The Best Alternative Artists Of 2024, Ranked
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The Best Alternative Artists Of 2024, Ranked

Akansha Kakkad
Updated May 16, 2024 37 items
Ranked By
2.4K votes
356 voters
1 reranks
Voting Rules

Vote on the artists based on their 2024 music and performances.

Latest additions: Slowdive, The Pretenders, Guided by Voices
Most divisive: Eddie Vedder
Over 300 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Alternative Artists Of 2024, Ranked

Revealing the most sensational alternative artists of 2024, this ranked list is your guide to the up-to-coming world of alternative music. Using the criteria of creative originality, musical talent, audience appeal, and recent releases, we've collated a collection of artists that have truly rocked the year, setting a new pedestal for the alternative genre. Whether through their lyrical depth, innovative melodies or contagious rhythm, these popular alt singers and bands captured hearts and headphones across the globe. This list is created based on crowd rankings by fans - because who better to judge these artists than their devoted followers?

Cannons have proven their mettle with their synth-pop vibes intertwined with indie overtones, creating a distinct sound in the alternative genre. They share the platform with Brittany Howard, whose soulful voice and poignant lyrics have resonated with music lovers. In contrast, Cage The Elephant's gritty alt-rock anthems fused with bluesy undertones bring a blast of raw energy to this collection. Meanwhile, The 1975, famed for their eclectic style which merges pop, rock and electro into a seamlessly coherent sound, have left an indelible mark on this year. MGMT, a band known for their psychedelic synth-pop tunes that are both nostalgic and futuristic, is also a solid contender. Let's not forget Bleachers, whose blend of indie pop with elements of synth-pop and rock has consistently been a fan-favorite.

What does your ranking look like? Which of these artists have won your heart, moved your soul, or simply made you want to dance? The power to decide whose music truly represents the alternative genre in 2024 lies in your hands. Check out our list, vote for your favorites, and reshape the music landscape with your choice. Every vote counts, every opinion matters. So, let’s celebrate these artists, and by doing so, play a meaningful part in defining the future of alternative music.

  • Blink-182
    1
    146 votes
    Blink-182 are an American rock band formed in Poway, California, in 1992. Their current lineup consists of guitarist/vocalist Matt Skiba, bassist/vocalist Mark Hoppus, and drummer Travis Barker. Though their sound has diversified throughout their career, their musical style blends catchy pop melodies with fast-paced punk rock. Their lyrics center on relationships, adolescent frustration, and maturity—or lack thereof. The group emerged from a suburban, Southern California skate-punk scene and gained notoriety for high-energy live shows and irreverent humor. After years of independent recording and touring, including stints on the Warped Tour, the group signed to MCA Records. Their biggest albums, Enema of the State (1999) and Take Off Your Pants and Jacket (2001), saw international success. Songs like "All the Small Things", "Dammit", "I Miss You", and "What's My Age Again?" became hit singles and MTV staples. Later efforts, including an untitled album (2003), marked stylistic shifts.
  • Paramore
    2
    175 votes
    Paramore are an American rock band from Franklin, Tennessee, formed in 2004. The band currently consists of lead vocalist Hayley Williams, guitarist Taylor York and drummer Zac Farro. Williams and Farro are founding members of the group, while York, a high school friend of the original lineup, joined in 2007. The band are signed to Fueled by Ramen, a subsidiary of Atlantic Records, both owned by Warner Music Group. Williams is separately signed to Atlantic as she was scouted when she was a teenager, and they were the only label to let her stay in the band instead of going solo, but Atlantic said the rest of the band had to sign to FBR. She is also the only member to appear on all five of Paramore's studio albums. The group released its debut album, All We Know Is Falling, in 2005, with the album reaching number four on the UK Rock Chart in 2009 and number thirty on Billboard's Heatseekers Chart in 2006. In 2013, the band's fourth album gave them their first #1 on the US Billboard 200.
