Robby Takac of Goo Goo Dolls reflects on the 30th anniversary of *A Boy Named Goo*, discussing the band's surge to prominence in the mid-'90s following the unexpected success of "Name," and their enduring passion and drive.
Stream: *A Boy Named Goo* – Goo Goo Dolls
Few bands have adapted to the shifting landscape of rock music quite like the Goo Goo Dolls. Beginning from their gritty punk origins in Buffalo’s underground scene to becoming multi-platinum stars, the group—fronted by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac—has created a nearly four-decade legacy. Their music has resonated with generations, providing a soundtrack to everything from late-'90s heartbreak to stadium anthems, yet they continue to be just as restless and creatively ambitious today as they were at the outset.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of *A Boy Named Goo*, the album that radically transformed their journey. While many recall it for giving rise to "Name," the track that propelled the Goo Goo Dolls into the mainstream, Takac perceives it as more than that—a crucial moment in the band's sonic development. As they prepare to launch a deluxe edition of the album and set off on another international tour, Takac reflects on the band's history while keeping his focus firmly on the future. The Goo Goo Dolls’ *A Boy Named Goo* (30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) is slated for release on March 14, 2025!
In an interview with Atwood Magazine, Takac discusses the creation of *A Boy Named Goo*, the band's ongoing creative journey, and the challenges of balancing nostalgia with the desire to create new music. He proves that while anniversaries provide a chance for reflection, Goo Goo Dolls are still moving forward with relentless energy. "We don’t really sit around reminiscing about our old records; we’re constantly focused on what’s next," he shares.
Indeed, while this 30th anniversary celebration is imminent, the Goo Goo Dolls are already diligently working on their 15th studio album—a follow-up to 2022’s *Chaos in Bloom*. “We’re piecing together some chords and singing melodies, and just getting it together again,” he adds.
The Goo Goo Dolls’ *A Boy Named Goo* (30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) will be available in digital and physical formats on March 14th and will feature the original track listing, B-sides, and multiple live recordings, including a complete set from their 1996 performance at The Aladdin Theatre in Las Vegas—providing fans with a deeper insight into the era that shaped the band's path.
Combining their raw, punk-infused roots with the emotionally charged songwriting that would come to define their future, *A Boy Named Goo* remains a vibrant highlight in the Goo Goo Dolls’ discography, with its blend of grit and melody as striking as ever. Its influence is unmistakable; tracks like "Name" and "Long Way Down" still resonate, while deeper cuts like "Flat Top" and "Ain't That Unusual" (a personal favorite of Takac's) showcase the album's enduring richness.
"We still created this album while sitting in a cold, damp garage," recalls Takac with a smile. "There were no guarantees when we made this record; the only certainty was we'd get another chance."
Three decades later, *A Boy Named Goo* stands as evidence of the band's unyielding evolution, demonstrating that reinvention and longevity can go hand in hand.
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:: stream/purchase *A Boy Named Goo* here ::
:: connect with Goo Goo Dolls here ::
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A CONVERSATION WITH GOO GOO DOLLS
Atwood Magazine: Robby, thank you for your time today! How has your 2025 started off?
Robby Takac: It’s been going well! I’m trying to avoid the news as much as possible; my heart can't take it. But we’ve been working on a lot of songs. I hope to release a record by summer, likely after we visit Australia and Africa. We’re headed to South Africa for some shows, too. I've also been watching my daughter play basketball. Just staying busy—you know how it is with all the upcoming touring!
I was thrilled to see the announcement for the 30th anniversary of *A Boy Named Goo*. How long has this anniversary project been in the works, and why celebrate it now?
Robby Takac: It’s always nice to take a step back and acknowledge, "Wow, it’s been a while!" We don’t often reminisce about our past records; we’re mostly focused on the future. This gives us an opportunity to do that. My manager often discovers cool gems from our past during his desk cleanouts. As we dig through our vaults, we find some interesting material, providing a perfect chance to commemorate a transformative period for us. We documented a lot
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Robby Takac of Goo Goo Dolls reminisces about the 30th anniversary of A Boy Named Goo, the band's ascent to fame in the mid-‘90s following the surprising popularity of “Name,” and shares their continued passion and determination.