Feature Photo: The Strokes – Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 1999, the music world stood on the brink of a new millennium, bracing for a decade that would see rapid changes and bold new voices. The 2000s ushered in a period of transformation for rock music, driven by a wave of fresh, young talent that brought new energy and perspectives to the genre. In the early years of the decade, a resurgence of garage rock, pop-punk, and nu-metal reflected a growing appetite for raw, authentic sound—a counterbalance to the polished pop of the late ’90s. Bands like The Strokes, Linkin Park, and Paramore exploded onto the scene with debut singles that captured the angst, urgency, and rebellious spirit of a new generation. Each of these tracks became an anthem in its own right, signaling the arrival of artists determined to redefine what rock could be.
Meanwhile, the 2000s also saw the emergence of rock’s “supergroups,” which brought together legendary musicians from established bands to create something entirely new. Formations like Audioslave and Velvet Revolver fused the formidable talents of their members to forge a fresh identity, offering the hard-hitting, no-nonsense rock that many fans craved. Even as younger bands were charting new territory, these supergroups reminded audiences of rock’s roots, proving that the genre still had plenty of life left in it. Songs like “Cochise” and “Set Me Free” were more than just singles—they were declarations of intent from rock veterans eager to prove they could still captivate and challenge audiences in a new era.
# 10 – One Step Closer – Linkin Park (2000)
Linkin Park’s “One Step Closer,” released on September 28, 2000, as the debut single from their first album, Hybrid Theory, marked the explosive arrival of a band that would come to redefine rock music in the early 2000s. Recorded at NRG Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California, and produced by Don Gilmore, “One Step Closer” captures the essence of Linkin Park’s signature sound, combining nu-metal aggression with electronic elements and hip-hop influences. It was the track that introduced the world to Chester Bennington’s raw, emotional vocals, Mike Shinoda’s rapping, and the unique musical synergy of Brad Delson (guitar), Rob Bourdon (drums), Dave “Phoenix” Farrell (bass), and Joe Hahn (turntables/samples).
“One Step Closer” was born out of frustration and urgency, a visceral reaction to the band’s creative struggles while recording Hybrid Theory. The song’s lyrics, “I’m about to break,” resonate with a sense of impending collapse, capturing the tension and frustration that many young listeners in the early 2000s could relate to. Its aggressive guitar riff, heavy bass, and dynamic shifts between soft verses and explosive choruses encapsulate the sound that would define Linkin Park’s early career. The chorus, with Bennington’s searing scream of “Shut up when I’m talking to you,” became a defining moment for fans, crystallizing the anger and angst of a generation.
Upon release, “One Step Closer” quickly established Linkin Park as a formidable new voice in rock. It reached No. 75 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks, gaining significant airplay on both rock and alternative radio stations. The music video, directed by Gregory Dark, featured the band performing in a claustrophobic, dimly lit underground setting, enhancing the song’s themes of entrapment and frustration. The video’s aesthetic, combined with the song’s raw energy, helped propel it to heavy rotation on MTV, further cementing Linkin Park’s status as breakout stars of the nu-metal movement.
Read More: Top 10 Linkin Park Songs
Read More: 10 Best 3 Doors Down Songs
# 8 – Hit Or Miss – New Found Glory (2000)
“Hit or Miss,” the debut single by New Found Glory, was released in 2000 as the lead track from their self-titled second album. A quintessential pop-punk anthem of its time, the song established New Found Glory as a driving force in the genre, capturing the hearts of a young audience yearning for music that spoke to their experiences of love, loss, and youthful disillusionment. Produced by Neal Avron at Elysian Fields Studios in Boca Raton, Florida, “Hit or Miss” is a high-energy track that combines catchy hooks, fast-paced rhythms, and emotionally charged lyrics—setting the stage for New Found Glory’s rise as pop-punk icons in the early 2000s.
“Hit or Miss” tells a tale of heartbreak and regret, centered around a failed relationship. With lyrics like “The needle on my record player has been wearing thin / This record has been playing since the day you’ve been with him,” lead vocalist Jordan Pundik captures the frustration and sadness of young love gone awry. The song is built on a foundation of driving guitar riffs by Chad Gilbert and Steve Klein, coupled with Ian Grushka’s pulsating bass lines and Cyrus Bolooki’s dynamic drumming. Its infectious chorus and straightforward emotional narrative made it an instant favorite among fans, embodying the spirit of pop-punk’s DIY ethos and emotional rawness.
