The Goo Goo Dolls came to the Adler Theater in Davenport, IA On Nov. 6, 2019 to perform everything from their debut song to their recent studio album, “Miracle Pill.”
The Goo Goo Dolls is an alternative rock band that formed in the late ‘80s in New York City by Johnny Rzeznik, who is lead singer and guitarist. They are successfully known for their songs “Iris,” “Slide” and “Name,” which were all three successful songs released in 1998.
The band’s original line up included Johnny Rzeznik for guitar and vocals, Robby Takac for bass and vocals and George Tutuska for drums and percussion. However, today the band only consists of two members: Rzeznik and Takac.
The inspiration behind the band’s name, “The Goo Goo Dolls,” may surprise fans who might like to imagine a deeper meaning behind it. It “came out of a crazy party,” Rzeznik said in an interview with The Observer. “I’d always wished the name was better.”
Despite this wish, Rzeznik believes that the title of group serves as a great reminder of mistakes and success.
Rzeznik also loves traveling to perform with the band.
“Its really cool coming to small towns to perform at theatres,” Rzeznik said. “Fans still want to see the band perform.”
Rzeznik said that “the album is about making connections” and that through it, he wants to artistically urge young adults in this generation to stop allowing the internet to influence and control their authentic selves.
Rzeznik also questions whether the internet’s influence in the world is a positive one. Rzeznik said he believes the influence of the internet causes loneliness and disconnection.
“Teens from our generation come from a day and age where social media can make you appear to be anything manipulating what people think is the truth,” Rzeznik said.
The inspiration for the music is not the only thing important to a performance. The audience is also an important factor and the overall response from the audience based on the performance is a great one.
“I really favored how you didn’t have to know every song to enjoy the experience,” Henry Justin, a high school student from Davenport said.
Justin said his favorite song performed was ‘Slide’ and believes ‘The Goo Goo Dolls’ had a good interaction and connection with their audience throughout the performance. His two friends, who were also at the concert for a birthday celebration, agreed with him.
Catch The Goo Goo Dolls on tour as they showcase their new album. They’ll be traveling the country all the way through February to spread their connection-centered message.