Dammit

"Dammit" (sometimes subtitled "Growing Up") is a song by American rock band Blink-182, released in September 1997, as the second single from the group's second studio album, Dude Ranch (1997). Written by bassist Mark Hoppus, guitarist Tom DeLonge, and drummer Scott Raynor, the song examines frustration and vulnerability in adolescent breakups. Its simple four-chord guitar riff, brisk tempo, and direct, relatable lyrics exemplify the band's early skate punk style. It was produced by Mark Trombino. Hoppus wrote "Dammit" in a burst of inspiration around a fictional breakup narrative, making it an exception among the band's early songs, which were often drawn from personal experience. Hoppus built the song around a familiar chord progression, but conceived its signature intro while experimenting on an acoustic guitar missing two strings. Its accompanying music video, directed by Ken Daurio and Darren Doane, increased the band's exposure, as did its inclusion in the 1998 film Can't Hardly Wait. Upon its release, "Dammit" was a breakthrough for the band, becoming their first major hit, reaching number 11 on Billboard's Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. It became a staple of modern-rock radio, gaining heavy airplay and boosting the band's profile internationally. Critics have frequently ranked "Dammit" among the band's best, praising its catchy riff, songwriting, and universal themes. The song has remained a staple of the band's live performances, traditionally serving as its concert closer. It is widely regarded as one of the defining pop-punk songs, and has been covered by a number of artists.