Upon its release, “Hit or Miss” quickly garnered attention on both alternative and mainstream rock radio. It became New Found Glory’s first charting single, reaching No. 15 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and gaining traction in the burgeoning pop-punk scene of the early 2000s. The song’s music video, directed by Paul Fedor, featured the band performing in a garage and interacting with fans, reinforcing the group’s accessibility and connection to their audience. The video’s low-budget, energetic aesthetic became a hallmark of the genre, reflecting the band’s grassroots appeal and their ability to connect with a young, enthusiastic fanbase.
As a debut single, “Hit or Miss” is a standout in the pop-punk genre of the 2000s, sitting comfortably alongside other key debut singles of the era, like “Kryptonite” by 3 Doors Down and “One Step Closer” by Linkin Park. While “Kryptonite” captured a broader rock audience with its introspective themes, and “One Step Closer” showcased nu-metal’s aggression, “Hit or Miss” appealed directly to the teenage angst and emotional turmoil of the pop-punk crowd. The song’s blend of raw emotion, catchy melodies, and straightforward storytelling set the tone for New Found Glory’s subsequent releases and cemented their status as one of the leading bands in the pop-punk revival of the early 2000s.
“Hit or Miss” remains an essential song for fans of the genre, serving as both a nostalgic reminder of the pop-punk explosion at the turn of the millennium and a lasting anthem for anyone who has ever navigated the rocky terrain of youthful romance. It was a defining debut that perfectly captured the angst, energy, and spirit of its time, launching New Found Glory into a career that would help shape the sound of pop-punk for years to come.
Read More: Top 10 New Found Glory Songs
# 7 – No Such Thing – John Mayer (2001)
With “No Such Thing,” John Mayer burst onto the music scene in 2001, delivering a debut single that introduced his blend of pop-rock sensibility and singer-songwriter introspection. Featured on his first studio album, Room for Squares, the song was recorded at Loho Studios in New York City and produced by John Alagía. Mayer’s debut single showcases his knack for catchy melodies paired with thoughtful lyrics, setting him apart from other emerging artists of the time. “No Such Thing” effectively combines smooth, intricate guitar work with a reflective narrative on defying societal expectations and finding one’s path.
Lyrically, “No Such Thing” captures Mayer’s youthful defiance and desire to break free from conventional life paths, articulated in lines like, “I just found out there’s no such thing as the real world / Just a lie you’ve got to rise above.” The song’s theme is built around the idea of rejecting the typical notions of success often imposed by society, such as graduating high school and following a predetermined career path. Musically, Mayer’s warm, blues-influenced guitar riffs and relaxed vocal style provide a fresh take on pop-rock, adding a layer of authenticity that resonated with both young listeners and a more mature audience looking for something genuine and introspective.
Upon its release, “No Such Thing” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining substantial airplay on both pop and adult contemporary radio stations. Its success was further amplified by an engaging music video directed by Sam Erickson, which features Mayer performing in a high school setting, visually echoing the song’s lyrics about breaking free from the constraints of adolescence. The video’s bright, laid-back style perfectly matched the song’s breezy melody and further showcased Mayer’s charisma, helping him capture a diverse audience.
As a debut single, “No Such Thing” holds a unique place among the standout tracks of the early 2000s. Unlike the angst-filled aggression of Linkin Park’s “One Step Closer” or the introspective rock of 3 Doors Down’s “Kryptonite,” Mayer’s song offered a different flavor—one that fused introspection with optimism, wrapped in accessible, radio-friendly melodies. It marked the arrival of an artist who would go on to explore deeper emotional and musical landscapes, but even in his first single, Mayer displayed a maturity and sophistication that set the stage for his enduring career.
Read More: Top 10 John Mayer Songs
# 6 – Hard To Explain – The Strokes (2001)
With “Hard to Explain,” The Strokes announced their arrival on the rock music scene in 2001 with a sound that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Released as the lead single from their critically acclaimed debut album, Is This It, the track was recorded at Transporterraum Studio in New York City and produced by Gordon Raphael. “Hard to Explain” encapsulates the band’s minimalist yet compelling style, merging garage rock grit with pop sensibility, and establishing them as the leaders of a new wave of indie rock bands revitalizing the genre at the start of the 21st century.
