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We can never resist a walk down memory lane, so here are 10 times alt musicians made appearances in TV shows. You can check those out below.

Avril Lavigne

Sabrina The Teenage Witch was a staple for Halloween lovers everywhere from the late ’90s to the early 2000s. Scene queen Avril Lavigne made an appearance on the show because Sabrina is a witchy teen, so of course she’d be a major fan. In iconic fashion, Lavigne performs “Sk8er Boi” for the make-believe audience, even though she’s being blackmailed by a trope of gangsters.

Death Cab For Cutie

Death Cab For Cutie were a central part of the storyline on The O.C., thanks to Seth Cohen’s obsession with the band. The show featured quite a few DCFC songs throughout the years. But eventually, the band appear on the show to perform a concert at the Bait Shop because it’d be a shame if they didn’t.

Sonic Youth

The Upper East Side’s elite in Gossip Girl may not look like your typical alt-rock fans, but then Sonic Youth made an appearance on the show. The band played at a fancy New York City party, and the vibe actually fit perfectly on the show.

Sleater-Kinney

Indie legends Sleater-Kinney performed a rock show fit for the riot grrrls of The L Word back in its third season. Thanks to an awkward sexual encounter, their set was cut short. However, the snippet was like a glimpse at one of the band’s old-school live performances.

Alice Cooper

That ’70s Show was the peak stoner TV show back in the 2000s and even featured a cameo from rock icon Alice Cooper. Eric Forman worried that his girlfriend Donna Pinciotti would leave him for a rock star like Cooper. And honestly, Eric didn’t stand a chance in competing against the eyeliner-clad rock legend.

No Doubt

While more than a few bands have performed for a stuffy Upper East Side crowd on Gossip Girl, No Doubt‘s appearance was markedly different. Fans see Lily van der Woodsen back in her ’80s heyday as she watched No Doubt perform an Adam & The Ants cover song, “Stand And Deliver.”

Prince

Honestly, it’s still amazing that New Girl got the one and only Prince to make an appearance on the show in 2014. As it turns out, Prince was a huge fan. The episode marked his first-ever role in a television sitcom, and he even had a hand in its design. According to creator Liz Meriwether, Prince wanted the party in the episode to imitate his real-life parties as closely as possible. Additionally, Meriwether revealed he picked Zooey Deschanel’s wardrobe, the paintings on the wall and the hairstyles, among other things.

Fall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy have performed twice as a band on One Tree Hill, which led to Pete Wentz becoming quite essential to the plotline for a few episodes. There’s even an episode named “I Slept With Someone In Fall Out Boy And All I Got Was This Stupid Song Written About Me,” which is very on-brand for the band.

David Bowie

While David Bowie has made a cameo on Twin Peaks, his role in a 2006 episode of Extras is truly one to never forget. Andy Millman attempts to grapple with his failed sitcom and confides in none other than Bowie about the situation. To make matters worse, Bowie wrote a song about the situation, referencing Millman as the “little fat man who sold his soul.”

Korn

Korn made a brief cameo on Monk in a pretty hilarious way in 2005. While Monk is putting the pieces together about a murder in a traffic jam, he needs to find a bathroom. He ends up at Korn‘s tour bus and has an eye-opening revelation, all thanks to the bathroom break.

See more: 10 most iconic music video looks

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Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, Foo Fighters vocalist Dave Grohl and pro surfer Kelly Slater were among the final guesses. However, The Masked Singer soon learned that the man behind the mask was actually Sugar Ray singer Mark McGrath.

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Orca joined season 5 of The Masked Singer as a wildcard contestant, which has been introduced this year. The secretive group of wildcard performers are taking the place of the third group of competitors and will be going up against the remaining contestants in Groups A and B. So far, four wildcard performers have been introduced into The Masked Singer‘s main group of contestants. 

During week three, Orca first performed Twisted Sister’s power anthem “We’re Not Gonna Take It.” This week, for episode five, Orca went on to perform Poison’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” which he dedicated to his late father. However, the emotional set wasn’t enough to keep the sea creature from being voted off the show April 14.

For his first clue package, Orca kept things very pizza-related with a “today’s specials” sign that featured lemon pizza ($9), orange pizza ($4) and pumpkin pizza ($9). The masked contestant went on to say that when he was 24, he was “closer to becoming a punchline” than his goal of being a major rock star. 

As well, the Orca also revealed that he once hid audition tapes in pizza boxes and “delivered them all around the town.” He even made some ocean references when he said that his dad told him if he didn’t “make waves” by 25, he needed to move on from his dreams. Additionally, the clue package also included a cryptic clock that read 2:59. 

Read more: 10 lead singles from the 2000s that define these iconic album eras

Meanwhile, Orca’s second clue package was related to his late father. During the video, Orca said that he felt hopeless in an “ocean of tears” after his dad passed away. As well, he revealed that his dad’s final words to him were that he was proud of him “for being a dad above all else.” The final moment in the clue package showed Orca walking with his two kids.

Based on all of these clues, The Masked Singer judges had quite a few different guesses. During week 3, the show’s guest judge Joel McHale thought the masked contestant could be Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan. This was based on the fact that the clues package included the unusual pumpkin pizza 

Due to Orca’s narrative about losing his dad and being a father of two, both Thicke and Jeong guessed that Armstrong was behind the mask. As for McCarthy Wahlberg, she originally thought Orca could be Jon Bon Jovi. However, the water imagery and anecdotes about the ocean eventually convinced her Slater was Orca. 

