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Band Timeline

1987

Formation of the Band in Rodeo, California

Green Day was formed in 1987 by childhood friends Billie Joe Armstrong and Mike Dirnt in Rodeo, California. Initially named Blood Rage, the band quickly changed their name to Sweet Children. Their early performances began in local venues, and they played their first live show on October 17, 1987. The original lineup included bassist Sean Hughes and drummer Raj Punjabi, but the band soon underwent lineup changes as they developed their punk rock sound influenced by the Bay Area punk scene.
1990

Drummer Change and First Album Release

In 1990, the band underwent a significant lineup change when drummer Tré Cool replaced John Kiffmeyer. This solidified the trio format of the band. That same year, Green Day released their debut full-length album, '39/Smooth,' on the independent label Lookout! Records. The album helped establish their presence in the punk community and showcased their energetic style and youthful angst. '39/Smooth' marked the beginning of their recorded legacy and set the foundation for their future success.
1994

Breakthrough with 'Dookie' and Mainstream Success

'Dookie,' Green Day's major-label debut released through Reprise Records in February 1994, brought them monumental success. The album's blend of punk energy and catchy melodies led to widespread acclaim and commercial success, selling over 20 million copies worldwide. Hit singles like 'Longview,' 'Basket Case,' and 'When I Come Around' propelled the band into mainstream fame. 'Dookie' revitalized mainstream interest in punk rock and became a defining album of the 1990s alternative music scene.
1995

Release of 'Insomniac' and Continued Success

Following up on the success of 'Dookie,' Green Day released their fourth studio album, 'Insomniac,' in October 1995. Though it did not reach the same commercial heights as its predecessor, the album was successful, reaching number two on the US Billboard 200 chart and receiving double platinum certification. Known for its darker and more aggressive tone, 'Insomniac' reinforced the band's presence in the rock world and further expanded their fan base.
1997

Release of 'Nimrod' and Hit Singles

Green Day's fifth studio album, 'Nimrod,' was released in October 1997. The album continued to explore diverse musical styles, featuring hit singles such as 'Good Riddance (Time of Your Life),' which became an anthemic song widely used in various media and ceremonies. 'Nimrod' peaked at number ten on the Billboard 200 and received significant acclaim for its musical experimentation, further solidifying Green Day's reputation as versatile punk rockers.
2000

Release of 'Warning' and Mature Sound

'Warning,' released in October 2000, marked a shift towards a more mature and reflective sound for Green Day. Peaking at number four on the Billboard 200, the album earned a gold certification, featuring more personal and socially conscious lyrics. Although 'Warning' did not achieve the blockbuster success of earlier albums, it demonstrated the band's willingness to evolve artistically and ponder deeper themes while maintaining their punk roots.
2004

Rock Opera 'American Idiot' Reignites Popularity

Green Day released 'American Idiot' in 2004, a politically charged rock opera that reignited their popularity with a new generation. The album topped charts and sold over seven million copies in the US alone, spawning hit singles like 'American Idiot,' 'Boulevard of Broken Dreams,' and 'Wake Me Up When September Ends.' 'American Idiot' was praised for its ambitious concept and social commentary, leading to a successful Broadway adaptation and earning multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Album.
2009

Release of '21st Century Breakdown' and Continued Acclaim

In May 2009, Green Day released '21st Century Breakdown,' a concept album continuing their exploration of social and political themes. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified double platinum. Singles such as 'Know Your Enemy' and '21 Guns' received substantial radio play and chart success. The album reaffirmed Green Day's status as leading figures in punk and alternative rock, demonstrating their ability to blend narrative storytelling with melodic hooks and energetic performances.
2012

Release of Trilogy Albums '¡Uno!', '¡Dos!', and '¡Tré!'

During 2012, Green Day undertook an ambitious project, releasing three albums within a few months: '¡Uno!' in September, '¡Dos!' in November, and '¡Tré!' in December. This trilogy showcased different facets of their musical style but did not perform as well commercially as previous albums. Factors such as less promotional activity and lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong entering rehab contributed to the trilogy's modest reception. Despite this, the project was notable for its scope and creative ambition.
2015

Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Green Day was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, their first year of eligibility. This recognition celebrated their significant impact on punk rock and popular music over nearly three decades. The induction highlighted their enduring influence, commercial success, and contributions to the evolution of punk music. The band members also maintained various side projects and solo careers, reflecting their diversity as artists and musicians.
2016