  • Fall Out Boy
    3
    115 votes
    Fall Out Boy are an American rock band formed in Wilmette, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, in 2001. The band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Patrick Stump, bassist Pete Wentz, lead guitarist Joe Trohman, and drummer Andy Hurley. The band originated from Chicago's hardcore punk scene, with which all members were involved at one point. The group was formed by Wentz and Trohman as a pop punk side project of the members' respective hardcore bands, and Stump joined shortly thereafter. The group went through a succession of drummers before landing Hurley and recording the group's debut album, Take This to Your Grave (2003). The album became an underground success and helped the band gain a dedicated fanbase through heavy touring, as well as commercial success. Take This to Your Grave has commonly been cited as an influential blueprint for pop punk music in the 2000s. The band has received two Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist (2006) and Best Rock Album (2019).
  • Green Day
    4
    141 votes
    Green Day, an American punk rock band, established their name in the music industry with their distinctive blend of raw energy, rebellious spirit, and catchy melodies. The band was formed in 1986 by childhood friends Billie Joe Armstrong and Mike Dirnt, originally under the name Sweet Children. Later joined by drummer Tré Cool, they rechristened themselves as Green Day, a slang term for a day spent smoking marijuana, reflecting their lighthearted approach to serious subjects. The band's breakthrough came in 1994 with the album Dookie, which sold more than 10 million copies in the United States alone. This album introduced the world to Green Day's trademark sound: powerful, fast-paced punk peppered with infectious hooks and sharp lyrics. It spawned hits like "Basket Case" and "When I Come Around," catapulting the band to international fame. Green Day's success continued with albums like Insomniac, Nimrod, and Warning. Green Day's ability to evolve artistically was further proven with the rock opera American Idiot in 2004. The politically charged narrative album resonated with audiences worldwide, earning the band new acclaim. It was later adapted into a successful Broadway musical. Despite facing various challenges, including Armstrong's struggles with substance abuse, Green Day has remained a vital force in the music industry. Their contribution to punk rock music is undeniable, marking them as one of the genre's most influential bands.
  • My Chemical Romance are an American rock band from Newark, New Jersey. The band's current lineup consists of lead vocalist Gerard Way, lead guitarist Ray Toro, rhythm guitarist Frank Iero, and bassist Mikey Way. Founded by Gerard, Mikey, Toro, and Matt Pelissier (and later joined by Iero), the band signed with Eyeball Records and released their debut album, I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love, in 2002. They signed with Reprise Records the next year and released their major-label debut, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, in 2004. Shortly after the album's release, Pelissier was replaced by Bob Bryar. The album was a commercial success, and it attained platinum status over a year later. The success of the band's previous albums was eclipsed by that of their 2006 concept album, The Black Parade, which generally received favorable reviews from music critics and was certified triple platinum in the United States and the United Kingdom.
  • Twenty One Pilots (stylized in all lowercase or as twenty øne piløts) are an American musical duo from Columbus, Ohio. The band was formed in 2009 by lead vocalist Tyler Joseph along with Nick Thomas and Chris Salih, who both left in 2011. Since their departure, the line-up has consisted of Joseph and drummer Josh Dun. The duo is best known for their singles "Stressed Out", "Ride", and "Heathens". The group received a Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards for "Stressed Out". The band independently released two albums, Twenty One Pilots (2009) and Regional at Best (2011), before being signed by record label Fueled by Ramen in 2012. Their label debut, Vessel, was released in 2013 and became the second album in history on which every track received at least a gold certification, making Twenty One Pilots the first band in the history of music to see every song on two albums earn gold or platinum awards.
  • The Red Hot Chili Peppers is a legendary rock band hailing from Los Angeles, California. The group was established in 1983 by Anthony Kiedis, Michael Balzary (also known as Flea), Hillel Slovak, and Jack Irons. Through their unique blend of funk, punk, and psychedelic rock, the band cemented its place in music history. Their dynamic sound and raw energy have earned them a global fan base, numerous awards, and commercial success. The band's journey was not without its hardships. In the late 1980s, they faced the tragic loss of guitarist Hillel Slovak due to drug overdose. The following years saw several lineup changes, with the entrance of John Frusciante and Chad Smith proving pivotal in shaping the band's signature sound. Together, they produced some of the Chili Peppers' most acclaimed work, including the quadruple platinum album Blood Sugar Sex Magik. This album featured hits like Under The Bridge and Give It Away, which have since become anthems of the 90s rock scene. Despite experiencing intermittent periods of hiatus and personal struggles, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have displayed remarkable resilience. They have released 11 studio albums, with their 2006 album Stadium Arcadium earning them five Grammy Awards. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, a testament to their significant contribution to the music industry. Their enduring influence continues to resonate within the realm of rock, inspiring countless musicians and captivating audiences worldwide.
