As I previously mentioned, I’m something of a fan of music of the Punk genre. This is, in part, due to a lifelong exposure to bands like Bad Religion, the Ramones and the Clash; but as I grew older, my tastes expanded to include Pennywise, H20, NOFX, and a slew of others. Of course, I wouldn’t be here writing this without a point, so here are some of my favorites, with as little commentary as I feel is necessary to explain why I love that song.

10. Dropkick Murphys – “Workers Song”

Ok, I stumbled on this one while our CEO was traipsing around the world doing the things I could only dream about doing, so there is a bit of personal motivation for this song making the list. Aside from that, it is one of the more melodic Dropkick Murphys tunes, and it isn’t disappointing at all. While there are probably a few more DKM tunes that others will say are better, this is one of my personal favorites of all time.

Also: “Gang’s All Here” and “God Willing”

9. Anti-Flag – “You’ve Got to Die for the Government”

It is said that we tie memories to emotions. This song is tied to that emotion that is best described as a healthy serving of rage with a side of disappointment and shame. It also fits whenever I spend extended periods of time with my overly conservative military family.

Also: “Turncoat” “Soddom, Gomorrah, Washington DC”

8. Goldfinger – “King for a Day”

I’ve never thought that punk music had to always be anger and rage. This track reminds me to take a minute or two and calm down. Afterall, what’s the point of living your life the way you want to live it if you don’t take the time to enjoy it?

Also: “Here in Your Bedroom” “99 Red Balloons”

7. Me First and the Gimme Gimmes – “Rocket Man”

This is one my wife’s favorite songs, and I have to admit that her preference has a lot to do with my love of it as well.

Also: “The Longest Time” “Much Too Young”

6. The Offspring – “Bad Habit”

Seriously, this is the only song that can save me from the uncontrollable anger that being stuck in traffic for an hour can bring on.

Also: “Killboy Powerhead” “The Kids Aren’t Alright”

5. NOFX – “She’s Nubs”

All kidding aside, it is probably a bit insensitive to make a song about a girl that has no arms or legs. This is all made ok by the fact that she makes some dude carry her to punk shows in a backpack. The song is cleanly wrapped up in the final line: “But boy she sure knows how to rock, she’s nubs”.

Also: “Moron Brothers” “Whatever Didi Wants”

4. Rise Against – “Give It All”

Here’s a challenge for you, go to your nearest windy road, put this song on, drive. When the song is done, see how fast you are driving, and slow down before you get yourself killed. Really though, this is one of the best driving songs I’ve ever heard, perhaps that’s why its been in more than a couple driving games!

Also: “To Them These Streets Belong” “The Dirt Whispered”

3. Millencolin – “Man or Mouse”

Yeah, this kinda ventures out of the punk realm, but it is also a fantastic song to get your spirits up when people are trying to get you to live your life in a way that you don’t personally agree with.

Also: “Machine 15″ “Monkey Boogie”

2. Bad Religion – “Funk Armageddon, This is Hell”

This song _still_ gives me goosebumps when I hear it. It is fun to mosh to, listen to, write to… Actually, hearing this song live is one of the few things that can drive me to wanting to punch a random stranger in the face for shoving religion down my throat since I was born.

Also: “Supersonic” “A Walk”

1. Pennywise – “Date With Destiny”

Two things you should know: Pennywise is my favorite punk band, and I didn’t pick Bro Hymn because I think it kind of transcends the purposes of this list. “Date With Destiny” however, is one of the few songs that really embodies many of the underlying philosophies that spawned punk music as a whole.

Also: “Peaceful Day” “My Own Country”