Music History

How did Nickelback become such a punchline? Let’s explore this mystery.

I’ve never understood the animus directed at Nickelback. The truth is that they’re a solid mainstream rock act with arena-rock songs that have sold more than 50 million albums. They have fans around the world and in the first decade of this century was the second-most-popular foreign act in America behind The Beatles.

Come early next year, there will be a Nickelback documentary. At one point, I pop up asking why NIckelback gets such hate. Fine. Some people don’t like their music. But the amount of hate directed their way is completely disproportionate and unwarranted.

So how did this happen? Here’s one take on the situation.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 39325 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

2 thoughts on “How did Nickelback become such a punchline? Let’s explore this mystery.

  • I’m a big believer in the idea that the ONLY people keeping the Nickelback hate machine going are pointless bloggers using it as clickbait. Saw them live at wembly and they were phenomenal. #HatersGonnaHate

    Reply
  • Didn’t Strombo used to sign off of his 102.1 midnight punk show with something along the lines of “and now back to Creed and Nickelback”? That would have been around 2002 or early 2003.

    Reply

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