It's about time that I was able to write an article about my favorite band, Twenty One Pilots. I'm here to give you a little justification as to why I and so many other cult followers listen to them so adamantly, follow their every social media move, and have spent oodles of cash to see them multiple times live. This, is the list of ten great things about Twenty One Pilots.
1.) Their Meaning Behind Everything.
This one should be obvious to fans of one song or every song, but their lyrics, mannerisms, and overall demeanor means something. Actually, a lot of somethings. With the vocalist (Tyler Joseph) having depression and anxiety, he makes sure that anyone who listens to his lyrics or sees their videos/live shows can relate. For example, the two members can be seen wearing ski masks or other masks a lot, because A.) it is a metaphor for how everybody covers up something that they do not want others to see or worry about, and B.) to create a barrier between themselves and the crowd because of their personal anxieties.
2. They Bend Hella Genres.
Do you like Rock? They've got it.
Rap? They've got it.
Pop? Screamo? Classical? Progressive new age poetry read in an aggressive way? What's that you say...? There is noooooo way that they can span that many genres? Ohhh-oh-oh-oh my friend, you have yet to listen to their music.
3. THE LIVE SHOWS.
As a veteran of on of these spectacular, over the top, involving, wonderful, incredible, and amazing shows... I can tell you that they are worth every penny. Without ruining the surprises, I can tell you that there will be confetti, steam, dancing, jumping, climbing, and instrument changes. All in all, the hour or two that the boys are on stage will promise to be unforgettable.
4. The Interviews.
The two are super laid back guys, who rarely take these things seriously. They certainly reflect that in their interviews, which makes their fans get a kick out of every single one. Also, if you're lucky, they might play an acoustic version of a song and it will sound absolutely beautiful. Which brings me to the next item on our list...
5. The Acoustic Versions.
Most of the time, the music of the duo will consist of drums, piano, synth, bass guitar, and the ukulele. However, their is a rare occurrence when Tyler ditches the piano and big productions and just picks up the ukulele, and the result is amazing. Not only are these versions simplistic and calming, but easy to play for those with their own tiny, four-stringed guitar. If you ever find yourself bored on a warm day, throw a youtube playlist of these tracks on and enjoy.
6. They Interact With Fans.
This is quite possibly my favorite video on the internet from TØP, but that is unrelated. You know how most artists say "we wouldn't be here without you." or "we are thankful for every single one of you" well, these guys mean it. Now, before you all get your knickers in a bunch and tell me that all of those other bands do too, I agree with you, but they don't show it as well. These guys go out go their way to interact with fans and non-fans alike, and are always super friendly with those they meet. If you're lucky, you will get to meet them after or before a show.
7. The Unique Music Videos.
You all have no idea how hard it was for me to pick a video for this list, wow. This music video for their song Holding Onto You is a shining example on how they set their own own stage apart from other alternative artists. Using a blend of metaphorical imagery, darkness, and other elements, Twenty One Pilots are sure to wow you for at least two minutes.
8. ...The shows. Again. (I'm Sorry...)
I cannot stress the importance of seeing them live honestly. In fact, here is a clip of their performance. Gosh.
9. They Genuinely Care About Fans.
Just proof that they are super nice people who care about the well-being of others, here is a clip of Tyler stopping a show to make sure nobody would get hurt when a fan was becoming aggressive.
10. They Remember Where They Come From.
Not only do they visit home a lot and still live in the area of Columbus, Ohio... But they put on massive shows on every tour which has come to be known as the "hometown show" (of course). These shows are well known to be the best of the best, and often sell out first.
11. They Truly Worked Hard For Fame.
As this video shows, they started off playing in front of a literal handful of people, and only went up from there. Although, they did it all on their own which is truly impressive. It wasn't until 2012 that they signed to Fueled By Ramen, and even now they do most of their own producing and writing. Also, it shows that they hold on to the energy that they had preforming in front of that small group of people when they put on just as exciting of a performance in front of 12,000.
12. The Music. Duh.
Really, when it boils down to it, we really just love their music. Whether there is a fan who just loves Stressed Out or a fan who has been around since their self titled album, we are fans of the music these two create. Thank you, Tyler & Josh. |-/
12 1/2. This Gem.
Okay, so I know I said there would only be 12 items on this list, but any fan at one point in time has at least heard of this cover. There is no possible way that I would leave it out of this list. It is incredible and I highly suggest you watch it.
