Pop-punk icons Bowling for Soup are set to rock the stage in Philadelphia on Saturday, August 30, as part of their tour supporting Simple Plan’s 25th anniversary ‘Bigger Than You Think!’ tour. Along with fellow bands 3OH!3 and LØLØ, they are bringing the party to fans eager for a night of nostalgia and energetic performances.
With over 30 years in the music scene, Bowling for Soup has established themselves as one of the most influential bands in pop-punk history since their formation in 1994. Their first self-titled album dropped that same year, and they quickly rose to prominence with hits from their 2002 album ‘Drunk Enough to Dance,’ which included fan favorites like ‘Emily,’ ‘Punk Rock 101,’ and the Grammy-nominated ‘Girl All the Bad Guys Want.’
Just two years later, their album ‘A Hangover You Don’t Deserve’ introduced another wave of unforgettable tracks, most notably their cover of ‘1985,’ which became a defining song for the pop-punk genre. Three decades on, these classics resonate with loyal fans and new listeners alike, keeping the band’s legacy alive.
Bowling for Soup’s frontman, Jaret Reddick, shared his enduring appreciation for their music, particularly ‘Girl All the Bad Guys Want.’ The energetic opener to their live shows elicits excitement from the audience, infusing an adrenaline rush right from the start. Reddick explained, ‘We’re opening the show with it right now, which is really weird, because historically, it’s been way towards the end. But we’re kind of coming out with a power set.’
In a demonstration of their ongoing relevance, Bowling for Soup recently celebrated surpassing one billion streams on Spotify. Reddick expressed disbelief upon learning of this impressive milestone. “It’s one of my favorite milestones of all time…I just wrote back, ‘I have no idea.’” The band’s media team soon confirmed the news, cementing this achievement as part of their enduring legacy.
Reflecting on their journey, Reddick noted, “This is another one of those things that nobody can take away from us… We will always have a billion streams. We will always have toured the world 10 times. These are all just amazing things that we’ll always have.”
As they prepare to take their music to Philadelphia, Reddick offered advice to aspiring musicians and artists. He emphasized the importance of enjoying one’s craft and being surrounded by the right people. ‘If you don’t enjoy doing what you’re doing, stop. If you don’t like the people that you’re with…don’t do it.’
He encourages young bands to expand their skillsets beyond music. Learning marketing, accounting, or website design can enrich their contributions to the band and provide additional career options. “If all of you can contribute in ways that are bigger than just your presence and your talent, you have a side hustle,” he advised.
The band’s fondness for Philadelphia extends beyond just performing; they cherish the city’s vibrant atmosphere and its passionate crowds. Reddick noted, ‘We love Philly every time we’re there. The crowds never let us down.’ Despite being a Steelers fan in a city deeply rooted in sports rivalry, he enjoys the playful banter.
Every visit to Philadelphia includes indulging in the local cuisine, especially cheesesteaks. ‘We do the whole touristy thing,’ he said, reflecting on the experiences that make their trips memorable. ‘Philly will always have a very special place in our hearts.’
As Bowling for Soup gears up for their performance in the City of Brotherly Love, their mix of nostalgia, energy, and genuine appreciation for their fans ensures an unforgettable concert experience.
image source from:metrophiladelphia