Blink-182’s collaboration with Canadian singer-songwriter Goody Grace is a testament to the band’s enduring relevance and willingness to work with emerging artists. The collaboration happened on the song “Scumbag”, released in October 2019, which saw Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker (Blink-182 members) team up with the rising star. Here’s a detailed look at their collaboration and Blink-182’s role in Goody Grace’s career development.
Background on Goody Grace
Goody Grace, born in Manitoba, Canada, is known for blending various genres, including alternative, pop, and hip-hop, which gives his music a unique, genre-defying sound. He gained a following through his emotive, raw songwriting and melodic sound, which appealed to both the indie and mainstream audience. Before collaborating with Blink-182, Goody Grace had released tracks like “Two Shots” and worked with other notable musicians, including G-Eazy and Lil Aaron. His blend of influences, including pop-punk, folk, and emo, made him a natural fit to collaborate with a band like Blink-182, whose influence on the pop-punk scene is immeasurable.
The Song “Scumbag”
The song “Scumbag” marked a significant milestone for Goody Grace. Released in October 2019, the track features Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker, two of the three core members of Blink-182. The song is an ode to Blink-182’s early pop-punk sound, while also blending Goody Grace’s more modern, genre-crossing style.
Musical Composition and Lyrics
“Scumbag” has a nostalgic, pop-punk vibe that reflects Blink-182’s earlier work, especially from their Enema of the State era. It features fast-paced drumming by Travis Barker and a bass line from Mark Hoppus, both of which are signature elements of Blink-182’s sound. The lyrics deal with themes of youthful angst, heartbreak, and feelings of isolation — common motifs in both Blink-182’s music and Goody Grace’s songwriting. Goody Grace’s smooth, emotive vocals balance well with Hoppus’s more raw, punk delivery, making the song a seamless blend of styles from different generations of pop-punk.
Travis Barker’s Production Role
In addition to performing on the track, Travis Barker also took on a significant role in the production. Barker has become a highly sought-after producer and collaborator in recent years, working with artists across genres, from hip-hop to rock, and he brought this experience to “Scumbag.” His ability to blend different sounds and maintain the energetic pace of pop-punk while integrating modern elements helped make the song feel both timeless and fresh.
Music Video
The music video for “Scumbag” further highlights the collaboration between Goody Grace and Blink-182. Directed with a nostalgic nod to the early 2000s, the video features Grace wandering through sun-soaked suburban streets, intercut with performance shots of him alongside Hoppus and Barker. The aesthetics of the video, from the skateboards to the suburban backdrop, evoke the youthful energy and carefree attitude that Blink-182 helped popularize, while still giving space for Goody Grace to bring in his own artistic vision.
Goody Grace’s Relationship with Blink-182
Goody Grace has often cited Blink-182 as one of his biggest influences. He grew up listening to their music, and collaborating with the band was a dream come true for him. In interviews, Goody Grace expressed his admiration for Blink-182, calling them one of his favorite bands growing up. The collaboration wasn’t just a commercial move; it was a genuine artistic partnership born out of mutual respect and a shared love for the pop-punk genre.
Impact of the Collaboration
For Goody Grace, working with Blink-182 helped elevate his profile, particularly within the pop-punk and alternative music scenes. The collaboration introduced him to a broader audience, particularly Blink-182’s fanbase, who may not have been familiar with his work prior to the release of “Scumbag.”
For Blink-182, the collaboration with Goody Grace was part of their broader trend of working with younger artists, keeping their sound current while also paying homage to their roots. It showed that they were still in touch with the music landscape and capable of influencing and working with the next generation of musicians.
Travis Barker’s Broader Collaborations
Travis Barker, in particular, has become known for his wide-reaching collaborations with artists across various genres. His work with Goody Grace is just one example of his ability to cross genres and work with up-and-coming talent. Barker has also collaborated with artists like Machine Gun Kelly, Yungblud, and Post Malone, further showcasing his versatility and influence as a producer and drummer.
Conclusion
Blink-182’s collaboration with Goody Grace on “Scumbag” is a notable example of how the band has continued to remain relevant by working with younger artists and blending their signature sound with modern musical styles. For Goody Grace, the collaboration was a dream fulfilled and a significant step in his career. For Blink-182, it was another opportunity to evolve while staying true to the pop-punk ethos they helped define.