The Black Parade is the third studio album by American rock band My Chemical Romance, first released on October 23, 2006, through Reprise Records. A concept album, it is centered on the story of a man suffering from terminal cancer known as "The Patient", as he nears the end of his life. It has predominantly been considered an emo, alternative rock, pop-punk, hard rock, and punk rock, and glam rock record. It was produced by the band alongside Rob Cavallo. In the years since its release, The Black Parade has been revered by music journalists as one of, if not the most important album to the history of the emo music genre, as well as My Chemical Romance's defining work. The album's popularity ended the dominance of emo pop, and influenced the sound of future rappers, numerous metalcore bands, contemporary pop artists, and film soundtracks. It also left a significant impact on alternative culture and fashion.