The Goo Goo Dolls, the GRAMMY-nominated rock band from Buffalo, New York, have returned with their latest single, “Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes),” released on August 1, 2025, via Warner Records. This heartfelt ballad serves as a preview of their upcoming EP, Summer Anthem, set to drop on August 22, 2025. Known for their emotionally resonant anthems and vivid lyricism, the band continues to evolve their signature sound, blending introspective storytelling with a refined, mature aesthetic.
“Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes)” is a deeply moving track that explores themes of love, loss, and the quiet acceptance of life’s impermanence. Written by frontman John Rzeznik and produced by Gregg Wattenberg (known for work with John Legend, Santana, and Noah Kahan) and Grant Michaels (Weezer, Billy Idol, Jewel), the song opens with soft synths and a dreamlike atmosphere, gradually building into a powerful yet restrained crescendo. Rzeznik’s vulnerable vocals anchor the track, with lyrics like “I just close my eyes and hold you like you’re still here” capturing the bittersweet struggle of clinging to memories while facing inevitable farewells.
Rzeznik has described the song as a meditation on mortality and the constant flux of life, stating, “‘Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes)’ is about accepting the inevitability of mortality and how life is constantly in flux.” The track’s arrangement, featuring swelling guitars and understated drums, creates a space for its emotional weight to resonate, offering fans a poignant reminder of the band’s ability to balance rock energy with lyrical intimacy.
The single is one of seven tracks on the forthcoming Summer Anthem EP, which promises to deliver the vivid lyricism and hard-hitting energy that have made the Goo Goo Dolls one of the most influential alternative rock bands of their era. The EP’s tracklist includes:
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Ocean
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Nothing Lasts Forever
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Slightly Broken
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Misery
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Such A Mystery
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Run All Night
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Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes)
The band has already shared another single, “Nothing Lasts Forever,” which, like “Not Goodbye,” showcases their ability to craft songs that resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners. The Summer Anthem EP is poised to be a concise yet powerful addition to their discography, following their 2022 album Chaos in Bloom.
Formed in 1986 by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac, the Goo Goo Dolls have built a remarkable legacy over nearly four decades. With 15 million records sold, four GRAMMY nominations, and 15 #1 and Top 10 hits, the band has left an indelible mark on popular music. Their 1998 hit “Iris” remains a cultural touchstone, recently revitalized through viral TikTok exposure and covered by artists like Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers. Albums like A Boy Named Goo (2x Platinum), Dizzy Up the Girl (5x Platinum), and Gutterflower (Gold) underscore their enduring appeal.
“Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes)” is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, where it was released as a two-song single on July 31, 2025. The track’s introspective beauty and the anticipation for the Summer Anthem EP reaffirm the Goo Goo Dolls’ ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt, timeless music. As they continue their sold-out tour and prepare for the EP’s release, the band proves once again why they remain a cornerstone of alternative rock.
For more information on the Summer Anthem EP and tour dates, visit googoodolls.com.
