Backstage on show day, Good Charlotte’s Benji and Joel Madden were all smiles — and all heart. Ahead of taking the stage in Los Angeles, the twin brothers caught up with iHeartRadio’s Booker and Stryker to reflect on gratitude, brotherhood, and the journey that has shaped one of rock’s most enduring bands.
It’s been a decade since Good Charlotte performed in Los Angeles, and for Benji, being back in LA carried a special weight. “I just feel excited. I feel grateful,” he shared. “LA’s home, so it’s really nice. You always have a little bit of nerves, but they hit right before. Right now, I’m just feeling gratitude.” That mix of excitement and humility set the tone for the conversation, underscoring how deeply connected Good Charlotte remains to their roots, even after decades in the spotlight.
While the band has spent recent years working behind the scenes with a new generation of artists, the experience has only reinforced what matters most. Benji explained that collaborating with and observing bands like Bad Omens, Chase Atlantic, Poppy, and others has been inspiring. “The biggest thing is learning just to be yourself and stay true to your music,” he said. “Being around so many true individuals in rock has made us a better band. We watch how they move, and we learn a lot.”
At the heart of Good Charlotte, though, is the unbreakable bond between the Madden brothers. When the topic turned personal, Joel opened up about just how essential that relationship has been. “Honestly, if I didn’t have my brother — my twin brother — I don’t know if I’d be here today,” he shared. “We’ve really made it through life as a team. We’ve overcome obstacles, had incredible life experiences, and built the lives we have by sticking together.” The sentiment echoed throughout the interview, with playful jokes about shared vocals and “one brain,” balanced by genuine emotion and respect.
As they prepared to step onstage, both brothers expressed appreciation for the fans who have supported Good Charlotte through every era. With their music continuing to resonate and their presence feeling bigger than ever, the night ahead wasn’t just another show — it was a homecoming. And for Benji and Joel, it was a reminder that gratitude, authenticity, and brotherhood remain at the core of everything they do.