  • Muse
    8
    88 votes
    Muse, a renowned alternative rock band, hails from Teignmouth, Devon in the United Kingdom. Consisting of Matthew Bellamy as the lead vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter, Christopher Wolstenholme on bass and backing vocals, and Dominic Howard on drums, Muse was formed in 1994. The trio met at their school in Teignmouth, and their shared love for music led to the formation of the band. Their unique blend of rock, electronica, classical music, and progressive rock has garnered them international acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The band's discography is impressive, with a total of eight studio albums released. Their debut album, Showbiz, was unveiled in 1999, but it was their second album, Origin of Symmetry in 2001, that truly put them on the map. Muse continued to evolve their sound with each successive album, experimenting with various musical styles and themes. Some of their most popular songs include "Uprising," "Starlight," and "Knights of Cydonia," which showcase their dynamic range and innovative musicality. Aside from their music, Muse is known for their energetic and extravagant live performances, often incorporating elaborate stage designs and light shows. They have performed at some of the world's biggest music festivals, like Glastonbury and Coachella. Their contribution to music has not gone unnoticed, as they have received numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards for Best Rock Album. Despite the many changes in the music industry over the years, Muse has remained a consistent force, continually pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a rock band in the 21st century.
  • Panic! at the Disco is the solo project of American musician Brendon Urie. It was originally a pop rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada, formed in 2004 by childhood friends Urie, Ryan Ross, Spencer Smith, and Brent Wilson. They recorded their first demos while they were in high school. Shortly after, the band recorded and released their debut studio album, A Fever You Can't Sweat Out (2005). Popularized by the second single, "I Write Sins Not Tragedies", the album was certified triple platinum in the US. In 2006, founding bassist Brent Wilson was fired from the band during an extensive world tour and subsequently replaced by Jon Walker. The band's second album, Pretty. Odd. (2008), was preceded by the single "Nine in the Afternoon". That album marked a significant departure from the sound of the band's debut. Ross and Walker, who favored the band's new direction, departed because Urie and Smith wanted to make further changes to the band's style.
  • Måneskin
    10
    101 votes
    Måneskin are an Italian glam pop rock band formed in Rome in 2016. The band is composed of vocalist Damiano David, bassist Victoria de Angelis, guitarist Thomas Raggi, and drummer Ethan Torchio. Performing in the streets in their early days, they rose to prominence after finishing second in the eleventh season of the Italian talent show X Factor in 2017. Their international breakthrough ensued when the foursome won the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 for Italy with the song "Zitti e buoni." The band have released two studio albums Il ballo della vita (2018) and Teatro d'ira: Vol. I (2021), one extended-play, and nine singles, which have topped the Italian and European music charts. They have collected 28 platinum and 7 gold certifications from FIMI (Federation of the Italian Music Industry), and have sold over one million records in Italy before their post-Eurovision breakthrough. In 2021, Måneskin became the first Italian rock band to reach the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart.
  • The Smashing Pumpkins, a renowned American alternative rock band, was formed in Chicago, Illinois in 1988. The initial line-up included Billy Corgan as the lead vocalist and guitarist, James Iha on guitar, D'arcy Wretzky on bass, and Jimmy Chamberlin on drums. Their music emerged as an amalgamation of gothic rock, heavy metal, dream pop, and psychedelic rock, which distinguished them from other bands of the era. Their career took off with their debut album Gish in 1991. However, it was their second album, Siamese Dream, that catapulted them to fame in 1993. The album, filled with angst-ridden lyrics and grungy guitar riffs, was a critical and commercial success. It established the band's unique sound and identity and became a defining record of its time. In 1995, they released the ambitious double-disc album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, which further set them apart from their contemporaries. This album spawned hits like "1979", "Bullet with Butterfly Wings", and "Tonight, Tonight", solidifying their place in the annals of rock history. Despite the band's phenomenal success, they were not immune to turbulence. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the band grappled with personal conflicts, drug addiction, and lineup changes. They announced their breakup in 2000, only to reunite in 2006. Since then, The Smashing Pumpkins continue to create music, albeit with different formations.