Finally, Scherzinger stuck to her original guess that Orca was Grohl who also lost his father. As well, Orca’s rock-heavy vocals throughout the competition also led her to believe the Foo Fighters frontman was behind the sea creature. In the end, however, all of the guesses were incorrect and McGrath was the rock performer behind the mask.

McGrath’s reveal on The Masked Singer is available to watch below.

Read more: 10 times alternative artists reimagined their own tracks for the better

As it turns out, some The Masked Singer viewers caught on early that Orca’s true identity was McGrath. As mentioned before, in the first clue package, Orca revealed that he once put audition tapes in pizza boxes and sent them out across town. This story has actually already been publicly told before. 

Back in 2014, director and producer McG (Supernatural, The O.C.), who is a childhood friend of McGrath’s, recalled putting one of Sugar Ray’s music videos into a pizza box. Then, they sent it to the head of a record label where the band eventually signed a record deal.

“We made a music video and snuck it into a pizza box and sent it to the head of the record company,” McG said on Chelsea Lately. And they got a record deal.”

Of course, all of the other hints and cryptic facts in the clue packages led back to McGrath and Sugar Ray. The price of pizzas in the first montage relates back to Orange County, California’s area code “949” which is where McGrath resides. As well, the pumpkin pizza is a subtle reference to Smashing Pumpkins’ 2018 video for “Silvery Sometimes” which features McGrath. As for the clock which read 2:59, when converted to military time it’s 14:59, which is the title of Sugar Ray’s 1999 album.

Read more: 20 books written by or about women musicians to add to your reading list

Over the years, numerous talented musicians and performers have made appearances on both The Masked Singer and The Masked Dancer. Last year, Poison frontman Bret Michaels was unmasked as Banana on The Masked Singer. Soon after his elimination, he dropped some banana-themed merch in honor of his character on the hit TV show. 

Meanwhile, Body Count’s Ice-T managed to stump the judges’ panel during his time as Disco Ball on The Masked Dancer. After the judges guessed the person behind the mask was LL Cool J, Smokey Robinson, Paula Adbul or Lionel Richie, Ice-T was eventually unmasked in a truly surprising reveal.

In honor of McGrath’s surprise reveal on The Masked Singer, Sugar Ray’s classic “Fly” is available to stream below.

What are your reactions to Mark McGrath’s reveal on The Masked Singer? Let us know in the comments below.

There was something so anticlimactic about that, and that’s because TV fans aren’t accustomed to this kind of rip-off. When an episode of a series is described along the lines of “the gang goes to see (insert band here) in concert and chaos ensues,” we expect said band to not only be in the episode but to perform, too. No Peach Pit After Dark required. Here are 15 times they did.

Read more: These 10 SST Records releases defined ’80s punk and beyond

Anthrax – Married… With Children 

The earliest entry on the list, this episode of the groundbreaking Fox comedy aired all the way back in 1992, and, admittedly, the thrash-metal pioneers barely performed. But in “My Dinner With Anthrax,” said performance was never promised. It’s right there in the title: dinner with Anthrax. And any fan of the show knows a hot meal is hard to come by at the Bundy residence, so they just wind up trashing the place, right along with Christina Applegate’s Kelly, who won the titular contest. Interestingly, the episode took place only a few years after MTV held a contest where the winner would get just that: No, not dinner; Anthrax trashing their home. Art imitating life at its finest. 

Boyz II Men – The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air 

On this standout episode of Will Smith sitcom The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air, being the big shot from Philly he never stopped claiming to be—for six seasons—Will promises he can get Philadelphia’s a cappella princes to perform at a Christmas Eve christening. And does! Hey, they did have a Christmas record out at the time, 1993’s Christmas Interpretations. They had to promote it, right? Curiously, the Christmas record came out hot on the heels of their debut. While fans eagerly awaited their sophomore release, they opted for a Christmas compilation instead. But the wait for that next record would prove worth it, as II scored Boyz II Men two Grammys. 

En Vogue – A Different World 

The catch with the sultry R&B group’s appearance on NBC’s A Different World was that the quartet didn’t appear as En Vogue. Sure, they brought down the house with one of their biggest hits (“Free Your Mind”), but they did it as the nerdy grandnieces of first-time club owner Vernon Gaines (Lou Myers). He bought it at the behest of series regular Ron Johnson (Darryl M. Bell), also a newbie in the nightclub biz. The big, bulky glasses and other nebbish accouterments did little to hide the knockout factor, but that was part of the gag: giving these hymn-singing grandnieces tips on how to sling your hips, only for them to catch on real fast, was ’90s high jinks at its best. The only thing missing from the 1993 episode was one of them breaking the fourth wall and just winking at the audience.

Digable Planets – In Living Color 

That same year, Digable Planets lit the In Living Color stage up; no small feat considering the Fly Girls did it on the regular. Plus, the riotous Fox comedy rotated some seriously notable live acts such as Queen Latifah, Public Enemy with Ice Cube, Mary J. Blige, Naughty By Nature and more. Digable served up “Rebirth Of Slick (Cool Like Dat)” just right, earning themselves a slot on many a best-of special regarding the series and lists highlighting the show’s live performances. What’s really noteworthy is that Digable performed the tune prior to their debut record even being released, and the song went on to score them a Grammy. 

