On Sunday, November 9, the Goo Goo Dolls, with special guest Marc Roberge of O.A.R., headlined the first of two special benefit concerts at the famed Beacon Theatre in New York City.
The Upper West Side venue, known for its elegant, vaulted ceilings and pristine acoustics, offered a perfect setting for the alternative rock legends. The audience was a massive cross-section of fans, united by the band’s catalog of hits, including “Iris” and “Name.” The atmosphere was one of palpable excitement mixed with a deep appreciation for the show’s charitable cause. Setting the stage for a night of music that was both nostalgic and intensely present.
The evening’s deeper resonance was anchored by the cause it supported: the Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation. This organization, founded by former Yankees manager Joe Torre and his wife, Al. It’s dedicated to providing educational services to youth who have been traumatized by exposure to violence, particularly domestic abuse. Partnering with them in 2021, the band has used its platform, including selling signed guitars, to raise awareness and funds. The Beacon Theatre show was a testament to that, transforming the event from a standard concert into an impactful fundraiser. That will support the foundation’s work in helping children break the cycle of violence and find support through programs like Margaret’s Place.
Kicking off the night was Marc Roberge, the lead vocalist and guitarist for the beloved rock band O.A.R. Roberge’s presence was a fantastic choice, providing a set of raw, unvarnished acoustic energy before the main event. Armed with just a guitar and his distinctive voice, he captivated the room with a set that felt both intimate and expansive, seamlessly transitioning between O.A.R. classics and solo efforts. His connection with the crowd was immediate and genuine, with fans swaying and singing along to tracks that felt like familiar friends.
Roberge’s set list, crafted to showcase his ability to craft melodies, was a perfect appetizer for the night’s main course. He opened with a soulful acoustic version of an O.A.R. favorite, instantly pulling the front rows in. The energy continued with sing-alongs and deep cuts, demonstrating his wide ranging discography. His transition from the upbeat, jam-band adjacent rhythms of O.A.R.’s most popular tracks to more introspective, thoughtful pieces was masterful.
By the time he concluded his performance, Roberge had not only warmed up the crowd but had thoroughly won them over, making him a significant, memorable part of the night’s dynamic atmosphere. His style, often described as roots-rock and jam-band adjacent, provided a fantastic contrast to the main event. His unvarnished, authentic delivery immediately resonated in the Beacon’s intimate setting, setting the stage not for a frantic rock show, but for an evening of shared music and emotional depth.
When the Goo Goo Dolls—John Rzeznik and Robby Takac—finally took the stage, the crowd erupted. They immediately ran into “Naked,” a high-tempo, energetic opener that set a punchy tone for the extensive set. Following came “Slide,” a song that truly showcases the vocal quality on a melancholic track. Their stage presence was magnetic, moving with a natural swagger and lifelong chemistry. The set continued with the hits “Think About Me” and “Here Is Gone,” followed by the fan-favorite ballad “Black Balloon.” The band’s versatility was on full display as they transitioned from the power-pop of “Miracle Pill” to the reflective mood of “Nothing Lasts Forever” and “January Friend.”
Then came the triad of mid-set gems: “Feel the Silence,” “Sympathy,” and “Acoustic #3. The latter two being acoustic performances that commanded the audience’s full attention and emotional investment. The energy surged again with the “Name.” Following came a cascade of later-era tracks, including “Big Machine,” “Ocean,” “Stay With You,” and “Run All Night,” showcasing the band’s discography. The emotional depth continued with “Life’s a Message” and “Bringing On the Light.” Finally, putting a pause to the deeper cuts came “Better Days” and “Broadway.”
The set concluded with “Let Love In,” the Tom Petty cover “You Wreck Me.” And finally, the fan-anticipated, heart-stopping “Iris,” which caused the entire Beacon Theatre to scream in excitement and follow along to every word. This final, powerful segment, including the essential cover, cemented the band’s status as live titans. The delivery of “Iris” was a moment of clarity that shook the emotional core of the entire benefit evening.
The Beacon Theatre show was a testament to the Goo Goo Dolls’ enduring prowess as a live band. The concert proved that they are far more than a beacon of 90s nostalgia. They are artists with a clear vision and a connection to their audience. The blending of their classic alternative rock anthems with their newer material made for a dynamic and unforgettable show. They commanded the stage with both emotion and energy, leaving no doubt that their place in the rock pantheon is secure. The entire evening, from the intimate opener to the powerful finale, was a resounding success, leaving fans with memories of a night filled with heart, hits, and a love for music that speaks directly to the soul.
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