apart from their contemporaries and made them a mainstay in the alternative music scene. Senses Fail's dedication to exploring complex emotional themes and delivering powerful, cathartic music has garnered them a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Senses Fail
      - "Can't Be Saved"
      - "Calling All Cars"
      - "Buried a Lie"

    Dive Into Senses Fail's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Rum is For Drinking, Not For Burning"
      - "Let It Enfold You"

  • Thursday
    18
    14 votes

    Thursday's emotive and intensely passionate brand of post-hardcore has made them one of the most influential acts in the emo scene. Their introspective and socially aware lyrics, coupled with their powerful, dynamic sound, have set them apart from other bands in their genre. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Thursday has consistently delivered thought-provoking and emotionally resonant music that has inspired countless artists and captivated fans around the world.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Thursday
      - "Understanding in a Car Crash"
      - "Cross Out the Eyes"
      - "War All the Time"

    Dive Into Thursday's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Signals Over the Air"
      - "Jet Black New Year"

  • Good Charlotte
    19

    Good Charlotte's combination of punk-rock energy, catchy pop hooks, and emotionally charged lyrics have made them one of the most beloved bands in emo and pop-punk history. Their ability to tackle complex themes such as mental health and societal pressures with honesty and vulnerability has set them apart from their contemporaries and endeared them to fans worldwide. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Good Charlotte has consistently delivered memorable albums and unforgettable live performances that continue to inspire and resonate.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Good Charlotte
      - "I Just Wanna Live"
      - "The Anthem"
      - "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous"

    Dive Into Good Charlotte's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Hold On"
      - "Little Things"

  • As one of the most innovative and cinematic bands in the emo and alternative rock genres, 30 Seconds to Mars has consistently pushed the boundaries of what rock music can be. Fronted by the enigmatic and multi-talented Jared Leto, the band's combination of soaring vocals, atmospheric soundscapes, and deeply introspective lyrics has set them apart from their peers and earned them a devoted following. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, 30 Seconds to Mars continues to challenge expectations and redefine the limits of emo and alternative music.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From 30 Seconds to Mars
      - "The Kill (Bury Me)"
      - "Kings and Queens"
      - "This is War"

    Dive Into 30 Seconds to Mars's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Closer to the Edge"
      - "A Beautiful Lie"

  • A Day To Remember's fusion of metalcore aggression and pop-punk catchiness has made them a powerhouse in the alternative music scene. Their unique blend of heavy breakdowns, anthemic choruses, and emotionally resonant lyrics has set them apart from other bands in their genre, solidifying their status as one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. ADTR's willingness to experiment with their sound and push the limits of their musical capabilities has helped them create a lasting impact on the emo and metalcore scenes alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From A Day To Remember
      - "If It Means a Lot to You"
      - "All I Want"
      - "The Downfall of Us All"

    Dive Into A Day To Remember's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Have Faith in Me"
      - "Homesick"

  • Silverstein
    22
    11 votes

    Combining emotional intensity with a powerful post-hardcore sound, Silverstein has been a mainstay in the emo and alternative music scenes since their formation in 2000. Their ability to fuse aggressive instrumentals with introspective, heartfelt lyrics has set them apart from their contemporaries and made them one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. Silverstein's unwavering commitment to their music and the passion they bring to each performance has made them a beloved and enduring presence within the emo community.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Silverstein
      - "My Heroine"
      - "Smile in Your Sleep"
      - "Discovering the Waterfront"

    Dive Into Silverstein's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Ides of March"
      - "Massachusetts"

  • Yellowcard
    23
    14 votes

    With their incorporation of violin into their signature pop-punk sound, Yellowcard has carved out a unique niche within the emo and alternative music scene. Their emotionally charged lyrics, passionate performances, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of their genre have made them one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance. Yellowcard's innovative approach to songwriting and their ability to create memorable, heartfelt music has earned them a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Yellowcard
      - "Ocean Avenue"
      - "Only One"
      - "Way Away"

    Dive Into Yellowcard's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Lights and Sounds"
      - "Empty Apartment"

  • Spawned from the creative mind of former Blink-182 guitarist Tom DeLonge, Angels & Airwaves has become a standout force in emo and alternative rock. Their unique fusion of spacey atmospheric sounds, powerful guitar work, and emotionally charged lyrics sets them apart from other bands in the genre. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, Angels & Airwaves consistently delivers thought-provoking and emotionally resonant music that challenges the boundaries of emo and alternative rock.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Angels & Airwaves
      - "The Adventure"
      - "Everything's Magic"
      - "I  -Empire"

    Dive Into Angels & Airwaves's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "It Hurts"
      - "Secret Crowds"

  • As one of the most distinctive voices in emo and pop-punk, The Academy Is... has created a lasting impact on the alternative music scene. Fronted by the charismatic William Beckett, the band's infectious hooks, intelligent lyricism, and polished sound have set them apart from their contemporaries and earned them a dedicated fanbase. As one of the best bands like My Chemical Romance, The Academy Is... has left an indelible mark on the emo and pop-punk genres, inspiring countless artists and fans alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Academy Is...
      - "About a Girl"
      - "Checkmarks"
      - "We've Got a Big Mess on Our Hands"

    Dive Into The Academy Is...'s History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Slow Down"
      - "Almost Here"