John Rzeznik on Why He Avoids Politics at Concerts

Goo Goo Dolls frontman John Rzeznik emphasized during an “Everything Music” interview with producer Rick Beato that he avoids political discussions during concerts. He believes fans of various ideological backgrounds come to enjoy the music, not to receive lectures.

Rzeznik explains that despite the divisive times, live music holds significant value. He highlights that political and religious beliefs fade away when performing. “I got people, fans, friends from every walk of life, every political stripe, everything,” Rzeznik stated. “We got one thing in common: we’re all here to see a show. I’m not going to lecture people about anything.”

Entertainment commentator Christian Toto supports this view, noting that artists risk alienating their audience when they use performances as political platforms. “Artists do risk alienating fans when they get on a soapbox,” Toto says. The prevalence of celebrity political commentary only heightens this risk.

Toto points out the high cost of concert tickets as another reason fans might be dismayed by political lectures. “Imagine forking over so much money and then, mid-concert, you get a political lecture. Who wants that?” he adds.

Rzeznik’s stance aligns with Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, who has stated that his role is to entertain and not to preach, helping audiences escape from their daily troubles. Rzeznik also spoke out against AI-generated music, labeling it as “derivative” amid the resurgence in popularity for the band’s 1998 hit “Iris.”

Other artists like Bruce Springsteen and Chris Robinson have faced backlash for political commentary on stage. In contrast, Rzeznik shares a different vision for his concerts: “I’m going to play a bunch of songs that, you know, and we’re all going to leave here, and we’re going to be happier and better for it.”

With renewed interest in their music, the Goo Goo Dolls continue to engage audiences. They released a reimagined version of “Iris” with Steve Aoki and toured with Neon Trees over the summer. The anniversary edition of their album “Dizzy Up the Girl,” featuring “Iris,” was set for release on October 2.