Joshua and his father James at Green Day's recent concert in Malaysia. Photo: Joshua Shawn/Threads
Concerts are often seen as spaces for the young and carefree—a chance to let loose with friends. But for Joshua, 29, a recent Green Day concert in Malaysia was more than just a night of music.
It was a chance to reconnect with his father, James, 58, through a shared passion that had shaped their lives for decades.
For Joshua, this was not a spur-of-the-moment idea. Music had always been their common language.
Growing up, his father filled car rides with the sounds of Blink-182, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, and, of course, Green Day.
"He also loved playing Boney M and Bob Marley. We’d listen to radio together every time he drove me to school, tuition or organ classes," Joshua told Sinar Daily.
James, now retired, has an unwavering love for music. His hobby room is packed with CDs and cassettes, a nostalgic tribute to his punk rock roots.
"My dad’s favourite Green Day songs are Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) and Wake Me Up When September Ends. Mine are American Idiot and Boulevard Of Broken Dreams," he shared.
The concert, according to the duo, was an unforgettable experience.
"It was one of the best concerts I’ve ever attended. The energy was incredible, and they played all our favourite songs. Both of us had the time of our lives,” Joshua said.
This wasn’t their first musical outing together. Last year, Joshua treated his father to an Arijit Singh concert as a retirement gift.
"People always ask if it is awkward to go to a concert with dad," he laughs. "But not with a man who’s lived for punk rock music! He’s the reason I love music today," he said.
The concert wasn’t just about the music—it was a heartfelt reminder of how art can bridge generations.
“I wanted to give back to the man who taught me everything about music,” Joshua said.