Juliana Hatfield – My So-Called Life 

Juliana Hatfield was all the rage circa 1994, and so was the will they or won’t they as it pertained to Angela Chase and Jordan Catalano in My So-Called Life. The latter, played by eventual Oscar-winner Jared Leto, would prove much more than teen magazine cover boy in record time (pun intended, as his fronting of Thirty Seconds To Mars was just a few years off), even if this fantastic show was somehow canceled after only one season. Star Claire Danes would be on the silver screen opposite Leo DiCaprio (in Romeo + Juliet of all things) in just a couple of years, but for a minute, in ’94, this small screen Romeo & Juliet stopped down from Catalano’s songwriting long enough for Hatfield to play a homeless teen who can really play. 

The Flaming Lips – Beverly Hills, 90210 

Like we said, the Peach Pit After Dark was the place to perform if you were coming up in the ’90s. Booker Steve Sanders could spot talent a mile away. You just had to steer clear of the nights that Ray Pruit was owning the stage with songs such as “How Do You Talk To An Angel.” The Flaming Lips might just go down as the band that gave 90210 its proper street cred, even if this writer is partial to the lilting performance the Corrs gave in another episode. The Oklahoma rockers were actually booked by Valerie Malone (Tiffani Thiessen) and later commented about their performing the hit “She Don’t Use Jelly” on the show as being a bucket list type of thing to do because it was “absurd and funny.” Despite the episode this took place on, 1995’s “Love Hurts,” it was.   

Powerman 5000 – Beverly Hills, 90210 

Another excellent 90210 artist cameo is Powerman 5000’s the following year, on 1996’s “The Big Hurt.” 5000 don’t perform at the Peach Pit After Dark and are a secondary storyline to Tara kidnapping Kelly for a “bestie murder-suicide.” The rockers were just coming off a successful stint on the second stage for Ozzfest when approached to be part of a storyline, where fledgling video director Donna Martin (who almost didn’t graduate high school) shoots the video for their hit single “Strike The Match.”

10,000 Maniacs – Sabrina The Teenage Witch 

In season 2 of Sabrina The Teenage Witch, 10,000 Maniacs performed their hit “Rainy Day.” This TV appearance is interesting in many ways, especially as the Maniacs brought legit street cred to a decidedly different Sabrina than the one we got on Netflix. The catch is, this was after Natalie Merchant left the band, with replacement Mary Ramsey out front. From Love Among The Ruins, “Rainy Day” was one of two well-received singles, with the other being a cover of Roxy Music’s classic “More Than This.” It’s an underrated album in the band’s catalog, but Maniacs’ presence on the soundtrack to the lighthearted sitcom really lends credence to it. 

The Cranberries – Charmed 

Man, wouldn’t “Zombie” have not only been fitting on Charmed but also simply rocked? Even “Linger” would have worked on so many levels. But in 1999, fans of the series—or of the band who tuned in to the episode—got the Irish rockers performing “Just My Imagination” on the episode “She’s A Man, Baby, A Man!” Yes, that was actually the name of the episode, and the storyline completely reflects it. Middle witch sister Piper buying a San Francisco nightclub, the P3, ultimately only invited more danger into the coven. Aaron Spelling’s Charmed had its truly dark, even frightening episodes, and then others that were complete camp. This was a unique outing where it was somewhere between the two, with the Cranberries playing, the glorious Dolores O’Riordan out front, promptly stealing the show from a dancing Alyssa Milano.  

Bif Naked – Buffy The Vampire Slayer 

Bif with Buff! Rarely ever less than 100% entertaining, Buffy The Vampire Slayer brought on Bif Naked to perform at a UC Sunnydale party in a season 4 episode in 1999. What’s more, they didn’t do the age-old less than half the song before returning to the story arch thing. The Canadian singer-songwriter performed a staggering three songs on the episode: “Moment Of Weakness,” “Anything” and “Lucky.” All three songs off I Bificus, she taped the episode smack dab in the middle of her biggest tour to date, across Canada. But only one track, “Lucky,” made it onto the hit series’ official soundtrack. 

Avril Lavigne – Sabrina The Teenage Witch 

Melissa Joan Hart’s Sabrina had a table right up front (and lethargically mouthed the lyrics) as Avril Lavigne rocked out to her anthem “Sk8er Boi” to a room full of curiously seated young people in season 7 of the WB mega-hit. It was a hit-meeting-hit moment, wherein the ascending Canadian rocker deemed TV’s most popular witch worthy of her awesomeness. In “Bada-Ping!,” the rock star is being blackmailed by gangsters, and Sabrina winds up in both the same predicament and at the concert where Lavigne performs. Fortunately, it’s all sewn up in a record 22 minutes, witchcraft notwithstanding. 

Smash Mouth – Charmed 

Performing at KQSF’s raucous (by Spelling standards) Beach Bash in the season 6 premiere of the series, Smash Mouth served up their latest single, “You Are My Number One,” off the 2003 release, Get The Picture?, to a group of oiled-up beach bums. No, technically they didn’t perform at P3 (like, say, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo), but they did have to sign on the dotted line with Piper just the same. The Halliwell sisters didn’t get to have fun dancing the night away like they did when the Cranberries played either, but it was still obtained ratings. “Valhalley Of The Dolls: Part 1” did what Charmed did best: kicked off a new season with a cliffhanger. 

