about the goo goo dolls

I have been a fan of The Goo Goo Dolls since the 90s, from the time I first heard "Name" on the radio. And I was more than a little shocked to discover that "A Boy Named Goo" was not their first album, but their FIFTH! I was even more shocked after I listened to the prior albums and wondered how could they not already be super well known. (Oh and also loved their song and music video from "Freddy's Dead"! I was seriously like "Who Are These Guys??")

The band has gone through a couple line-up changes, but at the heart is Johnny Rzeznik and Robby Takac. At their beginnings, Robby would take the lead on the majority of their songs. But with the second and third albums, Johnny would begin to sing more leads. These two still alternate with the lead vocals, and both are talented instrumentalists and songwriters. Their songs are always amazing!

There was a period of time where the band had gotten their first really big success after releasing the song "Name" from their fifth studio album "A Boy Named Goo", where they faced criticism from old fans who felt they "sold out". The success of "Name" really put them in the spotlight, and isn't that the goal of every band trying to make it? Don't be a hater, dear...

With this success, Johnny faced severe writer's block as well. He really struggled with his writing. Then he was asked to write a song for a movie called "City Of Angels" and then came "Iris". (And the amazing "Dizzy Up The Girl" album!!) Since then, the band has steadily released music, including live albums, compilations and now a Christmas album! I am very glad they are still making music. I will always be a Goo Goo Dolls fan forever :)

THE BAND:

Johnny Rzeznik (vocals, guitar)
Robby Takac (vocals, bass)
George Tatuska (percussion, former)
Mike Malinin (percussion, former)