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dear glen ok, here's the deal. you send glen e-mail, he answers them here. sweeet! If you're so inclined, send him a note at dearglen@aol.com. And now, your latest e-mails: uploaded 11.19.03: Dear Glen, I've got to say Ilve rocked with you since I was a young girl, now pushing 40, (did I say that?!! ) I still love your music. It always takes me back to a place in time when things were alot easier, and fond memories of shall I say the 8th grade. I have been to 6 or 7 of your concerts, and enjoyed every minute, and wished it would not end. On the other hand now that I am older, I wondered how long a rock band could stay on the road away from their family. I understand the need to be with the precious ones you live for, especially now that I am a grandmother x2 + one in the oven. I wish for you, and your family happiness, and thank you for all the most excellent tunes, and memories over the years. Sincerely, Thanks for the nice note, Cari! Glen I saw the Main Event 5 times as a Journey fan and was seriously impressed by your stage presence and energy. After some investigating I found out that you were in Beatlemania as Paul. I am a big Beatle/McCartney fan. Have you ever been able to meet Paul?? Thank you very much for Palookaville, I am enjoying it all of the time. What was your inspiration for My Crowning Achievement? Now to find your other solo works. :) Please keep creating and keep us updated. Thanks, Lisa, I've been fortunate enough to have met both Paul and Ringo. What a thrill. I was slightly tongue tied with Sir Paul, but found him to be wonderfully cordial. I prefer leaving the interpretation of my songs up to the listener, but I can tell you both myself AND my collaborator on MY CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT, Bob Burger have two different takes on what it's about. My fave is when Danny Malone said he thought the song was about marriage… Glen Dear Glen, Me and my boyfriend Owen are very big fans of yours. We've been to about ten Styx shows in the past year mainly to see your incredible bass playing as well as your amazing voice and large amounts of energy. You have the best stage presence of anyone i've seen. I can't wait to buy your new cd, i know it will be great. I was wondering if you could tell me where i could find a pair of sunglasses like the ones you wore at all your styx shows? Owen constantly talked about how cool they are and how great it would be if he could find a pair like that. Which led me to thinking what a nice christmas present it would be. I wish you the best of luck with all of your solo projects to come. And can't wait to see you if you ever have any of your own tour dates. Thank you so much! Joanna Dear Joanna, You should be able to find "wrap around" sunglasses at any mall or drugstore. I think I found my 1st pair of black Nike wrap arounds at the "Sunglass Hut" but eventually replaced them with cheapo imitations at truck stops. Good luck, Glen, Hi I am 16 and LOVE Styx. I got a chance to meet you all prior to the July 8, show here in Rochester and i gotta say that you and your partners in crime where among the nicest people I've ever met and i cherish my picture taken that night. The concert was great (especially watching you run around the arena during "Kiss Your Ass Goodbye), me and my friends my age where given a night never to forget. I wish for all the best for you and family who now have time with their talented and wonderfully humorous dad. I was a bass player before this concert, yet after seeing you make music from a bass that i didn't know was possible to make, i knew i picked the right instrument, i now, more than ever list Styx, REO and Journey among the reasons why i play bass! (The Cyclorama record was great and can't wait for the live cd on 10/8, i'm gonna request "Yes I Can" for our Junior prom in May!! Thanks For Everything I'm glad to hear you and friends enjoyed yourselves so much. Cool. Good luck with the bass (many underestimate just how powerful an instrument it is!), and good luck in life! And by the way, I took a girl to her Prom once and ended up married to her for 23 years! Glen Glen, Hey Glen, My names Tiffany , I'm from a little town in New Hampshire that no one knows about. I've been listening to you since I was 11 years old. My stepdad mike (who is the biggest styx fan besides myself, even has his license plates "styxfan") got me started, and I've loved you guys ever since. My first concert was the best. It was for my birthday and they told me that we were going to go skating, man was I in for a real surprise. I was so overexcited when you guys took the stage i think i started to cry;) heheh I'm 16 now and we recently went to your concert over this summer and I took my Friend jess and now she loves you to! i'm very sorry to see you go but i wish you luck in whatever you do. I also wanted to thank you for all your music, whenever I have a bad day i'll put you guys on and it seems as if everything gets better. So thankyou very much for everything you've done. I will forever be your fan. ~Much love From Tiffany in Newhampshire~ Dear Tiffany, Thanks so much for being so enthusiastic! I hope you'll always keep enjoying the music that speaks to your heart. I recently took a driuve with my family to New Hampshire and found it lovely, by the way! Glen Dear Glen, It's been fun "getting to know you" as a musician this summer. I am one of the "Journey Faithful" who totally fell in love with your energy, and I just wanted to let you know that you've got a whole new fan base waiting to see what you do next. TAKE CARE! Thanks Melanie. I'm honored to have somewhat "won you over." Glen Hi Glen, I've been a Styx fan for 3 decades and have seen them perform more times in the last 4 years than in the previous 20. I've turned my 2 sons, ages 8 and 11 into bonefide Styx freaks. I'm very disappointed that you have left Styx. With you, they were no doubt the best they had ever been. Good luck in your solo