Fat Wreck Chords

Fat Wreck Chords: Punk Rock’s Steady Hand

Fat Wreck Chords is an independent record label founded in 1990 by punk rock legend Fat Mike of NOFX. It’s been a cornerstone of the punk scene, releasing albums by some of the genre’s most beloved bands, from established names to up-and-coming acts.

The Sound of Fat Wreck

Fat Wreck Chords is known for its commitment to raw, energetic punk rock. While it’s not solely a punk label, it holds a strong focus on the genre’s subgenres, including:

• Melodic Punk: Bands like Lagwagon, The Offspring and Strung Out showcase catchy melodies with a punk edge.
• Skate Punk: NOFX, Swingin’ Utters, and The Vandals embody the energy and spirit of skateboarding culture.
• Pop-Punk: While not as prominent, The Queers and Screeching Weasel brought pop-punk sensibilities to the label’s roster.
• Alternative Rock: Fat Wreck has also embraced rock bands with a punk influence, like The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Rise Against, and Good Riddance.

Notable Artists and Songs

NOFX: Known for their sarcastic and humorous lyrics, NOFX is the label’s flagship band. Their hits include “Linoleum,” “Don’t Call Me White,” and “The Decline.”

Lagwagon: A melodic punk staple with a huge following. Songs like “May 16th,” “Sick of It,” and “Razorblade” remain fan favorites.

The Offspring: While only briefly on Fat Wreck, The Offspring’s “Come Out and Play” and “Self Esteem” cemented their place in punk history.

Swingin’ Utters: A highly regarded band, Swingin’ Utters boasts songs like “The Ballad of John Henry,” “Tell Me I’m Wrong,” and “The Pit.”

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones: A ska-punk powerhouse, their most famous song is “The Impression That I Get.”

Friends and Influences

Fat Wreck Chords has a strong network of artists and labels with shared ideals.

• Epitaph Records: Founded by Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion, Epitaph is a close collaborator and has released several Fat Wreck artists.
• Sub Pop Records: Known for its grunge and alternative rock, Sub Pop has a shared history with Fat Wreck, with artists like Nirvana and Mudhoney making appearances at Fat Wreck shows.
• The DIY Ethos: Fat Wreck embodies the do-it-yourself spirit of punk, promoting independent music and supporting smaller bands.

Beyond the Music

Fat Wreck Chords is more than just a label. It fosters a community through its annual Punk in Drublic festival and various charitable initiatives. Fat Mike himself is an outspoken advocate for animal rights and environmental issues.

A Legacy of Punk

Fat Wreck Chords has played a vital role in shaping the punk landscape for over three decades. The label’s unwavering commitment to the genre’s spirit and its dedication to independent music have made it a lasting force in the punk rock scene.