Blink 182 - A Band That Defines Pop Punk

When it comes to dominance in the pop punk genre of the music scene both in the United States and abroad, Blink 182 is one of the bands on top of the heap of would-be posers. One might say that the band's name will be mentioned in the blink of an eye whenever the subject of pop punk is mentioned in music industry circles.

In fact, such is Blink 182's dominance that it is widely recognized as one of the key pioneers in the genre that it is now cited by many contemporary bands as their great musical influence. And they have the album sales and awards to prove it.

Impressive Discography

At present, Blink 182 has five studio albums, four video albums and one compilation and live album each, with a total of 21 singles and 3 extended plays. Cheshire Cat was the debut album released in 1994, the year the band was formed. It was not successful although it was the start of fame for the band and its music. Dude Ranch, which was released in 1997, attained moderate success.

Enema of the State, debuted with a spot in Billboard 200's top ten. The song "All the Small Things" peaked at number 1 in the Hot Modern Rock Track charts, making it the most successful.

Take Off Your Pants and Jacket, released in 2001, is the only number 1 Blink 182 album in the United States as of this writing. The band's self-titled album, peaked at number 3 in the Billboard 200 when it was released in 2003. For many critics and fans, this is the band's most defining album to date.

A sixth album is in the works for 2010. It can be modestly said that the music scene awaits the latest collaboration between the band members of this popular band, which has sold over 25 million albums globally.

Constancy in Composition

Except for Scott Raynor, who was the drummer and percussionist of the band from 1992 to 1998 and was subsequently replaced by Travis Barker, the other two band members remained the same since 1992. These were Mark Hoppus on lead vocals and bass as well as Tom DeLonge on lead vocals and guitar; both were songwriters for Blink 182.

This tight-knit professional and personal relationship, which has spanned more than a decade, has resulted in numerous awards and nominations for Blink 182. Just to name a few of these recognitions:

* Teen Choice Awards - Choice Rock Group (2000), Best Rock Group (2001) and Choice Love Song (2004) for "I Miss You"
* MTV Video Music Awards - Best Group Video (2000) for "All the Small Things" in addition to other nominations for Video of the Year and best Pop Video
* MTV Europe- Best New Act (2000) and Best Rock Act (2001)

Although the music of Blink 182 has been variously described as pop punk, punk rock, punk revival and skate punk, one thing is not in question. Its music is as relevant today as it was more than a decade ago in terms of teen angst.