Lyrically, “Hard to Explain” conveys a sense of urban ennui and youthful frustration. Julian Casablancas’s cryptic, stream-of-consciousness lyrics—such as “I say the right things, but act the wrong way / I like it right here, but I cannot stay”—capture the ambiguity and contradictions of young adulthood. The song’s driving beat, anchored by Fabrizio Moretti’s tight drumming, and the dual guitar interplay of Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr. create a raw, unpolished sound that evokes the urgency of 1970s punk rock. Meanwhile, Nikolai Fraiture’s bass line provides a steady groove that underpins the track’s frenetic energy.
“Hard to Explain” quickly became a defining single of the early 2000s, earning critical praise and gaining substantial airplay on alternative rock stations. While it didn’t reach high positions on the mainstream charts, its impact on the indie rock scene was undeniable, peaking at No. 27 on the UK Singles Chart and gaining a cult following. The accompanying music video, directed by Roman Coppola, with its rapid cuts and lo-fi aesthetic, captured the band’s raw energy and stylish nonchalance, further amplifying their appeal to a generation hungry for something new yet familiar.
As a debut single, “Hard to Explain” stands out among the most influential rock releases of the early 2000s. In contrast to the polished production of John Mayer’s “No Such Thing” or the heavy, emotionally charged atmosphere of Linkin Park’s “One Step Closer,” The Strokes offered a stripped-down, back-to-basics approach that embraced simplicity and directness.
Read More: Top 10 Songs From The Strokes
# 5 – Cochise – Audislave (2002)
Audioslave’s debut single, “Cochise,” hit the airwaves in 2002, serving as a bold introduction to a supergroup that combined the heavy, riff-driven power of Rage Against the Machine with the soulful, intense vocals of Soundgarden’s Chris Cornell. Released as the lead single from their self-titled debut album, Audioslave, “Cochise” was recorded at Cello Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Rick Rubin, a legendary figure known for his ability to capture raw energy and fuse disparate musical elements. The song marked a unique fusion of two formidable forces in rock, creating a sound that was as explosive as its title, named after the legendary Apache warrior Cochise.
Musically, “Cochise” is a showcase of Audioslave’s combined strengths: Tom Morello’s distinctive, effects-laden guitar work; Tim Commerford’s pulsating bass lines; Brad Wilk’s powerful drumming; and Chris Cornell’s dynamic vocal range. The track opens with a slow-building guitar feedback and then erupts into a driving riff that forms the backbone of the song, a hallmark of Morello’s style. Cornell’s commanding vocals deliver lyrics that evoke images of rebellion and defiance, perfectly complementing the song’s relentless pace. Lines like “I’ve been watching / While you’ve been coughing” reflect a tone of confrontation and frustration, while the chorus’s intense, repeated cries of “Go on and save yourself / And take it out on me” add an element of cathartic release, capturing the tension that permeates the song.
“Cochise” quickly established Audioslave’s place in the rock pantheon, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and gaining significant airplay on rock radio stations across the globe. The music video, directed by Mark Romanek, features a dramatic spectacle with the band playing on a rooftop amidst an impressive fireworks display, perfectly matching the explosive energy of the track. This visual representation reinforced the song’s impact, and the video became a staple on MTV and other music channels, helping to cement the song’s place in rock history.
As a debut single, “Cochise” stands out among the most electrifying rock introductions of the early 2000s. While John Mayer’s “No Such Thing” captured a more introspective and accessible sound, and The Strokes’ “Hard to Explain” offered a raw, retro-infused indie rock feel, “Cochise” was unapologetically aggressive, heavy, and ambitious. It bridged the gap between the hard rock of the 1990s and the evolving landscape of 2000s rock, delivering a powerful statement that heralded the arrival of a new supergroup and left no doubt about their intention to leave a lasting mark on the genre.
Read More: Top 10 Audioslave Songs
# 4 – Set Me Free – Velvet Revolver (2003)
“Set Me Free,” the 2003 debut single from Velvet Revolver, signaled the arrival of a rock supergroup ready to shake up the early 2000s music scene. Comprised of former Guns N’ Roses members Slash (guitar), Duff McKagan (bass), and Matt Sorum (drums), along with Stone Temple Pilots frontman Scott Weiland (vocals) and guitarist Dave Kushner, Velvet Revolver brought together some of rock’s most iconic players. Produced by Josh Abraham and recorded at NRG Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California, “Set Me Free” quickly established Velvet Revolver’s identity as a potent blend of hard rock aggression and grunge-era rawness.
