The Goo Goo Dolls brought warmth and nostalgia to their first-ever NPR Tiny Desk Concert, delivering a close-up, heartfelt four-song set that highlighted both their classic hits and their newer work.
John Rzeznik, joined by Robby Takac and their touring band, opened with the lively fan favorite “Slide” before shifting into the softer, emotional mood of “Feel the Silence.” Rzeznik admitted he felt intimidated by the intimate space, joking that everyone could be on a first-name basis, which made the moment even more personal.
They then performed the newer track “Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes)” from their Summer Anthem EP, showing that the band still has fresh stories to tell. Finally, they closed with their timeless ballad “Iris,” inviting the small audience to sing along in one of the concert’s most touching moments.
With warm acoustic arrangements, gentle harmonies, and Rzeznik’s slightly rough but honest vocals, the Goo Goo Dolls turned the Tiny Desk into a quiet celebration of their music, proving that their songs still carry deep emotion and connection after all these years.
