Chris Burney, the larger-than-life guitarist for ’90s pop-punk stalwarts Bowling For Soup, has revealed a personal health battle resulting in the loss of two toes.
The 55-year-old musician shared the news on Instagram, posting a photo of his left foot conspicuously missing two digits. In true Burney fashion, he captioned it with humour: “I’m a Free-nubbin, butt-rubbin son of a gun.”
This revelation comes on the heels of Burney’s announcement last summer that he would be stepping away from the band he co-founded in 1994. Citing medical challenges and the relentless grind of three decades on the road, Burney decided it was time to hang up his guitar. His health issues became apparent when he took a hiatus to recover from a leg injury, leading to his absence from major events like the 2024 Download Festival.
Despite his departure, Bowling For Soup has chosen not to replace Burney, performing as a trio instead. Frontman Jaret Reddick emphasized the irreplaceable bond they share: “He and I started this band 30 years ago… we wouldn’t be us, or where we are, without him.” The band, now comprising Reddick, drummer Gary Wiseman, and bassist Rob Felicetti, continues to honour Burney’s legacy while forging ahead.
Known for infectious hits like “Girl All the Bad Guys Want,” “1985,” and “High School Never Ends,” Bowling For Soup has been a mainstay in the pop-punk scene. Burney’s charismatic stage presence and signature riffs have been integral to the band’s identity. As he steps back to focus on his health, fans worldwide are rallying behind him.
While the specifics of Burney’s condition remain private, his openness about his struggles highlights the often-overlooked challenges musicians face behind the scenes. As Bowling For Soup continues their journey, the spirit and humour Burney brought to the stage will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of their performances.
You can see the photo’s of Burney’s toes below. Although, I would advise, they are not for the faint- hearted.
