Bowling For Soup, the beloved pop-punk band known for hits like “1985” and “Girl All the Bad Guys Want,” announced the departure of founding member and guitarist, Chris Burney, after a remarkable 30-year run. Burney’s decision to retire stems from a combination of recent health developments and the relentless demands of three decades of touring. The band expressed their full support for his decision, acknowledging the difficulty of continuing under such circumstances. While the news marks a significant shift for Bowling For Soup, the remaining members, Jaret Reddick, Erik Chandler, and Gary Wiseman, have affirmed their commitment to carrying on as a trio, honoring the legacy they built with Burney.
The band made the announcement via an emotional Instagram post, expressing their gratitude to fans for their unwavering support and acknowledging the profound impact Burney has had on their journey. They stressed the irreplaceable nature of Burney’s contributions, both musically and personally, emphasizing that they would not be seeking a replacement guitarist. Frontman Jaret Reddick further elaborated on the impact of Burney’s departure in an interview, reminiscing about their shared history and highlighting Burney’s instrumental role in shaping the band’s identity and success. Reddick underscored the deep bond they forged over three decades, affirming that their brotherhood remains strong despite the change in lineup.
The remaining members of Bowling For Soup are determined to forge ahead, preserving the spirit and energy that have defined their music for decades. They view this new chapter not as an ending, but as a continuation of their shared journey, albeit with a different dynamic. While acknowledging the undeniable void left by Burney’s absence, they remain committed to delivering the high-octane performances and infectious melodies that have garnered them a devoted fanbase worldwide. The band’s decision not to replace Burney is a testament to the respect they hold for his unique contributions, recognizing that his presence cannot be replicated.
The news of Burney’s departure comes as Bowling For Soup prepares for their upcoming UK tour, alongside Wheatus and Magnolia Park. The tour is set to kick off in Blackpool, a location that holds both fond memories and cautionary tales for Reddick, who recounted a particularly memorable hangover experience in the seaside town. Despite this, he expressed his excitement to return to Blackpool, praising the energy of the audience and looking forward to connecting with fans once again. While the tour will undoubtedly feel different without Burney on stage, the band remains dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience for their fans.
As Bowling For Soup embarks on this new chapter, they carry with them the weight of their shared history and the legacy they built alongside Chris Burney. The band’s decision to continue as a trio is a testament to their resilience, their dedication to their music, and the unwavering bond between the remaining members. While Burney’s presence will be deeply missed, his contributions will forever be etched in the band’s DNA. The remaining members will undoubtedly channel their emotions into their music, creating a new sound that honors the past while embracing the future.
The future of Bowling For Soup will undoubtedly be different, but their commitment to their music and their fans remains unwavering. As they embark on this new chapter, they carry with them the spirit of camaraderie, creativity, and unadulterated fun that has defined their music for three decades. While Burney’s absence will be felt, his legacy will continue to inspire and resonate within the band and with their fans for years to come. The story of Bowling For Soup is far from over; it is simply evolving, adapting, and finding new ways to connect with the music that brought them together in the first place.
