The Best Punk Rock Bands & Artists

Ranker Music
Updated May 1, 2024 74.7K views 62 items
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70.5K votes
3.7K voters
Voting Rules
Punk rock bands & artists only.
Latest additions: The Slits, X-Ray Spex, Green Day
Most divisive: L7
Over 3.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Punk Rock Bands

Bursting from the metropolitan capitals of New York City and London in the mid-1970s, punk rock music reverberated through the airwaves with its raw intensity, subverting the progressive and hard rock that previously held sway. The genre's simple, three-chord music won the hearts of listeners, accelerating heartbeats and prompting headbanging frenzies across generations. The best punk bands are artists propelled by an incandescent energy, aggressive, fast and fiery, their trailblazing tunes carving out a niche in the canon of all-time greats. 

Distinguished for their unique style and far-reaching influence, the best punk bands of all time also permeated the mainstream, their popularity strong even beyond the punk scene. Injecting their singular spirit into every riff and lyric, these bands stand as paradigms of punk, their impact unyielding in the face of time and trends. The creativity and originality that permeates their music has made a their lasting impact on the punk scene as well as subsequent genres. This impact truly sets them apart. 

Among such legendary punk rock bands, The Clash stands tall with their politicized lyrics and explosive performances, their legacy building through numerous chart-topping hits. The Ramones are also naturals for the list. This band was hailed as the first true punk rock band, fostering a minimalist approach that contrasted sharply with the prevailing stadium rock of their time. Their paced rhythms and catchy melodies established a new punk-rock-music language, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Also deserving of mention are the Misfits, who carved out a distinct identity for themselves with their unique fusion of punk, heavy metal and rockabilly.  

As this journey through the annals of punk rock comes to a close, it's important to remember that each band is but a piece of the much larger, vibrant tapestry that defines the genre. The best punk bands of all time didn't merely make memorable music, but created significant cultural movements, pushing boundaries, challenged norms and revolutionized the sound of rebellion. Their own brand of anarchy lives on, echoed in the chords of every punk rock band to follow, forever preserving the transcendent energy of this groundbreaking genre. 

  • The Velvet Underground
    31

    Often credited as one of the original progenitors of punk rock, The Velvet Underground's fusion of raw, gritty rock 'n' roll with avant-garde experimentation laid the groundwork for countless bands to follow. Fronted by Lou Reed and backed by the enigmatic John Cale, the group's dark, provocative lyrics and boundary-pushing sound resonated with those seeking an alternative to the mainstream in the late 1960s. Their seminal album, The Velvet Underground & Nico, remains a cornerstone of the punk rock canon and a testament to their enduring influence on the genre. As one of the bands that helped define the rebellious spirit at the heart of punk rock before it even had a name, The Velvet Underground's legacy is secure.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Velvet Underground
      - "I'm Waiting for the Man"
      - "Sweet Jane"
      - "Pale Blue Eyes"

    Dive Into The Velvet Underground's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Venus in Furs"
      - "White Light/White Heat"

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  • T.S.O.L.
    32

    T.S.O.L.

    382 votes

    True Sounds of Liberty (T.S.O.L.) emerged from the Southern California punk scene in the early 1980s with a dark, aggressive sound that incorporated elements of goth and deathrock into the mix. Fronted by the enigmatic Jack Grisham, the band's confrontational style and provocative lyrics quickly earned them a devoted following among fans seeking something different from the sun-drenched surf punk of their peers. Their classic album, Dance with Me, remains a touchstone of the early California punk scene and an essential part of any hardcore punk aficionado's collection. T.S.O.L.'s unique sonic explorations and uncompromising spirit continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From T.S.O.L.
      - "Code Blue"
      - "Abolish Government/Silent Majority"
      - "The Sounds of Laughter"

    Dive Into T.S.O.L.'s History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Weathered Statues"
      - "In My Head"

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  • Dropkick Murphys
    33

    Formed in 1996 in Quincy, Massachusetts, the Dropkick Murphys have become synonymous with their distinct brand of Celtic-tinged punk rock, which combines elements of traditional Irish music with raw, high-energy punk rock. Fronted by Al Barr and Ken Casey, the band's anthemic sound and blue-collar ethos have made them a favorite among fans seeking a modern take on the spirit and energy of punk rock. Albums like Sing Loud, Sing Proud! and The Warrior's Code exemplify their unique fusion of styles and have helped to establish them as mainstays of the punk rock scene. With a dedicated following and unrelenting commitment to their craft, Dropkick Murphys continue to forge new paths while staying true to their punk rock roots.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Dropkick Murphys
      - "I'm Shipping Up to Boston"
      - "Rose Tattoo"
      - "State of Massachusetts"

