Biography of Green Day

Although these brash, third-generation California punks had made a name for themselves in the independent scene in the early '90s, it wasn't until they signed to a major label that they became alternative stars. And when their major-label debut, 1994's Dookie, was released the infectious punk-pop of "Longview" became more than an alternative hit -- it quickly crossed over into the mainstream. Green Day come off as bratty punks, not threatening revolutionaries, but it's actually for the music's benefit; without their healthy, snotty attitude, their speedy, loud guitars and highly melodic hooks wouldn't be nearly as appealing as they are. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine