The music genre punk is characterized by being a loud, fast-moving, and aggressive form of rock music, popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This article is for those that are already into punk and are looking to discover some more bands or for those who are new to the genre and are looking for ideas on where to begin.

1. The Clash (1976)

An English punk rock band that formed during the original wave of British punk, The Clash garners a deep respect for being one of the first punk bands. Although maybe more melodic than what many people consider punk, their songs still have many people tuning into their Spotify Station. Their three most well-known songs are Should I Stay or Should I Go, London Calling, and I Fought The Law.

2. Misfits (1977)

The Misfits are an American horror punk band. They are often credited with helping to create the horror punk subgenre by blending punk music with horror themes. Their top three songs are Last Caress, Where Eagles Dare, and Hybrid Moments.

3. Bad Religion (1979)

Forming in Los Angeles in 1979, Bad Religion became known for their lyrics that criticize religion and offer political commentary. Throughout the years, only the band's lead vocalist, Greg Gaffin, has remained the same (although most of the original members are back in the band but Gaffin is the only one that has remained forever). Some songs to get you started are Los Angeles is Burning, You, and Sorrow.

4. The Offspring (1984)

These guys are an American punk band that came out of Huntington Beach, California. They get you pumped up really quickly, so if you're trying to cut down on the coffee maybe try out The Offspring instead. They are one of the three punk bands credited with reviving mainstream interest in punk. Try listening to You're Gonna Go Far Kid, The Kids Aren't Alright, Pretty Fly.

5. Green Day (1986)

Nearly everyone knows who Green Day is and if you don't then you have probably been living under a rock. They are the band that rose like a phoenix just to roast Donald Trump at one of their concerts.They are one of the three punk bands credited with reviving mainstream interest in punk. If you haven't already heard them, listen to Basket Case, American Idiot, and Wake Me Up When September Ends.

6. Operation Ivy (1987)

Coming out of California, these guys are one of the first bands to mix hardcore punk and ska to give us the new genre of ska punk. They only released one album before breaking up, but they left a lasting impact on the punk scene. Try out Sound System, Knowledge, and Take Warning.

7. Anti-Flag (1988)

As the name suggests, they are well known for their political activism. They focus on anti-war, anti-imperialism, class struggles, human rights, as well several other issues that Americans have to deal with. Try out This Is The End, The Press Corpse, and Broken Bones.

8. Rancid (1991)

Founded by Tim Armstrong and Matt Freeman (both former members of Operation Ivy), they are one of the three punk bands credited with reviving mainstream interest in punk. For 26 years, they have retained most of its original fanbase. Now that is some loyalty. Check out Time Bomb, Ruby Soho, and Fall Back Down.

9. The Real McKenzies (1992)

These guys are a Canadian Celtic punk band, and if that doesn't automatically get you interested then maybe the fact that they run around in kilts will. They are credited as one of the founders of the Celtic punk movement. Check out Chip, The Tempest, and Drink Some More.

10. blink-182 (1992)

Blink-182 is an American punk band (sometimes referred to as a pop punk band but that really depends on when the song you're listening to came out). Check out All The Small Things, What's My Age Again, and Up All Night.

11. Dropkick Murphys (1996)

They are an American Celtic punk band from Massachusetts. These guys are known for their loud and wildly crazy shows. If you go to a show, you will leave drenched in sweat (some of it might actually be yours). Check out I'm Shipping Up To Boston, Rose Tattoo, and The State of Massachusetts.

12. Sum 41 (1996)

Hailing from Canada, their music makes you feel angry (although that can be said about most punk music). Check out In Too Deep, Fat Lip, and Still Waiting.