  • Weezer
    12
    120 votes
    Weezer, the iconic American rock band, was formed in Los Angeles, California in 1992. The founding members were Rivers Cuomo, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bell, and Matt Sharp. Defined by its distinctive fusion of power pop and alternative rock, Weezer's stylistic innovation has made them a stand-out entity in the landscape of 90s music and beyond. Throughout their career, they've created multiple chart-topping hits and have developed a dedicated fanbase. The band's breakthrough came in 1994 with their debut self-titled album, often referred to as The Blue Album. This album, featuring now-classic tracks such as "Buddy Holly" and "Say It Ain't So" showcased the group's knack for catchy, emotionally poignant tunes. Following the success of The Blue Album, Weezer released their sophomore effort, Pinkerton, in 1996. Initially met with mixed reviews, Pinkerton has since been hailed as a seminal work in the emo genre, reflecting the band's ability to evolve and push the boundaries of alternative rock. Beyond their initial successes in the '90s, Weezer has consistently produced new material that continues to shape the rock genre. Their discography is punctuated by a series of self-titled albums, each known by a corresponding color, including the Green, Red, and White albums. Despite lineup changes over the years, the core elements of Weezer's sound have remained intact. Their music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, marking Weezer as one of the most enduring and influential bands in modern rock history.
  • The Strokes
    13
    88 votes
    The Strokes are an American rock band formed in New York City in 1998, consisting of Julian Casablancas, Nick Valensi, Albert Hammond, Jr., Nikolai Fraiture and Fabrizio Moretti. Upon the release of their debut album Is This It in 2001, the group met wide critical acclaim. Since then, the band has maintained a fan base in New York City and elsewhere in the United States, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Ireland, Canada, France, Brazil and Australia. A number of members have embarked on a variety of side projects, though they regrouped for a fifth album, titled Comedown Machine, released on March 26, 2013. They have sold over 5 million albums. They are one of the many indie rock bands to hail from the US at the dawn of the 21st century and helped augment the garage rock revival movement. Their debut album, Is This It, was ranked number 199 on Rolling Stone '​s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, number 4 on NME's 500 greatest albums of all time, number 8 on Rolling Stone's 100 Best Debut Albums of All Time and number 2 on Rolling Stone's 100 Best Albums of the 2000s.
  • Bring Me the Horizon are a British metalcore band from Sheffield, Yorkshire. Formed in 2003, the group currently consists of lead vocalist Oliver Sykes, lead guitarist Lee Malia, bassist Matt Kean, drummer Matt Nicholls and keyboardist Jordan Fish. They are currently signed to RCA Records globally and Epitaph Records exclusively in the US. The style of their early work has primarily been described as deathcore, but they started to adopt a more eclectic style of metalcore on later releases. Furthermore, their latest singles marked a shift in their sound to less aggressive rock music styles. Bring Me the Horizon released their debut album Count Your Blessings in 2006. Upon release, the album was met with great polarisation amongst the public and critical disdain. The band began to break away from their controversial sound with Suicide Season, which proved to be a creative, critical and commercial turning point for the band. Bring Me the Horizon then released their third album There Is a Hell, Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven, Let's Keep It a Secret. in 2010, propelling them to greater international fame, whilst incorporating influences from classical, electronica and pop.
