A Playlist for Reviving the Emo Era

Many of us had an “emo” phase in middle school. Whether we told our parents “it’s not just a phase” or not, I never really grew out of the music. As I’ve been into pop punk and “emo” music again recently, I’ve compiled my all-time favorite songs of the scene. Additionally, with the When We Were Young Fest happening recently as well, there’s no time like the present to get into pop punk music again.

1. “King for a Day” by Pierce the Veil (feat. Kellin Quinn)

Having an older brother meant that I was introduced to bands like Pierce the Veil and Sleeping with Sirens at a pretty young age. I’m definitely thankful for that. This collaboration and music video was iconic, as were many of SWS’s music videos.

2. “Jamie All Over” by Mayday Parade

This song is one of the only songs I’ve ever found that has my name in it, so I’ve developed a bit of an attachment to it. Also, the guitar really carries this song and goes so well with the vocals, which makes it one of Mayday Parade’s most iconic songs.

3. “If You Can’t Hang” by Sleeping with Sirens

Just like every young girl in 2011, I had a massive crush on Kellin Quinn, which is probably why Sleeping with Sirens will always be my favorite band in the genre. Kellin’s higher voice enables him to do many high notes, which makes SWS’s music interesting. Moreover, I can honestly say that I’ve liked every album that Sleeping with Sirens has released. This song is just one of the many great songs on Let’s Cheers to This.

4. “Voldemort” by With Confidence

With Confidence was such a cool group, but I sadly found out when writing this that they officially disbanded in 2022. While I haven’t listened to their other two albums, Better Weather is such a fun album, and this song is generally the most popular. Their sound is very classic pop punk with a heavy drum beat and an upbeat tempo.

5. “A Love Like War” by All Time Low (feat. Vic Fuentes)

I couldn’t assemble this playlist without including this song. Vic and Alex’s voices go so well together, which makes this another iconic collaboration of the time. Maybe it’s my love for Pierce the Veil that makes this one of my favorite songs.

This playlist is by no means comprehensive of all the bands of this era, but it definitely includes a lot of the major ones. Many of them are still making amazing music all these years later.