The 13 Best Bands of the 2000s, Ranked

Fall Out Boy crashed onto the pop-punk scene with a distinctive sound that blended elements of punk, pop, and emo. Their breakthrough album, "From Under the Cork Tree," catapulted them to the forefront of the genre, paving the way for a new wave of pop-punk bands. Their relatable lyrics and catchy hooks resonated with a broad audience, solidifying their position in the music world.

Hailing from Las Vegas, The Killers offered a refreshing sound that fused new wave and post-punk revival. Their debut album, "Hot Fuss," quickly became an international sensation, spawning hit singles such as "Mr. Brightside" and "Somebody Told Me." Their uniquely theatrical performances and heartfelt songwriting made them a household name.

The Strokes kickstarted the garage rock revival with their debut album, "Is This It". Their stripped-down approach to rock and their captivating, nonchalant stage presence rekindled the world's love for indie rock. Their influence spanned beyond the music scene, impacting fashion and popular culture of the era.

Maroon 5 burst onto the music scene with a melange of pop, rock, and R&B. Their debut album, "Songs About Jane," produced a slew of chart-topping hits like "Harder to Breathe," "This Love," and "She Will Be Loved." Their soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, combined with Adam Levine's distinct vocals, set them apart.

Hailing from Sheffield, UK, Arctic Monkeys exploded onto the indie rock scene with their debut album "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not". Known for their witty lyrics, energetic performances, and inventive guitar riffs, the band was critically acclaimed for rejuvenating British rock music.

Linkin Park redefined the nu-metal genre with a unique blend of heavy guitar riffs, electronic elements, and both rap and melodic vocals. Their debut album, "Hybrid Theory," was a global sensation that won them a loyal fan base. They continued to evolve and innovate throughout the decade, consistently producing hit songs.

Although Green Day was formed in the late '80s, it wasn't until the release of their album "American Idiot" in 2004 that they reached the pinnacle of their fame. Their knack for crafting anthemic punk rock songs with a political edge resonated with a whole new generation, confirming their status as one of the era's defining bands.

Radiohead, while initially gaining fame in the '90s, arguably reached their creative peak in the 2000s with albums like "Kid A" and "In Rainbows". Their willingness to experiment with sounds and disregard for genre boundaries set new standards in alternative rock. Their enigmatic, cerebral style won the hearts and minds of countless fans worldwide.

Led by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, Foo Fighters solidified their place in rock history during the 2000s. With their loud, anthemic choruses, fiery guitar riffs, and heartfelt lyrics, they became the poster band for modern rock music. Their energetic live shows and down-to-earth demeanor endeared them to fans around the globe.

Known for their grandiose sound and spectacular live performances, Muse became one of the defining rock bands of the 2000s. Their fusion of rock, electronic, and classical music, combined with Bellamy's soaring vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, made them a standout band of the decade.

Coldplay won the world over with their emotionally charged songs, atmospheric soundscapes, and compelling live performances. Their landmark albums, such as "A Rush of Blood to the Head" and "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends," are some of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful of the 2000s.

Red Hot Chili Peppers, though veterans of the music scene, hit a new stride in the 2000s. Their unique blend of rock, funk, and psychedelic music, combined with their dynamic stage presence and raw energy, kept them at the forefront of the rock scene. Albums like "By the Way" and "Stadium Arcadium" are a testament to their musical prowess.

And finally, at the number 1 spot on our list of the best bands of the 2000s, we have U2. Despite their inception in the late '70s, U2 managed to stay incredibly relevant and influential in the 2000s. Their timeless anthems, combined with Bono's distinctive voice and The Edge's innovative guitar work, have made them one of the biggest bands on the planet. With the release of albums like "All That You Can't Leave Behind" and "How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb," they remained at the forefront of the music scene, delighting fans old and new.