Lyrically, “Set Me Free” captures the themes of rebellion, desperation, and the search for liberation, which resonate with both the band’s past and its future ambitions. Weiland’s gritty, impassioned vocals deliver lines like “So many years, and too many tears / I’ve been waiting so long to get free,” reflecting a sense of frustration and the need to break free from constraints. Musically, the song is driven by Slash’s signature blues-inflected guitar riffs, McKagan’s pulsing bass, and Sorum’s relentless drumming. The combination creates a powerful, fast-paced rock anthem that feels both fresh and familiar—bridging the gap between the sleazy rock of Guns N’ Roses and the darker, introspective style of Stone Temple Pilots.
Released as part of the The Hulk movie soundtrack in 2003 and later included in their debut album Contraband (2004), “Set Me Free” quickly gained traction, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and helping to build anticipation for the band’s forthcoming full-length release. The song’s music video, directed by Kevin Kerslake, featured a mix of live performance footage and scenes from the movie, capturing the raw energy and defiant spirit that would come to define Velvet Revolver’s presence on stage and in the studio. The track was a hard-hitting statement of intent, demonstrating the band’s ability to meld its members’ diverse influences into a cohesive new sound.
As a debut single, “Set Me Free” stands out for its fusion of classic rock energy and modern sensibilities. In contrast to the introspective lyrics and smooth production of John Mayer’s “No Such Thing” or the stripped-down indie vibe of The Strokes’ “Hard to Explain,” Velvet Revolver’s opening salvo was a loud, unapologetic declaration that pure rock ‘n’ roll was alive and well. It bridged the raw, untamed spirit of the 1980s and 1990s with a contemporary edge, paving the way for the band’s success with Contraband and their continued influence on rock music in the new millennium.
Read More: Top 10 Velvet Revolver Songs
# 3 – Bring Me To Life – Evanescence
“Bring Me to Life,” released in 2003 as the debut single from Evanescence’s first studio album, Fallen, was a groundbreaking entry into the rock music scene that year. Recorded at NRG Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California, and produced by Dave Fortman, the song captured the attention of a broad audience with its unique fusion of nu-metal, goth rock, and symphonic elements, all underscored by Amy Lee’s powerful and haunting vocals. This single not only introduced the world to the band’s distinctive sound but also established them as one of the most compelling acts of the early 2000s rock resurgence.
Lyrically, “Bring Me to Life” explores themes of awakening, inner struggle, and the search for purpose. Amy Lee’s vocal performance is a commanding force, moving between ethereal verses and a soaring chorus, asking, “How can you see into my eyes like open doors?” The song delves into feelings of emptiness and the desire to be brought back from an emotional or spiritual numbness, articulated with lines such as “Wake me up inside / Save me from the nothing I’ve become.” The addition of guest vocals by Paul McCoy of 12 Stones adds a contrasting element, blending Lee’s operatic style with a more aggressive nu-metal touch, giving the track a unique duality that sets it apart from its contemporaries.
“Bring Me to Life” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in multiple countries, including the UK and Australia. The song’s success was bolstered by its inclusion in the soundtrack for the 2003 film Daredevil, which helped it gain traction with a wider audience. The accompanying music video, directed by Philipp Stölzl, features Lee climbing the side of a building in a dream-like, perilous state, symbolizing the song’s themes of desperation and the quest for self-discovery. The video’s dramatic visuals, combined with the band’s intense performance, became iconic, contributing to the song’s heavy rotation on MTV and other music channels.
As a debut single, “Bring Me to Life” stands out among the era’s defining rock releases. While contemporaries like Velvet Revolver’s “Set Me Free” relied on a gritty, hard rock foundation and Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab” blended soul with retro influences, Evanescence offered something unique—a sound that bridged the gap between rock and gothic sensibilities, appealing to fans of both metal and mainstream rock. The song’s blend of piano-driven melodies, heavy guitar riffs, and dynamic vocal interplay created a fresh sonic landscape that resonated deeply with audiences.
“Bring Me to Life” remains one of the most memorable debut singles of the 2000s, solidifying Evanescence’s place in rock history and paving the way for their continued success. It was a bold introduction that showcased the band’s ability to blend raw emotion with genre-defying musicality, leaving a lasting impact on the rock genre and influencing countless artists in the years that followed.
