Goodnight Nurse
Goodnight Nurse were a prominent pop punk band from New Zealand, initially forming in Auckland back in 2001. Originating as a trio, the band later expanded into a quartet prior to the release of their second album. The original lineup comprised lead vocalist Joel Little, guitarist and backing vocalist Sam McCarthy, bassist Rowan Crowe, and drummer/backing vocalist Jaden Parkes.
The band’s discography includes two studio albums: “Always and Never” (2006) and “Keep Me On Your Side” (2008). Both albums achieved considerable success, peaking at number five on the New Zealand Top 40 Album chart. Throughout their career, Goodnight Nurse consistently delivered hits, with a string of nine singles making their mark on the New Zealand music scene. Notably, they maintained a presence on the top 40 charts every year from 2004 to 2009.
History
Formation and Early Activity
Goodnight Nurse’s inception traces back to 2001 when bassist Paul Taite responded to a flyer distributed by Joel Little and Jaden Parkes at Shadows, the Auckland University bar. Their first jam session took place on June 25, 2001, in Parkes’ garage. Despite Taite’s limited bass experience at the time, the trio embarked on their musical journey.
The band’s debut concert occurred at Papa Jacks / Voodoo Lounge in Auckland in early 2002. Their breakthrough came with the Boost Mobile NZ Schools Tour in 2004, a monumental nationwide tour spanning 120 venues over five months, setting a record in New Zealand’s music history.
Always and Never (2006)
Goodnight Nurse’s debut album, “Always and Never,” swiftly earned gold certification just one week post-release. The album’s chart-topping success solidified the band’s position in the music scene, with singles like “Loner,” “Going Away,” and “Death Goes to Disco” resonating with audiences.
Following their debut album’s acclaim, Goodnight Nurse embarked on extensive touring, sharing stages with renowned acts like Fall Out Boy, Story of the Year, and HIM. Their energetic performances and catchy tunes garnered widespread acclaim.
Keep Me on Your Side (2008)
“Keep Me On Your Side,” the band’s sophomore effort, further propelled their musical journey. The album’s lead single, “The Night,” captured listeners’ attention, accompanied by a captivating music video. Goodnight Nurse’s dynamic sound and infectious melodies continued to captivate audiences across New Zealand and beyond.
In support of their second album, the band secured coveted opening slots for acts like OneRepublic and The Getaway Plan. However, amidst their flourishing career, individual members began exploring side projects, with Jaden Parkes launching “Like You Crazy” and Sam McCarthy fronting the band Kids of 88.
Reunion and Beyond
After a hiatus following their indefinite hiatus, Goodnight Nurse reunited for a memorable performance opening for My Chemical Romance in March 2023. Though their collective journey paused, the band members pursued diverse musical endeavors, with Joel Little achieving Grammy recognition as a songwriter and producer, while Sam McCarthy and Jordan Arts formed the duo Kids of 88.
Genre and Legacy
Lead singer Joel Little describes Goodnight Nurse as a fusion of pop rock and punk influences, akin to American pop-punk icons like Green Day and Blink-182. Their legacy resonates through their infectious melodies, energetic performances, and enduring impact on the New Zealand music scene.
Band Members
- Joel Little: Lead Vocals, Guitar
- Jaden Parkes: Drums, Backing Vocals
- Sam McCarthy: Guitar, Backing Vocals
- Rowan Crowe: Bass
Member Changes and Hiatus
In early 2007, bassist Paul Taite departed from Goodnight Nurse to pursue opportunities in Europe. His exit prompted the recruitment of Sam McCarthy from CapGunHero to fill the bassist role. The band transitioned into a four-piece lineup, with Rowan Crowe joining as the new bassist.
Discography
- Always and Never (2006)
- Keep Me on Your Side (2008)
Goodnight Nurse’s discography is characterized by two studio albums, “Always and Never” and “Keep Me on Your Side.” Their debut album, “Always and Never,” achieved gold certification shortly after its release in 2006. It featured hit singles like “Loner,” “Going Away,” and “Death Goes to Disco.” The band’s sophomore effort, “Keep Me on Your Side,” continued their chart-topping success, with singles such as “The Night” captivating audiences.
In February 2010, Goodnight Nurse announced an indefinite hiatus, expressing gratitude to fans for their unwavering support. While the band’s future remains uncertain, the individual members continue to explore new musical horizons, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
