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Strumming strings and crafting rhythms that can make the heart dance? That's Mike Dirnt, the bassist who adds a symphonic heartbeat to Green Day's electrifying anthems! Born on May 4, 1972, in Berkeley, California, Dirnt's musical journey kicked off as a teenager, when he, Billie Joe Armstrong, and drummer Tré Cool formed Green Day in 1987.
But he isn't just a maestro on stage, he's a family man too, married to Brittney Cade, with two kids. Now, let's groove through the crescendo of Dirnt's sonic legacy; from nimble basslines to euphonic magic, these are the top 10 highest-grossing songs in Mike Dirnt’s discography, ranked by the units they sold worldwide.
Warning - 2000 (4.5 Million Units)
The synergistic efforts of Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool converged to create a Green Day track that sends out an urgent caution. Self-produced by the band and Rob Cavallo, the song's captivating melodies deliver a message about life's choices. Selling 4.5 million units, it's an ear-catching expression of the human condition. This cautionary anthem received a Gold certification from the RIAA, standing as a resonating reminder of its popularity.
Longview - 1994 (4.7 Million Units)
A groundbreaking collaboration between Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool, this Green Day breakthrough hit reflects the mundane moments of life. A creative product of Rob Cavallo's production prowess, the song's unvarnished honesty struck a chord, resulting in 4.7 million units sold. With a Gold certification from the RIAA, it's a candid exploration of existence's ordinary beauty.
Basket Case - 1994 (5 Million Units)
The triumphant trio of Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool unleashed a punk rock gem that found its place in the hearts of many. Guided by the production brilliance of Rob Cavallo, the work's raw vulnerability tackles anxiety and self-doubt head-on. With a spirited energy that resonated, it soared to 5 million units sold. Certified Gold by the RIAA, it's a powerful reminder that embracing imperfections can yield extraordinary results.
When I Come Around - 1994 (5.2 Million Units)
With a masterful blend of musical talents, Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool crafted this Green Day classic. Produced by Rob Cavallo, the song's infectious nostalgia captures fleeting moments in time. A testament to its timelessness, it sold 5.2 million units, embraced by a global audience. This Gold-certified jewel from the RIAA remains a sonic refuge for the wandering heart.
Holiday - 2004 (5.8 Million Units)
United in their creative force, Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool etched their critique of society's dynamics into musical history. The guiding production of Rob Cavallo birthed a song that emboldens change and activism. Its dynamic energy captured minds, leading to 5.8 million units sold. The song's profound message is certified Platinum by the RIAA, standing tall as a sonic call to arms.
American Idiot - 2004 (6 Million Units)
Mike Dirnt, harmonizing with Billie Joe Armstrong and Tré Cool, channeled their punk rock prowess into this rebellious anthem. Crafted under Rob Cavallo's guiding hand, the song serves as a protest against conformity. Its raw energy ignited a revolution, propelling sales of 6 million units. As a musical manifesto, it proudly wears the Platinum badge from the RIAA, a true emblem of its unapologetic impact.
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) - 1997 (6.5 Million Units)
The collaborative trio of Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool conjured a musical farewell that transcended generations. Nurtured by the production prowess of Rob Cavallo, the track's acoustic embrace wraps around moments of closure and beginnings. With an impressive 6.5 million units sold, it's a lyrical journey that echoes through life's transitions. Earning a Platinum certification from the RIAA, it's a precious gem sparkling in the vast musical cosmos.
21 Guns - 2009 (7.2 Million Units)
The synergy of Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool brought to life this emotive anthem, standing tall under the skilled production of Butch Vig. A resonating plea for solace and purpose, the song's universal message reverberated across borders, driving sales of 7.2 million units. It's an auditory testament to the human spirit's resilience and longing. This sonic weaponry earned its Platinum stripes from the RIAA, a fitting accolade for a musical battle cry.
Wake Me Up When September Ends - 2004 (8.5 Million Units)
Emotionally charged and profoundly moving, this collaborative creation between Mike Dirnt, Billie Joe Armstrong, and Tré Cool delves deep into themes of loss and renewal. Guided by the production brilliance of Rob Cavallo, the song acts as a poignant tribute to difficult memories. Selling a staggering 8.5 million units, its universal resonance paints a canvas of emotions that transcends seasons. This timeless composition has earned its place in hearts and playlists, gaining a Platinum certification from the RIAA along the way.
Boulevard of Broken Dreams - 2004 (10 Million Units)
Collaborating with his musical cohorts Billie Joe Armstrong and Tré Cool, Mike Dirnt added his signature bass magic to this Green Day masterpiece. Helmed by producer extraordinaire Rob Cavallo, the song acts as a sonic refuge for the lost souls, capturing a journey of solitude and self-discovery. With an impressive 10 million units sold worldwide, it's not just a boulevard, but a highway of global connection. The song received the prestigious Platinum certification from the RIAA, much like a treasured gem that shines through the chaos.