Top 10 Songs by Sum 41, Ranked

Pop-punk music has a rich history that found its roots in the British punk scene of the ’70s and exploded in California in the ’90s. However, the genre found new life and popularity in the early 2000s, thanks in part to a wave of Canadian pop-punk bands making their mark. Among these, the Ajax, Ont.-based band Sum 41 stood out as one of the most successful.

Sum 41’s journey began in 1999 when they signed to Island Records, and their debut single “Fat Lip” quickly soared to the top of the Billboard rock chart. This set the stage for their iconic sound that blended pop melodies with riotous rock, defining the pop-punk sound of the 2000s. Over the years, the band’s experimentation with hip-hop and metal genres helped to shape and transform their identity while staying true to their punk roots.

After a successful 25-year run, Sum 41 recently disbanded following the release of their final album, Heaven :x: Hell, and a farewell tour culminating in back-to-back hometown shows in Toronto. With an upcoming induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the 2025 Juno Awards, we look back at the band’s top 10 songs that resonated with fans over the years.

Kicking off our countdown at number 10 is “Underclass Hero,” a track that marked a return to Sum 41’s pop-punk roots and showcased their ability to capture a blend of catchy guitar hooks, energetic melodies, and anthemic choruses. Despite encountering lineup changes, the band’s resilience and distinctive sound shone through, reflecting the band’s growth and reflection on themes of alienation and defiance.

Moving on to number 9 is “Some Say,” a standout slow jam that highlights a more serious and introspective side of Sum 41. Led by poignant acoustic guitar melodies and Whibley’s insightful lyrical storytelling, the song delves into themes of apathy and self-reliance, showcasing a depth beyond the band’s typical party-focused persona.

At number 8, we have the rebellious anthem “Fat Lip,” the band’s debut single from their album All Killer No Filler. With its infectious guitar riff and blend of rap and metal influences, the song embodies Sum 41’s rebellious spirit and rejection of societal norms. The track catapulted the band into mainstream success, spending 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing their status in the pop-punk scene.

Sliding in at number 7 is “Makes No Difference,” Sum 41’s rip-roaring debut single that introduced listeners to the band’s youthful angst and infectious pop-punk melodies. The defiant lyrics and catchy chorus encapsulate the band’s signature sound, setting the stage for their energetic and rebellious musical style.

Taking the 6th spot is “The Hell Song,” a blistering track from their album Does This Look Infected? that delves into heavy themes of heartbreak and despair. Despite its intense subject matter, the song is a high-energy blast of bravado that showcases Sum 41’s prowess in crafting fast-paced, catchy rock anthems.

Rounding up the first half of our list at number 5 is “In Too Deep,” a song that explores the complexities of a failing relationship with snarky lyrics and distorted power chords. Written by Whibley at a young age, the song reflects on his personal experiences and sets the tone for the band’s signature blend of emotional depth and electrifying energy that captivated audiences.

Stay tuned as we continue our countdown of Sum 41’s top 10 songs, celebrating the band’s iconic career and lasting impact on the pop-punk genre.