    Dive Into Dropkick Murphys's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Worker's Song"
      - "Buried Alive"

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  • Ruts Dc
    34

    Ruts Dc

    302 votes

    Hailing from London, The Ruts emerged as a force in the UK punk scene in the late 1970s, seamlessly melding punk rock fury with reggae grooves to create a distinct sound that set them apart from their peers. Their politically-charged lyrics and powerful live shows quickly gained them a dedicated fan base and a reputation as one of the UK's most vital punk bands. Their debut album, The Crack, remains an enduring classic of the era, showcasing their innovative fusion of styles. Though cut short by the tragic death of vocalist Malcolm Owen, The Ruts' groundbreaking sound and lasting impact on the punk rock genre cannot be overstated.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Ruts
      - "Babylon's Burning"
      - "Staring At the Rude Boys"
      - "In A Rut"

    Dive Into The Ruts's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "S.U.S."
      - "Something That I Said"

  • Alkaline Trio
    35

    Alkaline Trio

    318 votes

    Founded in the late 1990s in Chicago, Illinois, Alkaline Trio quickly gained a devoted following with their unique fusion of punk rock energy, emo-tinged melodies, and dark, introspective lyrics. Co-fronted by singer-guitarist Matt Skiba and singer-bassist Dan Andriano, the band's distinctive sound struck a chord with fans seeking a fresh take on the punk rock genre. Albums such as From Here to Infirmary and Good Mourning showcase their skill at crafting infectious hooks and heartfelt, often macabre lyrics. With a career spanning over two decades, Alkaline Trio remains an influential and respected force within the punk community, inspiring countless acts to follow in their footsteps.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Alkaline Trio
      - "Radio"
      - "Mercy Me"
      - "Time to Waste"

    Dive Into Alkaline Trio's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Crawl"
      - "Dead on the Floor"

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  • The Offspring
    36

    The Offspring

    1,175 votes

    Hailing from Orange County, California, The Offspring rose to prominence in the early 1990s with their infectious blend of punk rock energy and pop sensibilities. Led by vocalist and guitarist Dexter Holland, the band's catchy hooks, driving rhythms, and razor-sharp lyrics quickly gained them a massive fan base, propelling them to the forefront of the punk rock resurgence. Their breakthrough album, Smash, remains one of the best-selling independent records of all time and solidified their status as punk rock mainstays. With a career spanning over three decades and numerous chart-topping singles to their name, The Offspring continue to be a dominant force within the genre, influencing countless musicians and delighting fans across the globe.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Offspring
      - "Come Out and Play"
      - "Self Esteem"
      - "The Kids Aren't Alright"

    Dive Into The Offspring's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Genocide"
      - "Session"

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  • X
    37

    X

    588 votes

    Hailing from Los Angeles, X emerged as a pioneering force in the American punk scene in the late 1970s, with their unique fusion of punk rock, rockabilly, and poetic, often dark lyrics setting them apart from their peers. Co-fronted by Exene Cervenka and John Doe, the band's signature blend of male and female vocals and innovative musical stylings earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Their classic debut album, Los Angeles, remains an essential part of any punk rock enthusiast's collection and showcases their lasting influence on the genre. As one of the most revered and respected bands in the punk rock pantheon, X's enduring appeal is a testament to their groundbreaking sound and unyielding spirit.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From X
      - "Los Angeles"
      - "Johnny Hit and Run Paulene"
      - "We're Desperate"

    Dive Into X's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Blue Spark"
      - "Adult Books"

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  • Anti‐Flag
    38

    Anti‐Flag

    491 votes

    Formed in the late '80s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Anti-Flag has been on the forefront of the political punk movement for over two decades. With a relentless, high-energy sound packed with thought-provoking messages about social injustices and government corruption, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of punk rock while staying true to its core ethos. Albums like Die for the Government and The Terror State showcase their unwavering commitment to activism and challenging the status quo. As one of the most outspoken and influential bands in the punk rock community, Anti-Flag's passion for political change continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Anti  -Flag
      - "Die for the Government"
      - "This is The End (For You My Friend)"
      - "Turncoat"

