Chris Burney, the legendary guitarist of the iconic band Bowling For Soup, has announced his permanent retirement from the group following significant health challenges culminating in the loss of two toes. At the age of 55, Burney has faced increasing medical complications, leading him to step away from the stage for good.
The health update first came last summer when Chris revealed he had lost one toe after what he humorously described as kitchen-related mishaps. This month, he shared graphic images on his Instagram account showing the aftermath of surgeries where he lost two of his toes, stating with his characteristic humor, “I’m a Free-nubbin, butt-rubbin son of a gun.” Alongside this lighthearted acknowledgement of his situation, he posted photos of his foot wrapped in bandages, touching his fans with his resilience.
This health battle prompted him to officially retire from Bowling For Soup, the band he co-founded back in 1994. The announcement was made through the band's Instagram account, where they expressed their sadness over Burney's decision. “It is with a heavy heart we announce... 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,” they wrote.
Despite Burney's absence from the lineup following his retirement announcement, the band reassured fans of “the future of Bowling For Soup” and confirmed they would not be replacing him. “You cannot replace a legend... We were brothers when we started this music bomb of fun...,” they emphasized, making it clear Burney would always be part of the Bowling For Soup family.
Bowling For Soup is best known for their catchy hits from the late 90s and early 2000s, including “Girl All the Bad Guys Want,” “1985,” and “Almost.” They gained notoriety throughout their careers, with “1985” becoming one of their defining tracks, off the 2004 album A Hangover You Don’t Deserve. Their most recent release was the album Pop Drunk Snot Bread which came out in 2022.
Burney’s health struggles have been accompanied by tributes from fans and colleagues. The remaining members of the band, Jaret Reddick, Gary Wiseman, and Rob Felicetti, have remained supportive throughout this transition, acknowledging how difficult it has been for everyone involved. “He’s got some health stuff going on... His attitude is good. He keeps us as updated as he wants to, but it’s really not all he wants to talk about,” said Reddick on Burney's current state.
Bowling For Soup’s dedication to their roots and each other has shaped their long-standing career, cementing their place within the hearts of fans. Even as Burney steps away from the spotlight, the band's continuing legacy can be honored with the same fervor they had when they first started touring together.
Fans have expressed both their concerns and their unwavering support for Burney as he navigates this health crisis. It’s evident how much his contributions have meant to the band and to the music scene at large. Buoyed by his trademark humor, Burney is likely to keep sharing updates as he embarks on this new chapter of life post-retirement.
This health battle reminds fans of the human side of rock ‘n roll legends and the importance of health and personal well-being above all. With the band continuing on without him, Chris Burney's influence and spirit will undoubtedly be felt for years to come within Bowling For Soup and the broader music community.