The Legacy of 2000s Rock

ePathfinderFeatureStacey Martinez

The Legacy of 2000s Rock

 Influence of y2k music

Music has inspired generations, and the rise of early 2000s rock bands is no exception. Famous groups of the time created an uproar in emo culture that influenced the era entirely. Through its nuanced lyrics, iconic members, and catchy rhythms, the dawn of the 2000s rock scene is one to remember.

The classical rock style drew inspiration from jazz, gospel, and blues by African Americans in the early 40s and 50s, taking on new forms in the 60s. The genre was a fusion of drums, electric guitars, bass, and other instruments to create its recognizably fierce sounds. Since its genesis, various artists pitched in with their unique rhythms, lyrics, and personalities. As the style evolved, so came an unfamiliar and exciting form of art to explore.

The 2000s rock movement turned heads in an era that was beginning to dry of material. But bands such as Rage Against the Machine paved the way for a new generation of artists. The songs of this time captivated listeners with their aggression and creative recording techniques influenced by their predecessors. Over time, the style defined its rhythmic section around grooves, angst-ridden lyrics, and low guitar tunings signature to their artists.

Some of the most identifiable names of the scene were Korn, Linkin Park, and System of a Down. Their influences of a political edge, crisp soundscapes, and ferocious vocals carved their legacy into rock and roll history. With an established big three came forth the next ensemble of iconic personalities to characterize the 2000s.

The pop-punk period is one still enjoyed by many emo veterans today. In the mainstream, there were bands such as Blink-182, Weezer, Green Day, and others. The artists took stadiums and record stores by storm with their impressive performances.

Some showed incredible range, such as Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams in Misery Business. Many moved hearts through powerful rhythms and lyrics like My Chemical Romance lead vocalist Gerard Way in Welcome to the Black Parade. In the memories of many, the songs of that decade heavily influenced emo culture and united fans globally through their unforgettable discographies. But as time furthered and the genre evolved, descendants of early rock bands carried on their legacy under new styles.

Bands of the 2010s would soon ascend to popularity and reshape their era of rock. The early 2010s was a time of experimentation, with Twenty-One Pilots’ refreshing tinge of storytelling through playful synthpop juxtaposed to heartfelt lyrics. Another behemoth of the period was a promising Swedish group, Ghost, with a fascinating corporation of lore and mystery surrounding its members.

Rock music has come a long way since its early roots in the 40s. Although it never became very defined, there is beauty to its versatility. The genre has found its way into the hearts of many and will continue to inspire through its changing faces.


Written by Stacey Martinez  | Graphic Designed by Stacey Martinez