Best Rock Songs of the 2000s
The best rock songs of the 2000s feature a mix of early nu-metal and post grunge sounds, and they’re all still influential today. – Author: Anne Erickson, Image of the Evanescence, “Fallen” reissue album cover via Craft Recordings
It’s easy to think of songs that come from at least 50 years ago when it comes to the best rock songs of all time. Those decades has massive hits that are popular on rock radio to this day. But, some of the best rock songs of the 2000s are also gems. Just because these songs are newer, that doesn’t mean they rock any less. Besides, songs that come from the early-2000s aren’t new anymore. Some classic rock stations even play bands like Linkin Park and 3 Doors Down. In honor of the rock that came at the turn of the century, Audio Ink Radio presents its roster of the best rock songs of the 2000s, narrowing in on the early 2000s.
Best Rock Songs of the 2000s, an Era Filled With Post-Grunge
3 Doors Down, “Kryptonite”
3 Doors Down struck gold, or let’s say “Kryptonite,” with their 2000 hit “Kryptonite” off their debut album, “The Better Life.” It was an unexpected hit, because the Escatawpa, Mississippi, rock band really based the album off their homemade demos. This song was huge and is till a regular on rock radio. It’s a raw, real rock song with an empowering message.
Evanescence, “Bring Me to Life”
When Evanescence hit the scene with their 2003 album “Fallen,” they really created a new genre in the U.S. The whole female-led gothic, symphonic style of music was very popular in Europe at the time, with bands such as Lacuna Coil, but Evanescence made it a huge thing in the States. “Bring Me to Life” was the band’s first single off “Fallen,” and if this song had never taken off, it’s possible Evanescence would never have blown up like they did. But, this song was beyond huge, and it’s still a favorite among goth music fans. There’s no denying it’s one of the best rock songs of the 2000s.
Linkin Park “In the End”
Linkin Park changed the music world with their 2000 debut album, “Hybrid Theory.” The album introduced nu-metal to the masses and featured a unique blend of rock, hip-hop and electronics. It’s a classic and one of the most influential rock albums of the era. Single “In the End” took off big right away, and adolescent grabbed onto the theme of trying so hard but falling flat. Or, is it about grace? Either way, it’s a great song.
Nickelback, “How You Remind Me”
Don’t joke about Nickelback. They’re one of the most popular, mainstream bands to hail from the early 2000s. When “How You Remind Me” hit the airwaves in 2001, it took the radio world by storm. Nickelback’s unique blend of post-grunge and melodic rock simply appeals to a broad range of people, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Puddle of Mudd, “Blurry”
Let’s face it: The early 2000s were filled with bands that sounded a lot like Nirvana, and that’s okay, because that Nirvana sound is fantastic. One of those bands with the Nirvana style was Puddle of Mudd. Wes Scantlin sounded more like Kurt Cobain than any other vocalist at the time. “Blurry”, which arrived in 2001, was a heartfelt ballad that Scantlin wrote about his son. It’s simply a beautiful song and one of the best rock songs of the 2000s.
Staind, “It’s Been a While”
Oh, Stand. This band got big on rock radio with their 1996 rock hit “Mudshovel,” but they didn’t really gain the attention of the masses until 2001’s “It’s Been a While.” With Aaron Lewis and company on the Family Values tour, singing this with Fred Durst in the background, it was really a moment in nu-metal history. “It’s Been a While” is simply a heartfelt rock ballad that shows even hard rockers have a soft side.
Find more with Audio Ink Radio’s feature on the bands that defined the 2000s in rock and the best “dad rock” songs for a new generation.
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