With a musical career spanning well over two decades, Green Day continues to be a musical force. Ever since I was a pre-teen I knew who Green Day was. From my babysitter showing me them for the first time in 2005 to when I saw them for the third time this July, I was hooked. Ever since I saw the music video for "Wake Me Up When September Ends" I knew that this was going to be my favorite band of all time.
Throughout my obsessive relationship with Green Day, I have listened to every single, B-side and collaboration that they have ever released or have been apart of. When they released the Broadway adaptation of their rock opera "American Idiot"; I got tickets right away when it hit Boston. With my expansive knowledge of their work, I have compiled my personal list of the 11 most underrated Green Day songs.
11. Top Honorable Mention: "J.A.R"- International Super-hits
This song may have not made the cut, but this lyrically beautiful song has a vocally monotone sound to it that crescendos into the bridge of the song. This song may not be the top; but it deserves recognition. The guitar solo in this song is also stunning.
10. "Dry Ice" - 1,039/Smoothed Out Slappy Hours
One of Green Day's most obscure songs comes in at ten on my list. This song became one of my favorite Green Day songs of all time because of its gritty garage rock sound. It has a nice poppy chorus that is super catchy. There is incredible vocal harmony between bassist Mike Dirnt and lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong that stands out from any other song on their first album.
9. "Pulling Teeth"- Dookie
"Pulling Teeth" comes in at number nine. This apathetic song about relationship abuse is one of the more calm songs off of "Dookie". This song has standout lyrics that depict a relationship on the rocks because of the emotional abuse the girlfriend is inflicting on the boyfriend. This song sheds light on emotional abuse inflicted by females which is sometimes overlooked, but extremely important. The relaxed guitar flows seamlessly with the drums.
8. "Brutal Love"- Tre
"Brutal Love" comes in at number eight. This emotional ballad could invoke tears from any weary listener. This song shows off lead singer, Billie Joe's extreme vocal range. The song is reminiscent of the 1960s and "greaser" days. Its simple guitar chords allow Billie to show off his skill as a vocalist. If you are ever lucky enough to hear them play this song live, you will be brought to tears.
7. "Armatage Shanks"- Insomniac
"Armatage Shanks" comes in at number seven. This song which is named after a British toilet company opens up with a hard hitting and unforgettable drum intro. This song is modeled after punk because of its quick pace, attitude, and passive aggressive lyrics. This song is 2 minutes and 18 seconds of pure speed.
6. "Viva La Gloria!" - 21st Century Breakdown
"Viva La Gloria!"comes in at number six. This song and album was a disappointment to lots of old Green Day fans, but one must look at this song without bias to truly appreciate its beauty. This song begins with a stunning piano interlude and picks up with the rest of the band around a minute in. The songs lyrics are scathing and politically charged. What is not to love?
5. "Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?"- Kerplunk
"Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?" is coming in at number five. This song is an upbeat song that alludes to "Catcher in the Rye". This upbeat song is about laziness and apathy for life. It's angst-y, upbeat and overall a catchy song. The drum rolls in the interludes are sharp and on the money thanks to the speed and agility of Tre Cool, an amazing drummer.
4. "Scattered"- Kerplunk
"Scattered" comes in at number four. This song from 1992 is about scattered pictures. Basically its about the past and reminiscing. The lyrics to this song are hard because it is something that everyone can relate with: moving on. This has a beautiful vocal harmony throughout the song. It is a happy and sad song with a nice upbeat pace. It is a song that would be perfect for a graduation.
3. "Homecoming" - American Idiot
"Homecoming" comes in at number three. This raucous 9 minute and 18 second song rocks hard and can make anyone cry. This song is the epic culmination and the death of the fictional character Saint Jimmy. Basically, this song is about cleaning up your life, dealing with stuff and returning home, or back to your roots. This song actually has five songs interwoven into each other. This song will surely inspire anyone who wants to rock out. Song three is "Nobody Likes You" and the lyrics are so angst-y you will feel like a teenager from "Twin Peaks".
2. "Jinx/Haushinka"- Nimrod
"Jinx/Haushinka" comes in at number two. This song is two songs that roll into one another. This song may come as a surprise because it does not have much substance lyrically. This song's intro has incredible drum tempo and speed. The guitar works so well with the drums and it is a very hard-hitting song. Billie's voice is slightly drawn out and haunting. There is something beautiful about the bridge that comes in at 2 minutes and 5 seconds into "Haushinka". "Jinx" starts off as a hard-hitting punk song which goes into the fun and catchy "Haushinka". These two songs combined into one are utterly magical.
1. "Christie Road"- Kerplunk
"Christie Road" comes in at number one! This perfect song about hanging with your friends at the local train tracks is an itemized list about teenage angst. This song can relate with anyone who has ever felt alone in this world. If you have ever felt like your parents don't understand you, this song is for you. This song starts slow with a simple yet recognizable drum intro. The song changes tempo and pattern at the end while Billie makes a statement towards his mother. The live versions of this song will chill you to the bone. This song is unbelievable and so is Green Day. Give this song the time and a listen; you are sure to love it!
Honorable Mentions:
"J.A.R"- International Superhits
"Forever Now"- Revolution Radio
"Ha Ha You're Dead"- Shenanigans
"Maria"- International Superhits
"Castaway"- Warning
"Macy's Day Parade"- Warning
