Emos relive their teenage years in the noughties

In the early 2000s, a unique subculture known as emo emerged, characterized by its distinct music, fashion, and emotional expression. This era is fondly remembered by many, and an exhibition titled 'I'm Not Okay: An Emo Retrospective' has opened at the Barbican Music Library, drawing in over 35,000 visitors eager to relive their teenage years. The exhibition features a collection of photographs, memorabilia, and personal stories that capture the essence of emo culture. The walls are adorned with images of packed concerts, candid backstage moments, and intimate portraits of young emos, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for those who experienced this vibrant scene. AJ Turner, a 32-year-old musician, shared their personal journey with emo culture, stating, 'The emo subculture was more than just a scene for me as a teenager in the noughties. It was a lifeline at a time when I was experiencing severe depression, loneliness, and bullying. ' AJ emphasized how attending emo concerts provided them with a sense of belonging and understanding during difficult times. Even now, AJ identifies as emo, as their music continues to be influenced by that period. They proudly wore a T-shirt that read 'MCR (My Chemical Romance) saved my life' to gigs, a sentiment that still holds true for them today. The emo culture, which peaked in the 2000s, was defined by its music, fashion, and emotional depth. Bands like My Chemical Romance and their hit song 'Welcome To the Black Parade' played a significant role in bringing emo music into the mainstream. The exhibition delves into themes of identity, angst, and the search for self-expression that resonated with a generation of young people. AJ noted that while the subculture faced criticism in the media, it provided solace for many during challenging times. The display includes clothing, photographs, and vintage technology that were integral to the emo experience. Jamie Brett, the creative director and curator at the Museum of Youth Culture, explained that emo originated in Washington DC in the 1980s and later evolved into a related subculture called scene in the mid-2000s. Scene culture was characterized by its bright colors, bold hairstyles, and layered clothing. Social media platforms like Myspace, Buzznet, and hi5 allowed young people to showcase their unique styles to a global audience. Jamie remarked, 'For the first time, young people were using the internet to express themselves - it was the first digital subculture. ' The exhibition also serves as a platform for visitors to share their personal stories and memories. Many attendees have contributed their own photos and experiences from their emo days. Among the visitors were Maddie, Seren, and Molly, who attended the exhibition to celebrate Seren's birthday. They expressed their delight in seeing the memories of others and how it evoked feelings of nostalgia. Molly commented, 'It's really nice to see people's personal emo phases. ' Seren shared that she grew up surrounded by emo culture due to her older siblings, making it a significant part of her identity. The exhibition highlights that the emo experience is not merely a phase; it is a meaningful aspect of many people's lives. The free exhibition at the Barbican Centre is a collaboration between the Museum of Youth Culture and the Barbican Music Library, running until February 7. It invites more visitors to come and enjoy the memories of the emo era, celebrating the impact it had on a generation.