    Dive Into Anti  -Flag's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Consumer's Song"
      - "Underground Network"

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  • Henry Rollins
    39

    Henry Rollins

    603 votes

    A true icon of punk rock, Henry Rollins is best known for his tenure as the frontman for legendary hardcore punk band Black Flag in the early 1980s. With an intense, ferocious stage presence and thought-provoking lyrics, Rollins helped define the aggressive sound and social activism that became synonymous with the hardcore punk movement. After leaving Black Flag, Rollins continued to make music with the Rollins Band, exploring new sonic territories while maintaining his commitment to the punk rock spirit. As an author, public speaker, and cultural commentator, Henry Rollins remains an influential figure within the punk rock scene and beyond, inspiring countless musicians and fans with his unwavering dedication to personal expression and social justice.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Henry Rollins
      - "Liar"
      - "Low Self Opinion"
      - "Do It"

    Dive Into Henry Rollins's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Disconnect"
      - "Tearing"

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  • Goldfinger
    40

    Goldfinger

    389 votes

    Emerging from the Southern California punk scene in the mid-1990s, Goldfinger quickly gained a devoted following with their unique blend of punk rock, ska, and infectious pop hooks. Led by charismatic frontman John Feldmann, the band's ability to craft catchy, high-energy tunes earned them a place on the soundtrack for many fans of the era. Their self-titled debut album remains a classic of the '90s punk rock revival, showcasing their skill at capturing the spirit of punk with a modern twist. With a career spanning over two decades and numerous successful albums under their belt, Goldfinger continues to delight fans with their energetic, melodic approach to punk rock.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Goldfinger
      - "Here In Your Bedroom"
      - "Superman"
      - "Mable"

    Dive Into Goldfinger's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Only a Day"
      - "Spokesman"

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  • Against Me!
    41

    Against Me!

    374 votes

    Formed in Gainesville, Florida, in the late 1990s, Against Me! quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live shows and politically charged, folk-tinged punk rock sound. Fronted by the passionate and powerful Laura Jane Grace, the band's music tackles a wide range of topics such as personal identity, social injustice, and political activism. Albums like Reinventing Axl Rose and Transgender Dysphoria Blues showcase the band's commitment to breaking down barriers and pushing the boundaries of the punk rock genre. With a dedicated fan base and an unwavering commitment to their core values, Against Me! continues to forge their own unique path in the world of punk rock.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Against Me!
      - "Thrash Unreal"
      - "I Was a Teenage Anarchist"
      - "Sink, Florida, Sink"

    Dive Into Against Me!'s History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Don't Lose Touch"
      - "Baby, I'm An Anarchist!"

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  • The Gun Club
    42

    The Gun Club

    311 votes

    Formed in Los Angeles in the late 1970s, The Gun Club forged a unique path in the punk rock scene with their innovative blend of punk, blues, and rockabilly influences. Led by the enigmatic Jeffrey Lee Pierce, the band's distinctive sound and emotionally charged lyrics resonated with fans seeking an alternative to the more traditional punk fare of the era. Their seminal debut album, Fire of Love, remains a classic work that showcases their groundbreaking fusion of styles and powerful, raw energy. Though their time together was marked by lineup changes and personal struggles, The Gun Club left an indelible mark on the punk rock landscape, with their passionate spirit and trailblazing sound continuing to inspire musicians and fans alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From The Gun Club
      - "Sex Beat"
      - "She's Like Heroin to Me"
      - "Fire Spirit"

    Dive Into The Gun Club's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Cool Drink of Water"
      - "For the Love of Ivy"

  • Murphy's Law
    43

    Murphy's Law

    289 votes

    Hailing from New York City in the early 1980s, Murphy's Law emerged as a driving force within the hardcore punk scene, blending elements of punk, ska, and metal into a potent mix that resonated with fans seeking a fresh take on the genre. Led by frontman Jimmy Gestapo, the band's high-energy performances and unapologetic attitude earned them a dedicated following both in the US and abroad. Their self-titled debut album showcases their unique blend of styles and remains a classic work within the hardcore punk canon. As one of the most enduring bands within the New York punk scene, Murphy's Law continues to captivate and inspire fans with their relentless energy and commitment to the punk rock ethos.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Murphy's Law
      - "Beer"
      - "A Day in the Life"
      - "Panty Raid"