  • Depeche Mode
    15
    16 votes
    Depeche Mode () are an English electronic band formed in Basildon, Essex, in 1980. The group as of 2019 consists of a trio of Dave Gahan (lead vocals and co-songwriting), Martin Gore (keyboards, guitar, and main songwriting), and Andy Fletcher (keyboards). Depeche Mode released their debut album Speak & Spell in 1981, bringing the band onto the British new wave scene. Founding member Vince Clarke left after the release of the album; they recorded A Broken Frame as a trio. Gore took over as main songwriter and, later in 1982, Alan Wilder replaced Clarke, establishing a lineup that continued for 13 years. The band's last albums of the 1980s, Black Celebration and Music for the Masses, established them as a dominant force within the electronic music scene. A highlight of this era was the band's June 1988 concert at the Pasadena Rose Bowl, where they drew a crowd in excess of 60,000 people. In early 1990, they released Violator, an international mainstream success. The following album, Songs of Faith and Devotion in 1993 was also a success, though internal struggles within the band during recording and touring resulted in Wilder's departure in 1995. Depeche Mode has had 54 songs in the UK Singles Chart and 17 top 10 albums in the UK chart; they have sold more than 100 million records worldwide. Q included the band in the list of the "50 Bands That Changed the World!". Depeche Mode also rank number 98 on VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of All Time". In December 2016, Billboard named Depeche Mode the 10th most successful dance club artist of all time.
  • Bastille
    16
    92 votes
    Bastille are an English indie rock band formed in 2010. They began as a solo project by singer-songwriter Dan Smith, who later decided to form a band. The four-piece is completed by Chris 'Woody' Wood, William Farquarson, and Kyle Simmons. The name of the band derives from Bastille Day – an event celebrated on Smith's birthday, 14 July. In December 2010, EMI Music announced that they had offered Bastille a record contract with Virgin Records. Their debut single, "Overjoyed" was subsequently released in April 2012. Their first studio album, titled Bad Blood, was released in March 2013 and debuted atop the UK Albums Chart. The band was nominated for four Brit Awards at the 2014 ceremony, including for British Breakthrough Act, British Group, British Single of the Year and British Album of the Year, winning for British Breakthrough Act. As of November 2014, Bastille have sold over 5 million records in the US and 2.5 million records in the UK alone.
  • Jimmy Eat World
    17
    Jimmy Eat World are an American rock band formed in 1993 in Mesa, Arizona. The band is composed of lead vocalist and lead guitarist Jim Adkins, rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist Tom Linton, bassist Rick Burch, and drummer Zach Lind. They have released ten studio albums, the last nine featuring the current lineup. The four-piece's commercial breakthrough came with the release of several singles from their album Bleed American (2001), four of which charted within the top 20 positions of the Alternative Songs chart, with "The Middle" reaching No. 1. Their follow-up album, Futures (2004), featured the No. 1 song "Pain". The RIAA certified Bleed American platinum and Futures gold, rewarding the two albums for selling over 1.5 million records between them. The band's sixth LP, Chase This Light (2007), became their highest-charting album and peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. The band released their tenth album, Surviving, in October 2019.
  • Imagine Dragons
    18
    Imagine Dragons are an American pop rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada. Imagine Dragons' lineup consists of lead vocalist Dan Reynolds, guitarist Wayne "Wing" Sermon, bassist Ben McKee and drummer Daniel Platzman. The band gained exposure following the release of their debut studio album, Night Visions and first single "It's Time". The band's second studio album Smoke and Mirrors reached number one on the Billboard 200, Canadian Albums Chart, and UK Albums Chart. Night Visions peaked at number two on the weekly Billboard 200 and UK Albums Chart. According to Billboard, Imagine Dragons topped the year-end rock rankings for 2013; Billboard named them "The Breakthrough Band of 2013", and Rolling Stone named their single "Radioactive" "the biggest rock hit of the year". MTV called them "the year's biggest breakout band." Imagine Dragons won an American Music Award for Favorite Alternative Artist, a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance, five Billboard Music Awards, and a World Music Award.
  • Avril Lavigne
    19
    103 votes
    Avril Ramona Lavigne, born on September 27, 1984 in Belleville, Ontario, Canada, is a globally recognized Canadian-French singer-songwriter and actress. Raised in a deeply religious family, her journey towards stardom began in church choirs and local performances. Her raw talent was noticed by her first manager, Cliff Fabri, while she was performing at a bookstore in Kingston, Ontario. This led to a two-album recording contract with Arista Records, worth more than $2 million. Lavigne's debut album, Let Go, released in 2002, catapulted her into the limelight. The album, marked by its punk-pop sound, reached number two on the U.S Billboard 200 and was certified six-times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. The lead single, "Complicated," was a global hit, setting the tone for Lavigne's signature style - a blend of punk, rock, and pop that appealed to a broad audience. In addition to her music career, Lavigne ventured into acting, making appearances in films such as Over the Hedge and Fast Food Nation. Throughout her career, Avril Lavigne has been acclaimed not only for her distinctive vocal prowess but also for her songwriting skills. She has received several awards, including eight Grammy nominations. Moreover, her philanthropic endeavors are noteworthy. In 2010, she established the Avril Lavigne Foundation, which supports people with serious illnesses and disabilities. Despite battling Lyme disease, Lavigne continues to inspire millions with her resiliency and undeniable talent, proving herself to be a steadfast figure in the ever-changing world of music.