Death Cab For Cutie – The O.C. 

The Fox smash hit had a thing for existential alt-rockers Death Cab For Cutie, and why wouldn’t they? They had their own Holden Caulfield in the existential Seth Cohen (played impeccably by Adam Brody). Surely he’d gravitate more to the band behind “We Have The Facts And We’re Voting Yes” and “Transatlanticism” than the more straight-forward Phantom Planet, who offered up that infectious theme song, “California.” Cohen has a death grip on Death Cab, constantly referencing them and quoting lyrics, many times while sitting beneath the poster of them that graced his bedroom wall. The Seattle band’s music made its way onto the show many a time before the band physically did when they performed “Title And Registration” and “The Sound Of Settling” at The Bait Shop toward the end of the second season.   

Sonic Youth – Gossip Girl 

Thurston Moore let it be known that he was down with Gossip Girl (presently in the throes of its own reboot) when he recorded a Ramones cover (“Sheena Is A Punk Rocker”) specifically for the show. That’s all it took for all of Sonic Youth to be invited onto the show during its third season. It was heavily promoted, and in all the right places, largely due to it being so not Sonic Youth. They did an acoustic cover of their hit “Starpower,” which added to the already considerable gravitas. Sure, they’d already lent their voices to an episode of The Simpsons, but everyone says yes to The Simpsons, and there was even a curious Gilmore Girls appearance, but this was a big deal. They may not be Chuck Bass, but they are Sonic Youth. 

No Doubt – Gossip Girl 

What makes Orange County ska/rock royalty No Doubt’s performance on Gossip Girl easily one of the most memorable “bands performing on a TV series” moments on this list is that they’re performing at a funky club on the outskirts of their usual Manhattan stomping grounds, and it’s an ’80s-themed night. What’s more, they trot out a killer rendition of the Adam & The Ants ’80s opus “Stand And Deliver,” a staple on MTV during its formative years. That fact was probably lost on many of those watching at home, as is the fact that the song title inspired a hit ’80s flick of the same name. Still, it was 2009. Gwen Stefani was back with the boys, prepping for their reunion record of sorts, Push And Shove, and we haven’t gotten any new No Doubt since. Hey baby, we’re ready.

While it’s apparent that pop punk began a definitive era 20 years ago, it’s also played a role in influencing the genre-fluid trends that we see musicians currently experimenting with in 2020. So let’s take a look back at the glory days of pop punk with 40 essential albums from the 2000s. 

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A Day To Remember – Homesick 

Produced by New Found Glory’s Chad Gilbert, A Day To Remember’s Homesick was recorded in their studio in Ocala, Florida. One listen to “The Downfall Of Us All” and you’ll understand why this record propelled the band to instant popularity. It didn’t hurt that the album featured many special guests from the likes of Mike Hranica (the Devil Wears Prada), Vincent Bennett (the Acacia Strain) and Sierra Kusterbeck (VersaEmerge), with many of the songs actually surfacing on Myspace prior to the official drop. Homesick featured less aggressive songs, touching on the trials and tribulations of touring that many don’t talk about. The newfound softness of this album allowed fans to view ADTR in a completely different light. 

Alkaline Trio – From Here To Infirmary

The third album from Alkaline Trio was completely show-stopping. Inspired by the phrase “from here to eternity,” From Here To Infirmary took on a new meaning with its fiery composition and reckless identity. This record proved to be a real turning point for the Trio, allowing them to undoubtedly come into their own and establish themselves as more of a rock band. As their first release under Vagrant Records, it proved to be a heavy-hitter that solidified their sound. From Here To Infirmary successfully showcased their unique sense of humor, memorable transitions and addicting energy. The result allowed them to become a blazing force with their new music.

The All-American Rejects – Move Along

Move Along was only the second album from the All-American Rejects. It gained much recognition from “Dirty Little Secret,” “Move Along,” “It Ends Tonight” and “Top Of The World.” With themes revolving around heartbreak and loneliness, Move Along attracted audiences who wanted to get deep in their feelings while also rocking out to great tunes. The catchy choruses and overall feel-good sound of this album resulted in its ultra-success while also landing spots in television shows and movies, including One Tree Hill, She’s The Man and Smallville. With their likability at an all-time high, the All-American Rejects were in for the ride of their life. 

All Time Low – So Wrong, It’s Right 

So Wrong, It’s Right was released through Hopeless Records in 2007, and it’s still a staple 13 years later. The iconic “Dear Maria, Count Me In” led the All Time Low to the top while still embodying classic pop-punk. So Wrong, It’s Right consists of a healthy mix of upbeat bangers (“Poppin’ Champagne”) and breathtaking ballads (“Remembering Sunday” featuring Juliet Simms) that perfectly satisfy their fans.

Allister – Last Stop Suburbia

Released under Drive-Thru Records in 2002, Allister satisfied fans with Last Stop Suburbia and ended up selling over 80,000 copies. Last Stop Suburbia was four months behind their original release date but eventually delivered fast-paced pop punk that people just had fun listening to. Craving an escape from reality, Allister succeeded in transporting listeners into a happy, carefree state of mind. Fan favorites from this pop-forward album included “Radio Player,” “Overrated” and “Somewhere On Fullerton.” The latter was even featured on Disney’s Extreme Skate Adventure. With that said, Last Stop Suburbia doesn’t fail to give us ultimate nostalgia today. 

