The Used

The Used are an American alternative rock band formed in Orem, Utah, in 2001. Fronted by vocalist Bert McCracken, the group became one of the defining acts of the post-hardcore and emo scene of the early-to-mid 2000s, known for pairing aggressive, screamed vocal passages with melodic, anthemic choruses. Their self-titled 2002 debut, powered by singles like «The Taste of Ink» and «Buried Myself Alive», established them alongside bands such as My Chemical Romance and Thursday as pillars of the era's emo-rock explosion.

The band's sound has evolved considerably over two decades, moving from raw post-hardcore energy on early records toward more experimental, atmospheric, and at times electronic textures on later albums, while never abandoning the emotional intensity that defined their early work. Songs like «All That I've Got», «I Caught Fire», and «The Bird and the Worm» showcase this range, from stripped-down balladry to sprawling, theatrical arrangements.

Bassist Jeph Howard and drummer Dan Whitesides have remained key figures alongside McCracken through numerous lineup changes, including the departure of founding guitarist Quinn Allman. The Used have built a devoted, long-running fanbase through constant touring and a catalog that spans well over a dozen studio releases, cementing their status as elder statesmen of the alternative and emo-rock movement.