Tempe To Recognize Gin Blossoms With Honorary Street Name

TEMPE, AZ —The City of Tempe announced Friday that it will be honoring 90's rockers the Gin Blossoms — who originated in the city — by naming a stretch of road after one of the band's most famous songs.

On Oct. 14, a stretch of 8th Street that runs between Rural Road and Una Avenue and in front of Creamery Park will be designated as Allison Road Avenue.

The honorary designation will include colorful street signs, though 8th Avenue mailing addresses will remain the same.

The announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of the band's biggest album "New Miserable Experience." The album sold more than 5 million copies, was on the chart for almost three years and produced several hit singles, including: "Hey Jealousy," "Until I Fall Away," "Found Out About You," and "Allison Road."

The band also is credited with launching what has been called "The Tempe Sound," according to the city. Other local bands during that era include The Refreshments and the Pistoleros.

The Gin Blossoms actually revealed the street name news on Thursday—a day before the city made it official — during their concert at the Arizona Federal Theatre in Phoenix.

"We've been together for 34 years, and 30 years ago we released our major-label debut 'New Miserable Experience,'" lead singer Robin Wilson told the crowd. "To celebrate that, the City of Tempe is going to rename 8th Street in Tempe Allison Road Avenue.

"You're all invited October 14, sometime in the morning, we're going to have a ceremony down on 8th Street."

Later, Wilson revealed why the honor meant so much to him and the band.

"Tempe is my home and heart forever," Wilson said. "My recording studio was on 8th Street inside Four Peaks Brewery for 20 years. There are no words for the intense pride I feel for this honor."

Tempe Councilmember Joel Navarro said the City Council was pleased to honor the band with the Allison Road Avenue designation.

"I have a lot of fond memories of watching the Gin Blossoms perform on Mill Avenue," Navarro said. "They were our own Tempe band, but they also brought our city substantial national attention. The fact that this album is still being played on the radio today is a testament to their talent."

Details about the band's current tour are available on the Gin Blossom's website.