Weezer

USA, 1992–now

Los Angeles band led by Rivers Cuomo, formed in 1992. The Blue Album and Pinkerton fused crunchy Pixies-style dynamics with Beach Boys harmony and confessional, geeky pop hooks ('Buddy Holly', 'Say It Ain't So'), becoming a touchstone of '90s alt-rock and emo.

MusicRoots documents 3 artists who influenced Weezer and 0 artists Weezer influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Weezer?

• Pixies — The Pixies' quiet-verse/loud-chorus dynamic is the backbone of Weezer's crunchy alt-rock.
• The Beach Boys — The Beach Boys' harmony-drenched pop informs Rivers Cuomo's melodic, hook-first songwriting.
• Cheap Trick — Cheap Trick's crunchy power-pop is a clear model for Weezer's blend of big guitars and bubblegum melody.