On July 23, 2025, the Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, NC, will host the “Summer Anthem Tour,” co-headlined by the Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional. The Goo Goo Dolls, formed in Buffalo, New York, in 1986, have been described as a fusion of alternative rock, pop rock, and post-grunge. Their music combines melodic hooks with heartfelt lyrics, creating songs that resonate with a wide audience. As noted in a review of their album “Chaos in Bloom,” the band delivers “the best of the best in its tight ten song tracklist with no lulls or skips,” showcasing their ability to craft compelling music that stands the test of time. For more information, visit googoodolls.com.

Sharing the stage is Dashboard Confessional, the Florida-based band known for their emotive blend of emo and acoustic rock. Led by Chris Carrabba, the band has been a staple of the early 2000s emo scene, delivering introspective lyrics and stripped-down melodies that have captivated fans for decades. Their music is characterized by its raw emotional honesty and acoustic-driven sound, as highlighted in reviews of their album “Crooked Shadows,” which notes the band’s ability to balance “acoustic guitar number[s]” with “loveable pop-rock and piercing lyrics”. To learn more, visit dashboardconfessional.com.