  • Blur
    20
    14 votes
    Blur are an English rock band, formed in London in 1988. The group consists of singer/keyboardist Damon Albarn, guitarist/singer Graham Coxon, bassist Alex James and drummer Dave Rowntree. Their debut album Leisure (1991) incorporated the sounds of Madchester and shoegazing. Following a stylistic change influenced by English guitar pop groups such as the Kinks, the Beatles and XTC, Blur released Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993), Parklife (1994) and The Great Escape (1995). In the process, the band became central to the Britpop music and culture movement, and achieved mass popularity in the UK, aided by a chart battle with rivals Oasis in 1995 dubbed the "Battle of Britpop". In recording their follow-up, Blur (1997), the band underwent another reinvention, showing influence from the lo-fi style of American indie rock groups. The band's third UK number one album, Blur included the "Song 2" single, which brought them mainstream success in the US. Their next album, 13 (1999) saw the band members experimenting with electronic and gospel music, and featured more personal lyrics from Albarn. In May 2002, Coxon left Blur during the recording of their seventh album Think Tank (2003). Containing electronic sounds and more minimal guitar work, the album was marked by Albarn's growing interest in hip hop and African music. After a 2003 tour without Coxon, Blur did no studio work or touring as a band, as members engaged in other projects. Blur reunited, with Coxon back in the fold, for a series of concerts in 2009. In the following years they released several singles and retrospective compilations, and toured internationally. In 2012, the group received a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Their first major release in twelve years, The Magic Whip (2015), became the sixth consecutive Blur studio album to top the British charts.
  • The All-American Rejects are an American rock band formed in Stillwater, Oklahoma in 1999. The band consists of Tyson Ritter, Nick Wheeler, Mike Kennerty, and Chris Gaylor. The band achieved mainstream success with their debut self-titled studio album The All-American Rejects released in 2003 by Dreamworks Records. The album was certified platinum by the RIAA and spawned the single "Swing, Swing". The band's second album Move Along brought the band further mainstream success in 2005, producing the hit singles, "Dirty Little Secret", "Move Along" and "It Ends Tonight", all of which charted in the top fifteen on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, while Move Along was certified double platinum by the RIAA. Their third studio album When the World Comes Down was released in 2008 and was later certified gold by the RIAA. Its lead single "Gives You Hell" became The All-American Rejects' most successful song to date, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the top 5 in many other countries. "Gives You Hell" was certified 4× multi-platinum for sales of over 4 million in the United States by the RIAA.
  • The Lumineers
    22
    The Lumineers are an American folk rock band based in Denver, Colorado. The founding members are Wesley Schultz (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums, percussion, piano). Schultz and Fraites began writing and performing together in Ramsey, New Jersey in 2005. Cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek (cello) joined the band in 2010, and was a member until 2018. The Lumineers emerged as one of the most popular folk-rock/Americana artists during the revival of those genres, their popularity growing in the 2010s. The band's stripped back raw sound draws heavily from artists that influenced Schultz and Fraites such as Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. They are known for their energetic live shows and several international hit singles including "Ho Hey", "Stubborn Love", "Ophelia" "Angela" and "Cleopatra." The band has become one of the top touring bands in the United States and is also popular in other countries.