    Dive Into Murphy's Law's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Someone's Gonna Get Their Head Kicked in Tonight"
      - "Sit Home & Rot"

  • MxPx
    44

    MxPx

    377 votes

    Formed in Bremerton, Washington, in the early 1990s, MxPx carved out a niche for themselves in the punk rock scene with their fast-paced, melodic brand of skate punk. Led by vocalist and bassist Mike Herrera, the band's youthful energy and catchy hooks quickly earned them a devoted fan base and widespread acclaim. Their breakthrough album Life in General remains a touchstone of the '90s punk rock revival and solidified their status as mainstays of the genre. With a career spanning over 25 years and an unwavering commitment to their music and fans, MxPx continues to be a dominant force within the punk rock community.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From MxPx
      - "Punk Rawk Show"
      - "Chick Magnet"
      - "Responsibility"

    Dive Into MxPx's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Cold and All Alone"
      - "PxPx"

  • Slime
    45

    Slime

    231 votes

    Emerging from the German punk scene in the late 1970s, Slime quickly gained a reputation for their raw, politically charged brand of punk rock that tackled issues such as fascism, police brutality, and social injustice head-on. Fronted by vocalist Michael "Elf" Mayer, the band's ability to combine powerful, driving music with thought-provoking lyrics made them one of Germany's most influential and respected punk acts. Albums like Slime I and Die Toten Wollen Wieder Allein Sein showcase their fierce dedication to activism and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of the punk rock genre. With their enduring influence on both international and local punk communities, Slime stands as a testament to the power of punk rock as a vehicle for social change.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Slime
      - "Wir Wollen Keine Bullenschweine"
      - "Legal, Illegal, Scheissegal"
      - "Yankees Raus"

    Dive Into Slime's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "A.C.A.B."
      - "Zu Kalt"

  • F*cked Up
    46

    F*cked Up

    254 votes

    Formed in Toronto, Canada, in the early 2000s, F*cked Up broke new ground in the punk rock scene with their unique fusion of hardcore, experimental rock, and melodic pop sensibilities. Led by the charismatic frontman Damian Abraham, the band's ambitious, often sprawling compositions and thought-provoking lyrics earned them widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Their 2008 opus The Chemistry of Common Life won the prestigious Polaris Music Prize and showcased their impressive range and creativity. With their willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventions, F*cked Up remains an innovative and essential force within the punk rock landscape.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From F*cked Up
      - "Queen of Hearts"
      - "Hidden World"
      - "The Other Shoe"

    Dive Into F*cked Up's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Let Her Rest"
      - "Son the Father"

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  • L7
    47

    L7

    575 votes

    Hailing from Los Angeles in the late 1980s, L7 forged a path for women in the punk rock scene with their aggressive, grunge-infused sound and unapologetic feminist stance. Co-fronted by Donita Sparks and Suzi Gardner, the band's powerful, riff-heavy music and provocative lyrics resonated with fans seeking a fresh voice in the male-dominated world of punk rock. Albums like Bricks Are Heavy showcase their unique blend of punk, metal, and grunge influences, with tracks like "Pretend We're Dead" solidifying their reputation as trailblazers within the genre. With their enduring influence and commitment to empowering women within the punk rock community, L7's status as punk rock icons is indisputable.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From L7
      - "Pretend We're Dead"
      - "Sh*tlist"
      - "Everglade"

    Dive Into L7's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Riding with a Movie Star"
      - "Can I Run"

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  • My Chemical Romance
    48

    Formed in New Jersey in the early 2000s, My Chemical Romance gained a devoted following with their unique brand of emo-tinged punk rock, characterized by soaring melodies, introspective lyrics, and theatrical stage performances. Fronted by the charismatic Gerard Way, the band's innovative fusion of punk, goth, and alternative rock elements resonated with fans seeking an alternative to the mainstream. Their groundbreaking album The Black Parade remains an essential work within the punk rock canon and showcases their impressive range and creativity. Though their time together was relatively short-lived, My Chemical Romance's lasting impact on the punk rock landscape is undeniable, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From My Chemical Romance
      - "Welcome to the Black Parade"
      - "Helena"
      - "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)"