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Anarbor – Free Your Mind 

Free Your Mind by Anarbor is loaded with catchy choruses, fulfilling harmonies and advanced themes that intrigued audiences. The band mastered the kind of music that your body subconsciously just starts moving to. One of the most popular tracks, “You And I,” appeared in Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins shown on Cartoon Network. Around that time, Anarbor also made a music video for “The Brightest Green.” Ultimately, the attention that they received for Free Your Mind greatly propelled their popularity to uncharted heights.

The Ataris – So Long, Astoria 

Inspired by The Goonies, which is set in Astoria, Oregon, the Ataris released fourth album So Long, Astoria in 2003. Songs such as “In This Diary,” “The Saddest Song” and “The Boys Of Summer” reflect on meaningful memories that spark nostalgia and spell out stories that tug on your heart strings, speaking on multiple near-death experiences that frontman Kris Roe had faced throughout his life. Straying away from typical topics, Roe drew from all aspects of his own personal experiences. It shaped the record into something that no one had ever heard. This maturity truly set the Ataris on another level that the world wasn’t ready for. 

Avril Lavigne  – Let Go 

In 2002, Avril Lavigne gave us “Sk8er Boi,” “Complicated” and the rest of her killer album, Let Go. The pop-punk LP told the story of her road to pursuing music, which captured millions of people who bought it. However, the making of this album wasn’t the smoothest ride, as Lavigne struggled to musically find her way. She wasn’t satisfied with songs such as “Complicated” lyrically because she felt it didn’t properly showcase her writing skills. Despite her concerns, it ended up being a major driving force to shape her into the star she is today. 

Bayside – Bayside

Bayside‘s 2005 self-titled album featured impulsive vocals and defiant drums along with several shining moments from guitarist Jack O’Shea. Typically known for their racing rhythms and energetic blasts, Bayside slowed it down in a rare instance, revealing emotion and vulnerability that fans didn’t get to see too often.

blink-182 – Take Off Your Pants And Jacket

After coming down from the success of Enema Of The State in 1999, blink-182 released their fourth album in 2001 called Take Off Your Pants And Jacket. The album’s title alludes to the act of masturbation, carving out a path for the adolescent and rebellious nature of the tracks. Once more, Take Off Your Pants And Jacket saw blink-182 pushing boundaries and using crass humor (see: “Fuck A Dog”) to win over listeners on their chart-leading album. With themes including teenage love, parties and issues that have followed them into adulthood, blink-182 didn’t fail to be lyrically unapologetic on this catchy classic.

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Bowling For Soup – A Hangover You Don’t Deserve 

A Hangover You Don’t Deserve by Bowling For Soup came in with all guns blazing in 2004. The album was praised and recognized for its exceptional writing and unconventional music videos. Their leading track and Top 40 hit “1985” solidified them as a staple in pop punk. With a Grammy nomination already under their belt, Bowling For Soup weren’t going to stop at anything to heighten their popularity. Their witty lyrics, head-banging breakdowns and wicked humor didn’t disappoint.

Boys Like Girls – Boys Like Girls

Classic teenage themes such as love, jealousy and breakups propelled this eponymous Boys Like Girls album to unbelievable heights. Popular songs such as “Thunder” and “The Great Escape” opened up opportunities, leading them to headline their own tour in 2007 called Tourzilla and co-headline a tour with Good Charlotte called Soundtrack Of Your Summer tour in 2008. On their debut, Boys Like Girls made the kind of songs that you don’t mind getting stuck in your head for weeks. Their straightforward pop-punk sound is completely effortless, drawing in listeners from the get-go. 

Cartel – Chroma 

Chroma’s rioting riffs, captivating chord progressions and motivating melodies set Cartel up as a force to be reckoned with. From high school friends to respected bandmates, they poured their heart and souls into their debut album, breaking barriers that they never thought possible. “Say Anything (Else)” and “Honestly” were inspired by personal events vocalist Will Pugh experienced, which pushed the album to sell over 3,000 copies in the first seven days of its release. If his heart-wrenching breakup triggered by his upcoming tour wasn’t enough, he found out that his ex-girlfriend was happy in a new relationship, which set him over the edge—but it resulted in a musical masterpiece.  

The Dangerous Summer – Reach For The Sun 

The Dangerous Summer’s Reach For The Sun encapsulated intimate thoughts and struggles, opening up in new ways that fans hadn’t experienced from the band—just listen to “Surfaced” and “Where I Want To Be” if you’re skeptical. Frontman AJ Perdomo’s crisp, clean vocals were just the cherry on top for this electric record, with the album catching the attention of new audiences across the globe and surprising those who were already fans as it became something they didn’t know they needed.

Dillinger Four – Civil War 

The making of Dillinger Four’s fourth album, Civil War, released in 2008 through Fat Wreck Chords, lasted for several years, which only heightened the anticipation for its initial release. The politically driven album spelled out unexpected transitions to ensure their audience was kept on their toes along with showcasing a modern maturity. Dillinger Four certainly delivered, and Civil War proved worth the wait. Clearly, the band had an unconventional process creating this record, but it eventually came out in its intended way. 

