Jed Promotional Press Release Kit (1989)

Here comes another treat from contributor Bailey. A nice insight from the band’s past, specifically from the “Jed” era.

First and foremost, this Promo Press Release Kit was likely mislabeled by whoever published it. It is tagged as 1987 promotional material. That is certainly incorrect. These releases are usually distributed mere days, or few weeks, before the album is officially issued. Consequently, the correct year for it is indeed 1989.

The kit offers a very brief description of how the band was formed. On top of that, there is a very interesting story about former drummer George Tutuska. I will not spoil it and will leave you to discover it for yourself.

Thanks again Bailey for the precious content!

Promotional Press Release Kit

for

Goo Goo Dolls

Jed

Johnny – Guitar

Robbie – Bass and Vocals

George – Drums

It was the winter of 1986-1987 and on a sidewalk in the city of Buffalo, three young men stand in the rain sharing laughs and pondering life with just enough money between them to buy a six-pack . . .

Meet George, a drummer . . . no he’s more like a personality with a drum kit and Johnny, borrowed guitars on borrowed time. Then there’s Robbie, a black haired, bare foot bass player. Three angles with dirty faces and a desire to infuse sincerity into a pop medium built on too much hype and too much hair spray.

A reckless recording session followed by a fateful trip to old New York driven by the spirit of the Ramones but directed by the sight of Ray Charles, leads to an even more reckless recording deal. The key catch words were important, immediate, and release. The three Dolls learned all too quickly the nature of the business when immediately turned into four months later. When you’re promised silver, expect tin.

It was the summer of 1987, still broke and still smiling, a car destroyed Johnny’s arm and all playing was shelved for too many months and too much time off. An October showcase at the CMJ convention proved disastrous. The sound was shut off and George proceeded to outdistance one of Keith Moon’s greatest drum tosses. It was a fine achievement not appreciated by the club’s security. They decided to rearrange George’s eye socket, fracturing a cheekbone, and teach him a lesson on dance club etiquette. Trying to find the line between self-expression and self-destruction, the Goo Goo Dolls made January of 1988 a time to create. Jed is brought to life, born of fear, anger, disgust and broken homes. In the end the truth is found in self-acceptance alone.

Soon after the phone ties were severed with a leach of a label and three wise lads followed the brightest star and drove westward bearing the gift of song. The word spread and momentum gained in their crusade across America.

Their desperate frenzy attacked the audience, converting the apathetic who soon sang their praise. In their wake, one company stood apart, determined to pin down these elusive souls prepared to deliver the message of Jed.

Somewhere in the city of Buffalo . . . three young men sit in the sun sharing laughs, pondering life with the concerted agreement that a twelve is definitely in order.

Taken from here. (Archived version here).