How to Hire GIN BLOSSOMS For Your Event!
Members:
Bill Leen, Jesse Valenzuela, Robin Wilson, Scott “Scotty” Johnson, Scott Hessel
Based in: Arizona
Based in: Tempe
Hire: Gin Blossoms
Gin Blossoms formed in 1987 in Tempe, Arizona, blending alternative rock with pop sensibilities and a touch of jangle rock. The group initially consisted of Jesse Valenzuela, Robin Wilson, Doug Hopkins, Bill Leen, and Phillip Rhodes. The band’s name came from a humorous phrase referencing gin blossoms, a slang term for the reddish skin condition caused by excessive drinking.
Breakthrough with New Miserable Experience
The band’s 1992 breakthrough album, New Miserable Experience, propelled them to mainstream success. Fueled by radio-friendly singles like “Hey Jealousy” and “Found Out About You,” the album showcased their ability to balance introspective lyrics with infectious melodies. Tragically, Doug Hopkins, the primary songwriter for several hits, left the band during this period due to struggles with alcoholism and later passed away.
– Hire Gin Blossoms for your festival or concert plans! – (t,s)
Struggles and Commercial Success
Despite the internal challenges, New Miserable Experience went on to achieve multi-platinum status. Their sound struck a chord during the 1990s alternative rock explosion, earning them both critical and commercial acclaim. Songs like “Until I Fall Away” and “Allison Road” further cemented their position in the genre.
Sophomore Effort and Hiatus
In 1996, Gin Blossoms released their follow-up album, Congratulations I’m Sorry, featuring hits like “Follow You Down” and “As Long as It Matters,” the latter earning a Grammy nomination. However, creative tensions and the pressures of maintaining their success led to the band’s dissolution in 1997.
Reunion and Continued Touring
Gin Blossoms reunited in 2001 and have remained active since, performing their classic hits and releasing new material. Albums like Major Lodge Victory (2006) and No Chocolate Cake (2010) demonstrated their enduring knack for catchy songwriting, while frequent touring kept them connected to their loyal fan base.
Legacy in Alternative Rock
The Gin Blossoms’ mix of heartfelt lyrics and accessible melodies continues to resonate with audiences. Their music is often associated with the quintessential 1990s sound, earning them a spot in the era’s cultural and musical history.
Gin Blossoms has been described as an alternative rock, jangle pop, power pop, and post-grunge band. According to Rolling Stone, the band excels at “marrying world-weary lyrics with ebullient melodies.”
In 2017, the Salina Journal described Gin Blossoms as a “Tempe, Arizona-based Indie band [acclaimed] by critics and fans alike for its chiming guitars, introspective lyrics and catchy pop-rock melodies,” adding that “Gin Blossoms has maintained its longevity by being mostly a road band.” The group is known for the “Mill Avenue sound”, or “southwestern sound”, similar to other bands from Arizona such as The Sidewinders, The Refreshments, The Meat Puppets, and Dead Hot Workshop.
– Hire Gin Blossoms for your special event. –
New Miserable Experience became the band’s breakthrough album. New Miserable Experience eventually reached quadruple platinum status.
Their discography includes six studio albums, one live album, two EPs, four compilation albums, and 15 singles.
How do I book Gin Blossoms? See below.
Hire Gin Blossoms for your party or event!
Learn booking fee and availability.
How much does it cost to book Gin Blossoms? See below.
Gin Blossoms may be available for your next special event!
What is the Gin Blossoms booking fee? See below.
Book Gin Blossoms, now!
For other great suggestions for booking music acts, look here.