  • Taking Back Sunday is an American rock band from Long Island, New York. The band was formed by guitarist Eddie Reyes in 1999. The band's members are Adam Lazzara (lead vocals), John Nolan (lead guitar, keyboards, vocals), Shaun Cooper (bass guitar), and Mark O'Connell (drums), and they are joined by Nathan Cogan (guitar) for their live performances. Nolan and Cooper left the group in 2003 before rejoining in 2010. The band has released studio albums with various past members Fred Mascherino (guitar, vocals), Matthew Rubano (bass guitar), Matthew Fazzi (guitar, keyboards, vocals), and Eddie Reyes (guitar). Louder Now (2006) was the band's breakout mainstream album, notably because of the popularity of its lead single "MakeDamnSure". The album sold over 900,000 copies and peaked at No. 2 on the United States Billboard 200, surpassing the band's previous Billboard 200 peak in 2004 at No. 3 with Where You Want to Be. Before the release of their first studio album Tell All Your Friends (2002), they released Taking Back Sunday's EP in 2001, when the band featured former lead vocalist Antonio Longo. At that time, the EP received very little attention, eventually resulting in the band seeking a new lead singer, Adam Lazzara. Lazzara had at first joined the band as its guitarist, left a few months after it formed, then replaced original bassist Jesse Lacey (now of Brand New) during the EP's recording sessions. John Nolan and Shaun Cooper left the band in 2003 only to rejoin in 2010, in time for the band's release of their eponymous album Taking Back Sunday (2011). The album was produced by Eric Valentine and released through Warner Bros. Records. In 2014, the band released their sixth studio album Happiness Is to positive reviews. The album reached number 10 on the US Billboard 200. In 2016, they released their seventh album Tidal Wave.
  • Jack White
    24
    79 votes
    Jack White, born as John Anthony Gillis on July 9, 1975, in Detroit, Michigan, is a multitalented musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer renowned for his distinctive style that spans multiple genres. Raised in a large family with ten siblings, White discovered his passion for music early in life, playing various instruments before focusing on the guitar. His musical journey began in earnest in the 1990s when he played drums for the punk band Goober & the Peas. White gained international acclaim as the lead vocalist and guitarist of The White Stripes, a rock duo he co-founded with his then-wife, Meg White. The pair released six studio albums, with their third album, White Blood Cells, and its single "Fell in Love with a Girl" propelling them to worldwide fame. Their raw, minimalist sound, characterized by Jack's powerful guitar work and Meg's primal drumming, was instrumental in reviving garage rock in the early 2000s. Following The White Stripes' disbandment in 2011, White embarked on a successful solo career, releasing three chart-topping albums and earning numerous Grammy nominations. In addition to his performing career, White is an accomplished record producer and the founder of Third Man Records, a label that champions vinyl records and has a roster of diverse artists. He has been a tireless advocate for analog technology in an increasingly digital world, preserving the warmth and authenticity of music recorded and played on physical media. Known for his relentless creativity and innovative approach to music, White has collaborated with a variety of artists across different genres, further solidifying his status as one of the most influential musicians of his generation.
  • Eddie Vedder
    25
    62 votes
    Eddie Vedder, born Edward Louis Severson III on December 23, 1964, is an acclaimed American musician and singer-songwriter. He rose to fame as the lead vocalist and one of the guitarists of the alternative rock band Pearl Jam. Born and raised in Evanston, Illinois, Vedder had a challenging childhood marked by parental divorce and identity confusion, which later became the emotional basis for some of his lyricism. Vedder moved to San Diego, California in the early 1980s and spent his time there working various jobs while honing his music skills. His big break came in 1990 when he was recruited to be the lead vocalist for Pearl Jam. The band's debut album Ten was a phenomenal success, largely due to Vedder's powerful baritone vocals and emotive lyrics. Songs like "Alive," "Jeremy," and "Even Flow" remain iconic anthems of the 90s grunge movement. Beyond Pearl Jam, Vedder also pursued a successful solo career. His first solo album, Into the Wild (2007), was a soundtrack for the film of the same name and received a Golden Globe for the song "Guaranteed." A versatile musician, Vedder plays multiple instruments including guitar, harmonica, and ukulele. Apart from his musical endeavors, Vedder is known for his advocacy for environmental causes, and his efforts to promote awareness about neurodegenerative diseases. Throughout his career, Eddie Vedder's distinctive sound and passionate activism have cemented his status as a rock legend.