Release of 'Revolution Radio' and Return to Form

In 2016, Green Day released 'Revolution Radio,' which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album marked a return to the band's punk roots with politically charged lyrics and energetic compositions. It was well-received by critics and fans alike, signaling a resurgence in the band's creative vitality. 'Revolution Radio' demonstrated Green Day's continued relevance in the contemporary music scene and their commitment to addressing social issues through their art.
2020

Release of 'Father of All Motherfuckers'

'Father of All Motherfuckers,' released in 2020, showcased a fresh, more upbeat, and garage rock-infused sound. The album debuted in the top five on the Billboard 200 and reached number one in Australia, Canada, and the UK. Despite its different sonic approach, it reflected the band's ongoing evolution and willingness to experiment. The album's release during a time of global upheaval added a layer of context to its themes and reception.
2024

Release of 'Saviors' and Continued Legacy

Green Day released their most recent album, 'Saviors,' in January 2024. The album continues to represent their lasting presence in the rock world, building on decades of influence and musical exploration. 'Saviors' adds to their extensive discography of 14 studio albums, showcasing the band's ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining the core elements of their identity. This release exemplifies Green Day's status as one of the best-selling and most influential punk rock bands globally.

Albums

green-day_1st_album
39/Smooth
10 tracks
1990
green-day_2nd_album
Kerplunk!
12 tracks
1991
green-day_3rd_album
Dookie
14 tracks
1994
green-day_4th_album
Insomniac
14 tracks
1995
green-day_5th_album
nimrod.
19 tracks
1997
green-day_6th_album
Warning:
14 tracks
2000
green-day_7th_album
American Idiot
13 tracks
2004
green-day_8th_album
21st Century Breakdown
18 tracks
2009
green-day_9th_album
¡Uno!
12 tracks
2012
green-day_10th_album
¡Dos!
13 tracks
2012
green-day_11th_album
¡Tré!
12 tracks
2012
green-day_12th_album
Revolution Radio
12 tracks
2016
green-day_13th_album
Father of All Motherfuckers
10 tracks
2020
green-day_14th_album
Saviors
15 tracks
2024

Collections Featuring Green Day

Green Day’s Top 10 Songs: Punk Rock Anthems
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Mike Dirnt

1989

Bass guitar

Billie Joe Armstrong

1989

Lead vocals

Guitar

Tré Cool

1990

Drums (drum set)

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

John Kiffmeyer

1989
1990

Drums (drum set)

Jason White

2012
2016

Guitar

Story of Green Day

Green Day: From Bay Area Punk to Global Rock Icons

Green Day, the undisputed kings of pop-punk, emerged from the vibrant Bay Area punk scene of the late 80s. Founded in 1987 by the dynamic duo of Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar) and Mike Dirnt (bass, backing vocals), the band initially went by the names Blood Rage and Sweet Children before settling on Green Day in 1989. They quickly became fixtures at the legendary 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, a hotbed for the burgeoning punk movement.

Their early recordings, released through Lookout! Records, showcased their raw energy and catchy melodies. Their debut album, 39/Smooth (1990), established their raw talent and laid the groundwork for their future success. The arrival of drummer Tré Cool in 1990, replacing John Kiffmeyer, solidified their classic power trio lineup.

The game-changer arrived in 1994 with Dookie, their major label debut on Reprise Records. The album exploded, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone, and propelled Green Day into the mainstream. They became synonymous with the punk revival alongside fellow California bands like Bad Religion, the Offspring, Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion.

Dookie cemented their status as rock stars, but Green Day continued to push boundaries. Insomniac (1995), Nimrod (1997), and Warning (2000) all achieved significant success, though they didn't quite match the phenomenal heights of Dookie.

Their seventh album, American Idiot (2004), marked a new chapter. This ambitious rock opera resonated deeply with a younger generation, selling six million copies in the U.S. and solidifying their status as a true rock force.

Green Day's momentum continued with 21st Century Breakdown (2009), their most commercially successful album to date, boasting their best chart performance ever. The band then embarked on a bold experiment with the ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tré! trilogy (2012), a three-part album release. While the trilogy didn't quite reach the commercial heights of their previous efforts, it solidified their enduring creative spirit.

Green Day's journey has been one of constant evolution. From their humble beginnings in the Bay Area punk scene to their global domination as rock icons, they have consistently delivered catchy tunes, powerful lyrics, and unforgettable live shows. They remain a force to be reckoned with, continuously inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.

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