Goo Goo Dolls Express Joy as Buffalo Bills Play Their Fan-Favorite Hit ‘Iris’ at Highmark Stadium
Robby Takac and John Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls in December 2025.
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Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty
The Goo Goo Dolls Honor Buffalo Bills’ Farewell to Highmark Stadium
The Buffalo Bills culminated their time at Highmark Stadium on January 4, defeating the New York Jets 35-8. This final game marked an emotional close to the venue’s 53-season run, culminating in fireworks and heartfelt singalongs, including a tribute set to the Goo Goo Dolls’ iconic song "Iris."
The Goo Goo Dolls expressed their gratitude for being part of this memorable farewell in a recent Instagram post. “What an incredible honor to have ‘Iris’ played as the very last song at @highmark_stadium — home to the @buffalobills for 53 seasons!” the band wrote, sharing cherished footage of the event.
Originally released in 1998, "Iris" achieved significant success, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning diamond certification for over 10 million units sold in the U.S. This signature track has become a hallmark of the band’s rich history.
John Rzeznik and Robby Takac, the band’s founding members who hail from Buffalo, formed Goo Goo Dolls in 1986. Reflecting on their early days, Rzeznik noted the challenges they faced in a landscape dominated by cover bands, stating, “The music scene in Buffalo wasn’t right for us in the early ’80s. There were no alt-rock clubs then, so we created our own.”
A significant transition for the Buffalo Bills is on the horizon, as they prepare to move to a new, weatherproof stadium with an investment exceeding $2 billion. This new venue, located just across Abbott Road from their old home, promises to usher in a fresh era for the team.
Bills cornerback Tre’Davious White reflected on the stadium’s legacy, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who laid the groundwork for the team. "When you think about the stadium, you can’t think about the present players," he remarked. "You’ve got to think about the guys that laid the foundation before us." As the Bills prepare for their next chapter, the memories created at Highmark Stadium will undoubtedly resonate with fans and players alike.
Ray Davis of the Buffalo Bills in January 2026.
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