“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls is a sweeping, emotional rock ballad released in 1998, written for the soundtrack of the film City of Angels and later included on the band’s album Dizzy Up the Girl. It became the band’s signature song and one of the most beloved rock ballads of the late 1990s.
Written by frontman John Rzeznik, the song expresses themes of unconditional love, vulnerability, and longing to be truly seen by someone. The chorus—“I just want you to know who I am”—captures the ache of deep emotional connection and the desire to drop all pretense in love.
Musically, “Iris” blends orchestral arrangements with acoustic and electric guitars, creating a lush, dramatic soundscape. The song’s unusual tuning (a variation of D-D-D-D-D-D) gives it a distinctive, open resonance. Rzeznik’s raspy, heartfelt vocals drive the song’s intensity.
“Iris” was a massive commercial hit, spending 18 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart, even before it was released as a commercial single. It also earned Grammy nominations and helped transform Goo Goo Dolls from a scrappy alt-rock band into international stars.
The song remains a timeless staple of ’90s rock and continues to be widely played at weddings, proms, and on adult contemporary radio. With its soaring emotion, poetic lyrics, and cinematic sound, “Iris” is a powerful anthem of love and vulnerability.