10 Best Green Day Songs

Green Day is a popular punk rock band that has been making incredible music for over 30 years and in that time have developed an epic discography.

With a long list of hits under their belt, it can be difficult to choose the 10 best songs from their extensive back catalogue

However, after careful consideration, here are the top 10 best songs by Green Day. We admit that this is a bit of a casual fan list but these songs became popular for a very good reason. Let’s get started!

10. 21 Guns

For a long while now, Green Day haven’t been afraid to be political. This ballad is a good example. Released in 2009, it is a powerful anti-war song that encourages listeners to take a stand against violence and injustice. Its soaring chorus and emotional lyrics have made it a fan favorite.

9. Jesus of Suburbia

This nine-minute epic from “American Idiot” is a rock opera that tells the story of a disillusioned teenager searching for meaning in life. Along with its music video, Jesus of Suburbia is a work of art. It showcases Green Day’s versatility and musical ambition.

8. Minority

Released in 2000, “Minority” is an upbeat punk rock anthem that celebrates individuality and standing out from the crowd. This is towards the end of classic punk rock Green Day, and some fans view the Warning album as the last one the made before changing their sound.

7. When I Come Around

This catchy love song, released in 1994, features a melodic guitar riff and relatable lyrics about the ups and downs of relationships. It’s a work of songwriting genius, as are many songs from the timeless Dookie album.

6. Longview

This 1994 hit single is another one from the Dookie album. It features a memorable bass line and candid lyrics about boredom and masturbation. It was a breakthrough hit for Green Day and helped to establish their signature sound.

5. Wake Me Up When September Ends

This emotional ballad, released in 2004, was inspired by the death of Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong’s father. It has become a popular song for funerals and memorials. Annoyingly it has also become common for people to joke about the song and bring it up whenever September literally ends, which is sad considering the lyrical content.

4. Holiday

Another standout track from American Idiot, “Holiday” is a powerful anti-war song that protests the Iraq War and the policies of the Bush administration. It’s the third track on what is a breathless start to their infamous 2004 album.

3. Basket Case

Released in 1994, “Basket Case” is a fast-paced punk rock song that deals with anxiety and mental health issues. Its catchy chorus and energetic guitar riff have made it a fan favorite. Along with its quirky music video to go with the mental health theme, this is always a song that puts a smile on your face.

2. American Idiot

The title track from Green Day’s 2004 album, “American Idiot” is a political punk anthem that criticizes the state of American culture and society. Fans of classic Green Day may smile but at well over 700 million Spotify views, the song and album remain ridiculously popular.

1. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)

There is something simply magic about this song. I think it’s a combination of it being an acoustic song from a punk rock band, the beautiful melody, and the philosophical lyrics. It has become a common song played at many events such as weddings, funerals, and graduations. It’s lyrics speak to everyone on our journey through life.