There has been this notion that the category of pop punk has "died." Well friend, I am here to tell you that is not the case. Bands like Blink-182, Mayday Parade, All Time Low, etc., are still going strong creating music. People nowadays lean towards mainstream music that is only heard on the radio. As a society, it seems that no one is open or willing to try exploring such unique genres of music. This style of music tells a story, sometimes with loud or dramatic vocals.

That is where people turn their heads the other way. Just like any other genre, the artists are trying to tell a story. Pop punk has this way of captivating your soul with guitar riffs, screaming, multiple layers and more. I began listening to this genre quite a few years ago. Back when Linkin Park had just released their single, "What I've Done," and Fall Out Boy released "Thnks fr th Mmrs," that's what drew me in.

My mind recognized how different that sound was compared to any other song that was out. I went on a listening spree of countless bands that were categorized under pop-punk or just punk. It turned out to be one of my favorite genres and continues to be to this day. Pop-punk fans aren't in hiding and you'll find them just about anywhere. Try playing, "Welcome to the Black Parade," in a public place, it works every time.

While on this topic, I figured I'd share a few of my favorite songs in the pop-punk and punk category from over the years.

Those were just a couple of my favorites in the pop-punk genre. If I could, the list would be a little long...

For any fellow listeners of pop punk, you are definitely not alone. We are still out here thriving. I hope the song list makes some of you reminisce headbanging, blasting music in the car at midnight somewhere. Or go do that right now! With that I sign off.

Sincerely,

a fellow pop-punk advocate.