Because we all know My Chem didn’t actually start the Emo movement.
1. "For Want Of" - Rites of Spring
Rites of Spring are seen as the founding fathers of the Emo genre. Though the origins of the term Emotive Hardcore is unclear, the band mentioned in a 1985 interview that their fans had started calling their music Emotive Hardcore and the term stuck.
Emo lyric:
"But I woke up this morning with a piece of past caught in my throat
And then I choked."
Youtube: ritesofspr
2. "Dance of Days" - Embrace
Embrace were a short-lived post hardcore band from Washington and were one of the first bands dubbed in the media as 'emotional hardcore,' though the members did dispute the name. They lasted from 1985 - 1986.
Emo lyric:
"You know I thought my eyes would be dry
But now I see and know."
Wikipedia.org / Creative Commons
3. "Waiting Room" - Fugazi
Fugazi are one of the longer-lasting bands to fall under the original Emo definition. Fugazi consisted of former members of Rites of Spring and formed in 1986. The band has been on an indefinite hiatus since 2000.
Emo lyric:
"Please don't leave me to remain
In the waiting room."
Youtube: Grazy321