Read more: QUIZ: Which nostalgic pop punk song are you?

Fall Out Boy – Take This To Your Grave 

Debuting as a band signed with Fueled By Ramen never hurts, and on Take This To Your Grave, Fall Out Boy’s early pop-punk sound charted them high around the globe while boosting them to over a half of a million copies sold in the United States alone. With career kick-starting songs such as “Dead On Arrival,” “Grand Theft Autumn/Where Is Your Boy” and consistent set-closer “Saturday,” Fall Out Boy have proven that they’re absolutely eternal.

Four Year Strong – Rise Or Die Trying 

Only their second album, Four Year Strong broke barriers with their statement record Rise Or Die Trying in 2007. This album featured legendary tunes including “Heroes Get Remembered, Legends Never Die” and “Bada Bing! Wit’ A Pipe!” that sucked people in with their happy hardcore sound. Their grounding vocals and mosh-worthy moments are completely unparalleled, exposing an energy that cannot be contained. From their beloved hardcore screams to their sought-after breakdowns, Four Year Strong had everyone talking.

Good Charlotte – The Young And The Hopeless

Being only the second album by Good Charlotte, The Young And The Hopeless was a win. Their record label nearly dropped them due to the poor sales of their previous album, making this one essential for their career. Brothers Benji and Joel Madden,were responsible for writing most of the chart-shattering album, with recognizable tracks including “The Anthem,” “Lifestyles Of The Rich & Famous” and “Girls & Boys,” just to name a few. Even after cycling through three different drummers during The Young And The Hopeless era, their album seemed to conquer the crowds with its high energy, brash beats and true angst. 

Green Day – American Idiot 

The album that famously swept the nation was none other than American Idiot. After an unexpected lack of sales from their previous release, Green Day came back with a vengeance on their “punk-rock opera.” American Idiot tells a story of the “Jesus of Suburbia,” depicting young people growing up during turbulent times in the early 2000s. The politically-charged album made a long-lasting statement that’s followed the band throughout their career, and their immense success from American Idiot even led them to develop their own Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of the same name.

Hawthorne Heights  – The Silence In Black And White 

Hawthorne Heights debuted as a band in 2004 with their album, The Silence In Black And White, which was the highest-selling debut album for Victory Records at the time. Some of their famous songs from the album include “Niki FM” and “Ohio Is For Lovers,” giving fans a glimpse into their hometown lives. Their edgy lyrics and pronounced passion leveled up this record to an unprecedented standard. They knew what worked for them and perfected their sound even more through punching power chords and vivacious rock vocals. 

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Hit The Lights – Skip School, Start Fights 

Hit The Lights came out with their second album, Skip School, Start Fights, in 2008, which was a year after their original vocalist left. Although they experienced member shakeups, they still came out on top with songs such as “Drop The Girl” and “Don’t Wait” featuring All Time Low’s Alex Gaskarth. With lyrics referencing all things growing up and their trend-setting electronic nuances, Hit The Lights were ahead of their time. Although it caught some people off guard, their groundbreaking creativity spoke volumes.  

Home Grown – Kings Of Pop

Released in 2002 by Drive-Thru Records, Kings Of Pop was only the third, yet last, album by Home Grown. The band sneakily hid three additional tracks at the end of the album after “Disaster” to give their fans something special to hold on to since it would be their last time coming out with new music. Their satisfying sound and uncut edges empowered this diamond in the rough to shine bright that properly concluded Home Grown’s iconic musical legacy. 

Less Than Jake  – Anthem 

Anthem was the first album to include new member and sax player Peter “JR” Wasilewski, which began to shape them into the band we know today. To name the album, the members wrote down random words and crossed them off one by one until “anthem” was the last one left. Anthem goes against the grain, similar to the way they named the album. With the exceptional success of songs such as “The Science Of Selling Yourself Short” and “Surrender,” Less Than Jake had managed to one-up their already exceptional accomplishments.

Mayday Parade – A Lesson In Romantics 

Mayday Parade were born from combining Kid Named Chicago and Defining Moment. After some success with their first EP, they released their debut, A Lesson In Romantics, with Fearless Records in the summer of 2007. Its stellar production, captivating hooks and overall elevated sound deemed this record an instant win. In addition, the album was credited for its exceptional songwriting, brutally honest themes of heartbreak and broad range of emotion that fans of all ages can relate to at some point.

Midtown – Forget What You Know

On Midtown’s final album, Forget What You Know, the Gabe Saporta-fronted act successfully stayed true to their roots and delivered a product that fans could hold on to forever. Released without a record label, Midtown proved the strength of their independence and excited fans with an album full of pure punk. Comprising 15 tracks, the closer “So Long As We Keep Our Bodies Numb We’re Safe” packed an emotional punch as it clocked in at about 13 minutes and gave fans the ultimate parting. 

Read more: 10 scene song lyrics that probably wouldn’t have been sung in 2020

 Motion City Soundtrack – Commit This To Memory

Produced by Mark Hoppus (blink-182), Commit This To Memory by Motion City Soundtrack was released in 2005 through Epitaph Records. The band wrote a part of the album in their hometown of Minneapolis and finished it up in Los Angeles. During this time, vocalist Justin Pierre was in the midst of battling severe alcoholism, which made this writing and recording process anything but simple. Between balancing AA meetings and attending studio sessions, Commit This To Memory was filled with incredulous layers that granted the band newfound respect. Although it was a bumpy road, they managed to find some light by creating an album that even Pierre said was his favorite. 

