Bowling For Soup founder Chris Burney quits band after 3 decades: 'Can't replace a legend'

Bowling For Soup founder Chris Burney quits band after 3 decades: 'Can't replace a legend'
Chris Burney started the band Bowling for Soup in 1994 with Jaret Reddick (Johnny Louis/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Chris Burney, the guitarist and co-founder of Bowling For Soup, has announced his departure from the band after an incredible 30 years.

The 55-year-old rock star, who started the band in 1994 with Jaret Reddick, has decided to step away from performing due to health reasons and years of non-stop touring.

Chris Burney retires after developing medical conditions  

The band confirmed Chris Burney’s retirement after performing as a trio for the last seven months while he focused on his well-being. They stated they would continue without replacing him, honoring his legacy.

The band confirmed Chris Burney’s retirement after performing as a trio for the last seven months while he focused on his well-being (@soupbowlerchris/IInstagram)
The band confirmed Chris Burney’s retirement after performing as a trio for the last seven months while he focused on his well-being (@soupbowlerchris/IInstagram)

Bowling For Soup shared the news with fans via Instagram, writing, “It is with a heavy heart we announce that Chris Burney has made the decision to retire from his stage-right post in the band he co-founded in 1994."


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Bowling For Soup (@bfs_official)


 

"Some recent medical developments, 30 years of rocking balls, and touring non-stop have made it difficult to continue. We are bummed to not have Chris by our sides, but absolutely support his decision," the band added. 

Jaret Reddick praises Chris Burney, says 'we wouldn't be us without him'

The message highlighted Chris Burney’s impact on the band and the music world, adding, “The three of us will carry on, with Chris’ blessing, and continue to build the legacy of this band we all love so much."

Reddick performing with Bowling for Soup in 2023 (Wikimedia Commons)
Bowling for Soup's frontman Jaret Reddick performs for the band in 2023 (Wikimedia Commons)

"We will not be replacing Chris or touring with a touring guitarist. You cannot replace a legend. We were brothers when we started this journey…and brothers we remain," read the band's statement.

Speaking to Kerrang!, frontman Jaret Reddick praised Burney, saying, “He and I started this band 30 years ago, almost 31 now, and at one point, he was kind of the face of the band."


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Chris Burney (@soupbowlerchris)


 

"I can’t say it enough: we wouldn’t be us, or where we are, without him. The guy retires a legend. There’s something to be said for that," he added.

Bowling For Soup fans react to Chris Burney's retirement

Fans expressed their love and admiration for Chris Burney following the announcement.

“Sir Burney. An absolute legend. He will be missed,” commented one fan on Instagram. The band captioned their heartfelt statement with, “You can’t replace a legend! #BowlingForSoup.”

Another fan shared, “Good on you, Chris! What’s most important is your safety and comfort. You were there all along, and we still f*****g love you!”

Many applauded his dedication and showmanship, with one fan writing, “One of the most entertaining performers I’ve ever seen in my life. And I truly mean that…Enjoy the down time @soupbowlerchris.”

"Thank you for everything over the years, Chris. I really appreciate it. Keep getting well and rocking on!” one more wrote.

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