Blink-182 was an American trio that played pop punk and punk rock music. The band was originally formed in 1992 in Poway, California (a northern suburb of San Diego) by Tom DeLonge (Vocals and Guitar) and Scott Raynor (Drums) who quickly recruited Mark Hoppus (Vocals and Bass). Originally, the band's official name was "Blink" with the numerical three digit suffix being appended early in their career following an objection from an Irish band with the same name. In 1998, midway through a U.S. tour, Raynor announced that he was leaving the band, due to undisclosed reasons. Drummer Travis Barker, who was touring with The Aquabats on the same bill as Blink-182, joined the band permanently. DeLonge left the group in early 2005, with the band portraying it as an "indefinite hiatus". DeLonge went on to play alternative rock in a band called Angels & Airwaves, while Hoppus and Barker continued in a similar genre with their band +44.
Blink-182 were known for their catchy, simple melodies, teen angst and lyrical toilet humor. They have sold almost 40 million records worldwide and have gained a strong cult following since their establishment during the mid-90's and especially during the start of their "indefinite hiatus". Songwriters Hoppus and DeLonge cite punk rock bands such as NOFX, The Descendents, Unwritten Law, and Screeching Weasel as their early influences although the band's songwriting and production was driven by a pop sensibility and they were primarily known for popular hits such as "All the Small Things", "Feeling This", "Adam's Song", "What's My Age Again", "The Rock Show", "Dammit", "I Miss You", and "Stay Together for the Kids".