The Movielife – Forty Hour Train Back To Penn 

The Movielife‘s third and final album, Forty Hour Train Back To Penn, was released through Drive-Thru Records back in 2003. The album was centered around different stages of relationships, calling attention to love, heartbreak and everything in between. The last hoorah for the Movielife wasn’t one to miss. Their East Coast twang and classic pop-punk sound that made them colossal left fans with an album to remember. 

New Found Glory – Sticks And Stones

Sticks And Stones is arguably one of the most popular albums by New Found Glory to this day despite it being released in 2000. In fact, it was so successful, it landed the band in American Pie 2. Legendary songs such as “My Friends Over You” and “Head On Collision” impressed audiences across the globe and even fellow musicians. It ended up catching the attention of four teenagers from Maryland who were inspired to call their band All Time Low as well as Mark Hoppus. The latter led New Found Glory to follow their release supporting blink-182 on one of their summer tours. 

The Offspring – Rise And Fall, Rage And Grace

After a near five-year hiatus, the Offspring came through with their eighth album, Rise And Fall, Rage And Grace, which was released through Columbia Records in 2008. The four strong singles from the album included, “Hammerhead,” “You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid,” “Kristy, Are You Doing Okay?” and “Half-Truism.” The album’s release led to the band being compared to Green Day and was recognized for its spitfire energy and unexpected ballads triggered from their time off. From exploring deep topics to expressing lighthearted emotion, the Offspring provided a diverse record that everyone could have a stab at. 

Paramore – Riot! 

Riot! gave Paramore the platform that rapidly launched them to fame. Having only been their second album, they blew the roof off with songs such as “That’s What You Get,” “Hallelujah” and, of course, “Misery Business.” Reflecting its title, the writing process for Riot! has been described as a consistent flow of uncontrollable emotions that led into this unforgettable record. The band poured urgency and passion into the album, leading it to its undeniable success. Riot! was Paramore’s ultimate breakthrough, which fans still worship today as if it was just released. 

Read more: Watch MGK and Travis Barker start a ‘Riot!’ with classic Paramore cover

Relient K – Mmhmm

Mmhmm was Relient K‘s fourth full-length, which was released at the end of 2004 through Capitol Records. Perfectly combining Christian music with punk, “Be My Escape” and “Who I Am Hates Who I’ve Been” launched the band into super stardom. Staying true to their religious roots, Mmhmm was entrenched with inspiring lyrics and uplifting melodies paired with pure optimism. Although their music portrayed an elevated mood, they managed to integrate a sense of realness throughout.  Having supported bands such as Simple Plan and Good Charlotte on tours during that time, Relient K truly set themselves up for success.

Set Your Goals – Mutiny! 

Set Your Goals dropped their first-ever album with Eulogy Recordings, Mutiny!, in 2006. Debuting their now-recognizable gang vocals and steady breakdowns, Set Your Goals came in as an explosive force in pop punk. On their debut, Set Your Goals strayed away from common themes of heartbreak and focused on more complex topics, including forced influence, risk-taking and authenticity that left people wanting more. This release was followed by several U.S. tours with bands such as Crime In Stereo and Ignite, including a European run with acts such as the Steal. It’s safe to say that Mutiny! truly put them on the map, and having been influenced by bands such as Lifetime and CIV, Set Your Goals were able to curate their own pop-punk-meets-hardcore sound that makes them so unique.

Simple Plan – No Pads, No Helmets… Just Balls 

On Simple Plan’s debut, it wasn’t hard for the album to catch the attention of many with hits including “I’m Just A Kid,” “Addicted” and “Perfect.” No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls exudes vibrancy and vigor while sharing relatable messages regarding relationships and anxiety. And of course, it includes their childish banter that we all know and love. With their star-studded album featuring blink-182 vocalist Mark Hoppus (“I’d Do Anything”) and Good Charlotte’s Joel Madden (“You Don’t Mean Anything”), it’s safe to say that Simple Plan made a major statement on their first-ever album, which set them up for the success they reap today.  

Something Corporate  – Leaving Through The Window 

Something Corporate’s Leaving Through the Window took a total of three months to record across two different states. The core of the album was built off the lyric “I want to save you,” which acted as the inspiration for the overall knockout. Not to mention, the band pleasantly surprised listeners with string instruments glimmering throughout. “I Woke Up In A Car,” “Punk Rock Princess” and “Hurricane” were some of the most notable tracks from this ageless album.

The Starting Line – Say It Like You Mean It

On Say It Like You Mean It, the Starting Line’s impressive lyrics and forward-thinking composition had everyone knowing their name. The songs on the album were equivalent to a friend helping you through hard times, which attracted listeners from all walks of life. It’s these feats that made the album a success and scored them opportunities to tour with New Found Glory, Taking Back Sunday, Yellowcard, Good Charlotte and more. Ultimately, Say It Like You Mean It‘s pronounced positivity and beaming beats curated their fanbase.