    Dive Into My Chemical Romance's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "Summertime"
      - "Save Yourself, I'll Hold Them Back"

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  • The Queers
    49

    The Queers

    331 votes
    The Queers are an American punk rock band, formed in 1981 by the Portsmouth, New Hampshire, native Joe Queer, along with Scott Gildersleeve (a.k.a. Tulu), and Jack Hayes (a.k.a. Wimpy Rutherford). With the addition of Keith Hages in 1982 the band started playing their first live shows. The band originally broke up in late 1984, but reformed with Joe Queer and a new line-up in 1986. In 1990, the band signed with Shakin' Street Records and released their first album Grow Up. The album earned the band notability within New England, but with the release of their next album 1993's Love Songs for the Retarded, on Lookout! Records, their following grew larger.In 2006, after releasing six albums on Lookout! Records, the band rescinded their master rights from the label, citing breach of contract over unpaid royalties. Later that year they signed with Asian Man Records. The Queers' cover of "Wipe Out" was featured in the 2007 Columbia Pictures and ImageWorks Studios mockumentary film Surf's Up, produced by Sony Pictures Animation and National Geographic Films.
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  • Gogol Bordello
    50

    Formed in New York City in the late 1990s, Gogol Bordello's unique fusion of punk rock, gypsy, and Eastern European musical influences quickly set them apart from the rest. Fronted by the charismatic Eugene Hütz, the band's wild, high-energy live shows and eclectic, genre-defying sound resonated with fans seeking a fresh, innovative take on punk rock. Their albums, such as Gypsy Punks: Underdog World Strike and Trans-Continental Hustle, showcase their unparalleled ability to blend diverse musical styles into a cohesive, infectious sound. Gogol Bordello's tireless commitment to innovation and their unapologetic embrace of their unique identity have solidified their place as one of the most distinctive and influential acts in punk rock history.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Gogol Bordello
      - "Start Wearing Purple"
      - "Wonderlust King"
      - "Trans  -Continental Hustle"

    Dive Into Gogol Bordello's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "When Universes Collide"
      - "Break the Spell"

  • John Doe
    51

    John Doe

    339 votes
    John Nommensen Duchac (born February 25, 1953), known professionally as John Doe, is an American singer, songwriter, actor, poet, guitarist and bass player. Doe co-founded LA punk band X, of which he is still an active member. His musical performances and compositions span rock, punk, country and folk music genres. As an actor, he has dozens of television appearances and several movies to his credit, including the role of Jeff Parker in the television series Roswell. In addition to X, Doe performs with the country-folk-punk band the Knitters and has released records as a solo artist. In the early 1980s, he performed on two albums by the Flesh Eaters.
  • Something Corporate
    52

    Hailing from Southern California, Something Corporate emerged in the late 1990s as a force in the emo-punk scene, blending punk rock energy with melodic piano-driven hooks and introspective lyrics. Led by singer-songwriter and pianist Andrew McMahon, the band's unique fusion of styles set them apart from their contemporaries and earned them a dedicated fan base. Albums like Leaving Through the Window showcase their ability to craft catchy, emotionally charged tunes that resonate with fans and critics alike. With their fresh approach to the punk rock genre and enduring influence, Something Corporate remains a beloved act within the emo-punk community.

    Rock Out To Some Of The Most Popular Songs From Something Corporate
      - "Konstantine"
      - "If You C Jordan"
      - "Me and the Moon"

    Dive Into Something Corporate's History With Some Unique Deep Cuts
      - "The Astronaut"
      - "Watch the Sky"