Read More: Top 10 Evanescence Songs
# 2 – Pressure – Paramore (2005)
With “Pressure,” Paramore burst onto the scene in 2005, delivering a debut single that showcased their youthful exuberance, raw energy, and fresh approach to pop-punk. Released as the lead single from their debut album, All We Know Is Falling, “Pressure” was recorded at The House of Loud in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, and produced by James Paul Wisner. The song introduced listeners to the distinctive voice of a then-teenage Hayley Williams, backed by the tight musicianship of Josh Farro (guitar), Zac Farro (drums), and Jeremy Davis (bass). “Pressure” is a dynamic statement of intent that positioned Paramore as one of the most promising new acts in the mid-2000s rock scene.
Lyrically, “Pressure” delves into themes of youthful frustration, self-doubt, and the desire to break free from societal and personal expectations. Williams’ vocal delivery is both fiery and vulnerable, as she sings, “Tell me where our time went / And if it was time well spent.” The lyrics reflect the tension between conforming to external pressures and the yearning for authenticity. Musically, the song is built on a foundation of punchy guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and an infectious melody. The tight interplay between the instruments and Williams’ compelling voice creates a sound that is both aggressive and catchy, embodying the angst and spirit of teenage rebellion.
“Pressure” quickly became a defining track for Paramore, resonating with a growing fanbase and establishing them as a fresh face in the pop-punk genre. Although it didn’t chart initially on the Billboard Hot 100, the song gained traction through the band’s relentless touring and a dedicated fanbase, gradually becoming a staple of mid-2000s alternative rock playlists. The music video, directed by Shane Drake, features the band performing in a basement while intercutting scenes of people struggling under various forms of pressure—a young man in a dead-end job and a woman facing beauty standards—underscoring the song’s themes of stress and resilience. The video’s gritty, relatable imagery struck a chord with listeners, helping to build the band’s image and credibility within the scene.
As a debut single, “Pressure” stands out for its youthful authenticity and high-energy delivery, setting Paramore apart from their contemporaries. Compared to the bold, genre-bending rock of Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life” or the genre-fusing sound of Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab,” “Pressure” is a straightforward blast of pop-punk vitality that captures the essence of its genre. It marked Paramore’s entry into a crowded field, where their raw energy and relatable lyrics quickly made them a standout act.
“Pressure” remains a critical piece of Paramore’s history and a song that helped define their early sound. It is an earnest anthem that reflects the experiences and emotions of a young band finding their voice and refusing to succumb to the pressures of the world around them. This debut single laid the foundation for Paramore’s continued evolution and success, proving that sometimes, the purest expressions of frustration and defiance can resonate the most deeply with an audience.
Read More: 10 Paramore Songs Loved By Fans
# 1 – Oh Yeah – Chickenfoot (2009)
Closing our list of the 10 Best 2000s Debut Singles in Rock Music, “Oh Yeah” by Chickenfoot, released in 2009, serves as a testament to the enduring power and spirit of classic rock. As the debut single from their self-titled album, Chickenfoot, “Oh Yeah” brought together the supergroup’s stellar lineup: Sammy Hagar (vocals), Joe Satriani (guitar), Michael Anthony (bass), and Chad Smith (drums). Recorded at Skywalker Sound in Marin County, California, and produced by Andy Johns and the band themselves, “Oh Yeah” is a straightforward, high-energy rock anthem that channels the raw, unfiltered essence of a group of seasoned rock veterans coming together to have fun and create music without boundaries.
Musically, “Oh Yeah” is a celebration of everything that makes rock exciting—big, meaty guitar riffs, pounding drums, and powerful, soulful vocals. Satriani’s guitar work is a standout, with electrifying solos that blend technical mastery with an effortless feel, while Anthony’s bass lines and Smith’s tight drumming provide a robust rhythmic foundation. Hagar’s vocals bring an infectious, exuberant energy to the song, with lyrics that revel in the pleasures of life, freedom, and rock and roll itself: “Time to lose all your worries / Life’s too short for yesterdays.” The chorus, punctuated by the resounding “Oh yeah!” is designed to be sung along with, and its simplicity only adds to its appeal.
Upon its release, “Oh Yeah” quickly climbed the rock charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, showcasing that rock’s old guard could still deliver hits in the new millennium. The song’s music video, directed by Jon Luini, captured the band’s chemistry and infectious energy, featuring performance footage intercut with playful, behind-the-scenes moments that underscored their genuine camaraderie. The video’s lightheartedness complemented the track’s upbeat nature, and its frequent play on rock music channels further solidified Chickenfoot’s status as a new powerhouse on the scene.
Read More: Top 10 Chickenfoot Songs