  • All Time Low
    26
    58 votes
    All Time Low are an American rock band from Towson, Maryland formed in 2003. Consisting of lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Alex Gaskarth, lead guitarist Jack Barakat, bassist/backing vocalist Zack Merrick, and drummer Rian Dawson, the band took its name from lyrics in the song "Head on Collision" by New Found Glory. The band has consistently done year-long tours, has headlined numerous tours, and has appeared at music festivals including Warped Tour, Reading and Leeds, and Soundwave. Beginning as a band in high school, All Time Low released their debut EP, The Three Words to Remember in Dealing with the End EP, in 2004 through local label Emerald Moon. Since then the band has released eight studio albums: The Party Scene (2005), So Wrong, It's Right (2007), Nothing Personal (2009), Dirty Work (2011), Don't Panic (2012), Future Hearts (2015), Last Young Renegade (2017), and Wake Up, Sunshine (2020). They have released two live albums, one in 2010 and another in 2016.
  • AFI
    27
    50 votes
    AFI (abbreviation for A Fire Inside) are an American rock band from Ukiah, California, formed in 1991. Since 1998, it consists of lead vocalist Davey Havok, drummer and backing vocalist Adam Carson, bassist, backing vocalist and keyboardist Hunter Burgan, and guitarist, backing vocalist and keyboardist Jade Puget. Havok and Carson are the sole remaining original members. Originally a hardcore punk band, they have since delved into many genres, starting with horror punk and following through post-hardcore and emo into alternative rock and gothic rock. AFI has released eleven studio albums, ten EPs, one live album and one DVD. The band first reached substantial commercial success with their fifth album, The Art of Drowning (2000), which peaked at number 174 on the Billboard 200. They then broke into the mainstream with their sixth, Sing the Sorrow (2003), which peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200 and remained on the chart for 51 weeks. AFI released their 11th album Bodies on June 11, 2021.
  • The Pretenders
    28
    The Pretenders are an English–American rock band formed in March 1978. The original band consisted of founder and main songwriter Chrissie Hynde (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), James Honeyman-Scott (lead guitar, backing vocals, keyboards), Pete Farndon (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Martin Chambers (drums, backing vocals, percussion). Following the deaths of Honeyman-Scott in 1982 and Farndon in 1983, the band experienced numerous personnel changes; Hynde has been the band's only consistent member. Pretenders' hit songs include "Kid" (1979), "Brass in Pocket" (1979), "Talk of the Town" (1980), "Message of Love" (1981), "My City Was Gone" (1982), "Back on the Chain Gang" (1982), "Middle of the Road" (1983), "2000 Miles" (1983[3]), "Don't Get Me Wrong" (1986), "My Baby" (1986), and "I'll Stand by You" (1994). The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
  • A Day to Remember are an American rock band from Ocala, Florida, founded in 2003 by guitarist Tom Denney and drummer Bobby Scruggs. They are known for their amalgamation of metalcore and pop punk. The band currently consists of vocalist Jeremy McKinnon, rhythm guitarist Neil Westfall, percussionist/drummer Alex Shelnutt and lead guitarist Kevin Skaff. Signing with Indianola Records for their first album, And Their Name Was Treason (2005), Scruggs was replaced by Shelnutt in 2006. Later that year the band recorded For Those Who Have Heart (2007) for Victory Records. They embarked on several tours of the UK and U.S. and played at several festivals before recording and releasing Homesick (2009). While promoting Homesick on tour, Denney was replaced by Skaff. Soon after releasing their next album, What Separates Me from You (2010), the band went on a worldwide tour to promote it. Since 2011, the band has been involved in a lawsuit with Victory Records over their recording contract.
  • Bright Eyes
    30
    53 votes
    Bright Eyes are an American indie rock band founded by singer-songwriter and guitarist Conor Oberst. It consists of Oberst, multi-instrumentalist and producer Mike Mogis, arranger, composer and trumpet and piano player Nate Walcott, and a rotating line-up of collaborators drawn primarily from Omaha's indie music scene. Between 1998 and 2011, the band's albums were released through Saddle Creek Records, a Nebraska-based label founded by Justin Oberst (Conor's brother) and Mogis. In January 2020, the band announced their return, having signed with Dead Oceans.