Read more: 15 classic scene compilations from Drive-Thru Records to ‘Punk Goes’

Sugarcult – Palm Trees And Power Lines 

Hailing from the Golden State, Sugarcult released their fourth album, Palm Trees And Power Lines, and it was an undeniable hit—with the album’s name being inspired by the classic California scenery. From party to professional, Sugarcult introduced their fans to a more mature and serious side of themselves through this record while still managing to have a blast along the way. Additionally, “Memory” and “She’s The Blade” were both featured on MTV following their release. 

Sum 41 – All Killer No Filler 

All Killer No Filler got the recognition it deserved with its diverse and dynamic nature. Hit songs such as “Fat Lip,” “Motivation” and “In Too Deep” took the pop-punk world by storm, and Sum 41‘s undeniably relatable lyrics successfully secured their long-lasting fanbase through their punk-rock journey. From writing one of the songs on the toilet to the album going platinum, Sum 41’s journey to this massive achievement was unique to say the least. Having been influenced by Green Day, All Killer No Filler allowed Sum 41 to truly establish their identity as a band with their pop-punk/skate-punk sound that makes them so recognizable. 

Taking Back Sunday – Tell All Your Friends 

Touching on mental health and relationships, Taking Back Sunday’s vulnerability pierced through on their debut album, Tell All Your Friends. Guitarist/vocalist John Nolan was open about how the album was based on true events. Specifically inspired by a newly ended friendship with Brand New vocalist Jesse Lacey, Tell All Your Friends had everybody talking. With fan favorites including “Great Romances Of The 20th Century,” “Cute Without The ‘E’ (Cut From The Team)” and “You’re So Last Summer,” Taking Back Sunday were able to stay plenty busy on tour following its release. 

We The Kings – We the Kings 

Formed back in high school, We The Kings wrote iconic songs such as “Check Yes Juliet” and “Skyway Avenue.” These were just some of the favorite tracks that came out of their self-titled album that started it all. This debut record infatuated listeners with vocalist Travis Clark‘s inviting tone and the band’s overall uplifting spirit. Audiences positively received their first album, stimulating the creation of a major Myspace fanbase. This held them through the test of time, even following the death of the social media platform.

Yellowcard – Ocean Avenue

Inspired by their sun-soaked hometown of Jacksonville, Florida, Yellowcard graced us with their fourth album, Ocean Avenue, in 2003. Most recognized for the title track, “Ocean Avenue” was ironically almost cut, as they were struggling to finish the chorus. This musical debut with Capitol Records ultimately catapulted their pop-punk sound into the mainstream. Songs from the album were featured on One Tree Hill, Charmed, Sleepover, Smallville, The O.C. and more. Clearly, it was ingrained in our brains during the early 2000s in the best way.

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Phantom Planet – “California”

When: Every season
Why it’s iconic: There is only one way to kick off a list talking about music on The O.C., and that’s with the track that began each show.

The All-American Rejects – “Swing, Swing”

When: Season 1, episode 1
Why it’s iconic: It was a peak mid-2000s move to have the Rejects be the soundtrack to Seth and Ryan jumping in the back of a jeep to go to a classmate’s party.

Fountains Of Wayne – “All Kinds Of Time”

When: Season 1, episode 5
Why it’s iconic: After being dragged to a party and missing his date with Marissa, Ryan makes it up to her with a poolside makeup date. The hang sesh delves into deep conversation and the eventual end up in the pool with all of your clothes on scenario, making this somber Fountains Of Wayne track the perfect choice.

Yellowcard – “Way Away”

When: Season 1, episode 5
Why it’s iconic: This one was a treat for those who caught the episode live in 2003 as Yellowcard premiered their video for “Way Away” on a commercial break. While you won’t be able to relive the moment while binge watching the series on Hulu, it totally counts as a memorable moment as this was Yellowcard’s first single from Ocean Avenue.

OK Go – “You’re So Damn Hot”

When: Season 1, episode 6
Why it’s iconic: Seth’s grandfather has a new girlfriend, and as if viewers couldn’t already read everyone’s mind, this OK Go track comes in with the assist as the woman in question exits a pool in slow motion.

Something Corporate – “Space”

When: Season 1, episode 7
Why it’s iconic: Like Yellowcard, Something Corporate premiered their video during a commercial break. The debut landed a month ahead of SoCo’s third LP North, which would also end up being their last.

Alkaline Trio – “We’ve Had Enough”

When: Season 1, episode 14
Why it’s iconic: With Seth’s parents out for a New Year’s Eve dinner, his aunt, Hailey, decides to throw a party. As it quickly grows out of control and with the desire to head to a party of their own, Seth and Ryan search the rager for Hailey to shut it down as the super appropriate “We’ve Had Enough” blares over the speakers.

Rooney performance

When: Season 1, episode 15
Why it’s iconic: Rooney were a token indie band for mid-2000s teen entertainment having also appeared as Fly Paper in 2001’s The Princess Diaries. Fast-forward three years where the group became the first of many bands to perform on The O.C., tackling originals such as “I’m Shakin’” and “Popstars.”

Beastie Boys – “Ch-Check It Out”

When: Season 1, episode 26
Why it’s iconic: Seth’s grandfather is getting married to Marissa’s mother (only in The O.C.), which means there have to be epic bachelor and bachelorette parties respectively. The guys choose Vegas, and the Beastie Boys blaring in the background is truly the only way to roll up to a hotel in a limo. The track plays again later as Ryan successfully wins a game of cards.

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