"The Authority Song" by Jimmy Eat World

Arizona alternative rock band Jimmy Eat World formed way back in 1993 and, after cultivating a loyal fan base, scored a major commercial success with their infectious single, "The Middle." "The Middle" (no relation to the TV sit-com of the same name) landed at #5 in 2002. Unfortunately, it did not secure future chart success for the band. Follow-up single "Sweetness" stalled at #75 and their final chart appearance came in 2005 when "Pain" hit #93.

Like "The Middle," "The Authority Song" is another gem from the near-perfect fourth record originally titled after the stormy lead-off track, "Bleed American." But after the 9/11 terror attacks, the band reissued the album as a self-titled release, sensitive to the notion that "Bleed American" could be offensive at the time. The deluxe version of this breakthrough record in 2008 reclaimed the "Bleed American" title.

"The Authority Song" is indeed written about John Mellencamp's classic hit from the 80s. It is a catchy and spirited tune with wonderful backing vocals that should have been released as a single. I'm surprised other notable tracks, like "A Praise Chorus" and "If You Don't, Don't," didn't burn up the charts.

The band continues to release new records, their latest being "Integrity Blues" from 2016. I'd say my second favorite record from their catalogue is 2007's "Chase This Light."