Jaret Reddick: A Lifetime of Storytelling, Pop Punk, and Rock and Roll
Jaret Reddick, frontman of Bowling for Soup, joins Press Play Radio Conversations for a lively look back at the music, artists, and experiences that shaped his career. From discovering hair metal as a kid to becoming one of the recognizable voices of pop punk, Reddick reflects on the musical journey that ultimately helped define Bowling for Soup.
Growing up in a family that listened to music constantly, Reddick was first drawn to artists who could tell stories through their songs. He credits artists including Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, and The Eagles with helping shape his approach to songwriting. For Reddick, the magic was in being able to picture a song like you were reading a book. Those storytelling instincts would eventually become an important part of Bowling for Soup's identity.
His musical world expanded dramatically when he discovered Ozzy Osbourne and hair metal. Reddick remembers being fascinated by Ozzy's sound and the larger than life presence surrounding him in the 1980s. Soon after, Mötley Crüe's Shout at the Devil arrived, and seeing Tommy Lee perform made an immediate impression. Music eventually became more important to him than sports, while his tastes continued getting heavier before another discovery changed his direction once again.
That turning point came when a college friend introduced him to The Descendents, early Green Day, and The Ramones. Reddick realized that music could be fast and energetic while still being melodic, featuring strong vocals and harmonies. That combination became an important part of the evolution that eventually led to Bowling for Soup.
The conversation also dives into one of Bowling for Soup's biggest songs, “1985.” Reddick explains how the song came to him from Mitch Allen of SR 71 and how he changed certain lyrics because he wanted the story to feel visual without being unnecessarily mean. He also discusses the song's Mötley Crüe influence, particularly the connection to “Home Sweet Home,” and the way “1985” ultimately connected different generations of listeners.
Reddick's connection to music history continues through the artists he has admired throughout his life. He remembers seeing Night Ranger at around 12 or 13 years old as the first concert he attended without his parents, while earlier childhood concerts included artists such as Tammy Wynette and Willie Nelson. He also reflects on The Descendents and their influence on the pop punk movement that would eventually become such a major part of his own career.
The interview also looks toward the present, with Reddick discussing Bowling for Soup's upcoming covers project. Rather than reinventing the songs, the band decided to pay tribute to their friends and peers by recording their versions of songs from the pop punk era. He mentions Sum 41's “In Too Deep,” Simple Plan, and “Teenage Dirtbag” as part of the project, which reflects the band's appreciation for the music and artists that came alongside them.
Even after decades in music, Reddick remains engaged with what's happening in the scene today. He highlights The Paradox, Don't Panic, Authority Zero, and Propagandhi as artists whose current music he is enjoying, while also emphasizing his tendency to support his friends and fellow musicians. His conversation with Press Play Radio Conversations ultimately reveals an artist whose career has been shaped by storytelling, humor, musical discovery, and a lasting love for rock and roll.