I am not gonna lie, I am not huge on following celebrity news, just not something that really interests me much. However, this one hit me hard. Blink 182's Mark Hoppus announced yesterday via his social media that he is battling cancer.
He revealed that he has been receiving chemo therapy for 3 months already. Mark, of course, is the original bass player and co lead singer and only remaining original member of Blink since Tom Delonge's departure from the band a few years back.
At the time of writing, Mark, age 49, has not confirmed which type of cancer he has been diagnosed with, nor at which stage he was diagnosed.
For me, Blink 182 is one of the biggest musical influences I have had in my life. I remember hearing Enema of the State in middle school, and never looking back. Blink 182 are pop punk kings, and helped define a generation of pop punk, becoming one of the biggest bands of the late 90's and early 2000's.
Travis Barker has been hinting at a new Blink album in 2021. It will be interesting to see what happens. Until then, I personally wish Mark Hoppus the best. This world needs Blink and Mark in our lives, as so much music and influence has come from his music, producing, and musical history.
Here is some Blink essentials for you to listen to.
Wishing you well Mark!
- Danny V.