These days, it’s rare to come across someone who hasn’t heard of “midwest emo.”
It’s become a distinctive sub-genre within the punk scene, giving rise to some of the bands we can’t stop listening to, such as Hot Mulligan, Heart Attack Man, Tiny Moving Parts, and Modern Baseball.
But what exactly is it that draws so many people to this music? Why has it exploded in popularity in recent years? What makes it so relatable, and why do so many listeners keep coming back for more? Could it eventually step out from under the emo umbrella and become the dominant sound of the genre? Let’s take a closer look at this growing trend.
What is Midwest Emo?
Midwest Emo, a subgenre of emo music, emerged in the early 2000s in the Midwest United States. Its sound is typically melodic and often incorporates acoustic elements, with lyrics that delve into feelings of sorrow, yearning, and nostalgia. This style is often considered a more refined and sophisticated evolution of traditional emo, drawing parallels to indie rock. Bands in the Midwest Emo scene commonly feature both male and female vocalists and blend influences from punk, post-hardcore, and indie rock. Some of the most well-known bands from this genre include American Football, The Get Up Kids, and Rainer Maria.
A Brief History of Midwest Emo
Let’s begin with a little background. I’ll give you a concise overview, but for a deeper dive, I suggest reading Carson Thurman’s article in The Central Times. As I go through the history, I’ll be covering the key insights from his work.
To understand how we got here, let’s rewind to the 1980s. Back then, punk music was all about being loud, fast, and in-your-face. But things started to shift when bands like Rites of Spring and Embrace came on the scene. They introduced a more mellow, introspective sound with slower tempos and deeply personal lyrics. This softer approach marked the beginning of what many consider to be the roots of Midwest Emo.
Some might say the true origins of Midwest Emo began in the 90s, with bands like American Football and others building on the groundwork laid by their predecessors. This era is often seen as the “second wave” of emo, where the genre took on a new shape and feel.
Next, the Early 2000s shaped Modern Emo
The early 2000s saw the rise of iconic emo bands like Panic! At The Disco, Fall Out Boy, and My Chemical Romance. While this period may have been the peak of emo music’s mainstream popularity, I would argue that the current wave has now taken the lead in terms of influence and reach.
Now, we find ourselves in the present day, often referred to as the “Emo Revival.” While I agree with this to some degree, I believe that today’s emo sound stands out as the most distinctive and true representation of emo culture yet. It’s an exciting era to be part of the emo or scene community.
Midwest Emo today still holds on to the same qualities it had in the 80s and 90s. It’s defined by introspective lyrics, raw emotional intensity (like the powerful screams from Tades Sanville of Hot Mulligan), and melodies that are both thoughtful and reflective.
Why has it become so popular recently?
One major reason Midwest Emo has gained so much traction is its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. While many genres tackle themes like heartbreak, rebellion, or the quest for self-identity, Midwest Emo stands out because of how deeply and honestly these topics are explored. The emotional intensity of the music feels genuine, which makes it relatable to a wide audience and ensures that it will always find a place in someone’s heart.
Another factor is the sheer volume of talent emerging from the Midwest. Spanning 12 states, the region is home to a rich and diverse music scene. This abundance of bands makes it a breeding ground for unique and innovative sounds, giving the genre a broad platform to grow and thrive.
Could it eventually become the dominant emo music genre?
Right now, Midwest emo is definitely gaining momentum, but it’s hard to say exactly where it will go. The sound is strong, meaningful, and it’s likely to keep growing over time. I wouldn’t be shocked if, in the next ten years, it becomes the leading form of emo music. As for hearing it on mainstream radio next to Panic! At The Disco or Fall Out Boy? That would probably need a niche station, but it’s not impossible. The genre is on an upward trajectory, and with how great the music is, it’s only going to continue to rise.