  • Green Day
    53

    Green Day

    6 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.
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  • Story of the Year
    54
    Story of the Year is an American rock band formed in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1995. The band was originally formed under the name Big Blue Monkey. They changed their name to Story of the Year in 2002 after the release of their EP titled Story of the Year on the indie label Criterion Records, after they realized a blues group of the name Big Blue Monkey had already existed. It would not be until eight years after forming that Story of the Year saw its first piece of commercial success in its major label debut, Page Avenue, containing the popular singles "Until the Day I Die" and "Anthem of Our Dying Day". A second album, In the Wake of Determination, followed in 2005, but did not achieve the commercial success of its predecessor. The band released their third album, The Black Swan, on April 22, 2008, which was their first release on Epitaph Records, followed by 2010's The Constant. On March 8, 2013, it was announced that the band reunited and are planning on a world tour. On September 30, 2014, it was announced in a Facebook post that bass player Adam Russell was leaving the band due to wanting to pursue his life plan that did not involve being in SOTY.
  • Patti Smith Group
    55
  • Nashville Pussy
    56
    Nashville Pussy is a Grammy Nominated American rock & roll band from Atlanta, Georgia. Their musical style has been variously described as psychobilly, Southern rock, hard rock and cowpunk, as well as "sleaze rock". The band's lyrical themes mostly revolve around sex, drugs, drinking, fighting, and rock 'n' roll. Initially called Hell's Half-Acre, the band's name comes from Ted Nugent's introduction to "Wang Dang Sweet Poontang" on the Double Live Gonzo album.Following the initial 1997 breakup of Kentucky cowpunk band Nine Pound Hammer, guitarist Blaine Cartwright formed Nashville Pussy where he would take up vocal duties in addition to guitar. The core lineup of Nashville Pussy consists of husband-and-wife duo Blaine Cartwright and Ruyter Suys (pronounced "Rider Sighs"), and drummer Jeremy Thompson, formerly of Austin, Texas' Phantom Creeps. Original drummer Adam Neal (Nine Pound Hammer) left to form the Hookers. Original bassist Corey Parks (sister of former NBA basketball player Cherokee Parks) quit one month after the release of the album High as Hell, and later joined Die Hunns. Tracy Almazan a.k.a. Tracy Kickass formerly of NYC's the Wives, and Helldorado was enlisted to replace Parks mid-tour. Nashville Pussy recorded Say Something Nasty with Almazan on bass only to be replaced by Katielyn Campbell (of the band Famous Monsters). Katie Lynn's image is on the album Say Something Nasty. Campbell was subsequently replaced by Karen Cuda for the album Get Some. Karen Cuda also appeared as bassist on the album "From Hell To Texas", and in the live DVD Live in Hollywood. Nashville Pussy have released six full-length studio albums, one EP and two live DVDs.
  • Say Anything
    57

    Say Anything

    215 votes
    Say Anything is an American rock band from Los Angeles, California. The band was formed in 2000 with Bemis and four of his friends. Within two years, they self-released two EPs, Junior Varsity and In Your Dreams, and the full-length Baseball: An Album by Sayanything. In 2003, the band signed with their first label, Doghouse Records. A year later, they released ...Is a Real Boy. To support the album, they picked up new members and began touring; however, despite rapidly growing critical and fan acclaim, Bemis' health problems, including bipolar disorder and drug addictions, sidelined the band in 2005 as five band members left during the year. Say Anything signed with J Records in 2005 and, following Bemis' successful rehabilitation, re-released ...Is a Real Boy on J Records. They went on co-headlining tours with Saves the Day in 2006 and Hellogoodbye in 2007. On October 23, 2007, the band released their third full-length album, In Defense of the Genre. In 2008, Say Anything went on a headlining tour across the US and UK and appeared on every date of Warped Tour. Their fourth album, entitled Say Anything, was released on November 3, 2009.
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  • Poly Styrene
    58
    Marianne Joan Elliott-Said (3 July 1957 – 25 April 2011), known by the stage name Poly Styrene, was a British musician, singer-songwriter, and frontwoman for the punk rock band X-Ray Spex.
  • X-Ray Spex
    59

    X-Ray Spex

    5 votes
    X-Ray Spex were an English punk rock band from London that formed in 1976. During their first incarnation (1976–79), X-Ray Spex were "deliberate underachievers" and only managed to release five singles and one album. Nevertheless, their first single, "Oh Bondage Up Yours!", is now acknowledged as a classic punk rock single and the album Germfree Adolescents is widely acclaimed as a classic album of the punk rock genre.
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  • The Squids
    60

    The Squids

    528 votes
    The Squids were a Chicago-based punk band that was created by Chicago born singer/songwriter Joey Spatafora and William LaTour also known as LaTour. The Squids broke up in 2005. and toured and recorded from 1990 to 2002. They performed the 6th Annual Chicago FreeFest. Other band members included Bolander Davis on guitar, Judy Johnson on bass, and Jimmy Vass on drums. The band later featured Emery Joe Yost on bass in 1994, Dave Hunt on drums in 1996, and keyboard player Scot Bahry who would sit in for LaTour when the latter was on tour to promote his solo albums.