career and we'll all just have to understand that your family comes first. I'm not sure if I were in your position if I could have left my family behind for that long, even though that had been my life long dream. But your children must come first, as do mine. We'll sincerely miss you. Scott Dudley, MA Thanks Scott. I appreciate your note! Glen Hello Glen, I have seen you every time with Styx as they came through Illinois and also once in Florida. I think you are a fabulous musician and great singer/songwriter. I, myself am a singer/songwriter and love the way you write. It is a true gift from God. My cousins live in New York and grew up in Glen Ridge NJ and they love ya too. To get to the point of my email here, I wanted to know what makes you choose the basses you do when you play. I myself, when I played bass in my band in Chicago, was also one for a great sounding and playing bass. That seems to be the norm for you also. I had a few old old precisions that I could not let go of. Do you feel the same way about basses that I do ? Looks are not that important of the bass ??? Patrick Campbell Patrick, Honestly, I like a bass to look "cool" first, then I want it to play easy (for my small hands) and lastly, I want it to sound great. But all of these are opinions and vary from musician to musician. In terms of recording, I don't care how the bass looks. But I sure love my beat up old Precision bass… And yes, I thank God for the blessings in my life. I hope I don't appear too shallow to you, but I really DO love how instruments look as well as sound. And I love my life, Glen, I am a long time fan. Saw you at the Tower Theatre in Philly on the Edge of the Century Tour (it was probably 100+ degrees in there that night). Saw you at the Stone Pony Xmas show probably 12 years ago (Mr. Reality and Mitch Malloy were there with you). Saw you at a WPST birthday show outside of Philly with the Slaves of New Brunswick in 1991 or 1992. Saw you in a small bar in Runnemede, NJ in the early 90's and at the North Star Bar in Philly in the late 90's. And I saw you with the new and improved Styx 3 times (this summer's main event tour in Philly was the most recent time). A few questions: 1. On Cyclorama, which songs besides your 2 lead vocal songs, did you contribute the most to and which are your favorites? (I like "One With Everything" the most). 2. Which Styx song(s) did you always want to play in concert but never did? and what song(s) did you like playing the least each night? (I personally don't understand why JY needs to play Miss America each and every show???) 3. Do you anticipate playing many solo shows when the new album is released? Are we ever going to see a 90 minute+ solo show in Philly??? When you were on stage with STYX, didn't you want to just start playing Here Comes Sally, When Kathy Spoke or Johnny Comes Home? Sure beats playing Lady for the 500th time... 4. Do you know any of the bands STYX was possibly going to tour with next year/summer? Can't wait to buy your new album the day it's released and hope to see you play Exit Number 9 in Philly soon. Michael from Cherry Hill Wow. Good questions Michael. I'll try to answer them: 1. As I recall, I came up with the music to the chorus of "One With Everything", contributed some lyrics to "These Are The Times" and the vocal arranging on the bridge of "Together." Though many of the songs on Cyclorama were written altogether by the band. 2. I had been lobbying for the band to play Mr Roboto since 1999 and take credit for the fact the band plays any excerpt from it at all. I personally didn't like "Queen Of Spades" or "Suite Madame Blue" all that much, but I understand Styx fans love those two. 3. I anticipate SOME solo shows in the coming year. As for ever seeing a 90 minute + solo show in Philly, hmmm. I kinda doubt it. Not unless there's some ground swell resurgence of interest in my music in that town. As I remember, while on stage with STYX, Here Comes Sally, When Kathy Spoke and Johnny Comes Home doesn't seem to have come to mind. 4. I have absolutely no clue as to the future moves by Styx. I predict more of the same for a year or three. Thanks for asking! And thanks for the years of interest you've given my music. We go back quite a ways together, don't we? Glen Dear Glen: My wife Kim and I are absolutely huge fans of yours! The past three years we have attended about a dozen Styx shows. You usually spotted us up front, thanks to my wife's funky hat and our overall enthusiasm, i.e. pointing at you, my wife screaming your name--just the standard stuff. Being a left-handed musician myself, I was always amazed at your ability to play the instrument as you do. Freaks me out. We thought Cyclorama was deserving of a Grammy--seriously. Your studio work (Kiss your ass goodbye, Number one, Love is a Ritual) and your live performances have made an indelible impact on us. Kim and Bob from Wisconsin wish you happiness in the future. We will be watching and listening. Thanks Bob and Kim. Leftys rule! Glen Dear Mr. Burtnik, Hi my name is Katelyn Hudson, I am currently a junior at Mount Mansfield Union High School in Jericho Vermont. For my Contemporary US. History Class I am writing an essay on the Moral Majority. Being a fan of Styx, the Moral Majority reminded me of "Majority for Music Morality" from Kilroy Was Here. I would like to make connections from the MMM to the Moral Majority in my essay. I was hoping that you could give me some information about the MMM, or be able to direct me to someone who could. Thank-you very much, Sorry Katelyn. Anything I could offer you would be pure opinion as I had nothing to do with the KILROY WAS HERE album. Good luck in school, Hi Glen, My name is Frank and I live in Piscataway, NJ. First I want to say Slaves of New Brunswick is one of my favorite CDs. I listen to it all the time. I can't wait for your new CD to be released. Anyway, I way wondering if you could provide any info on your X-mas shows, like will there be any special guests. Also will there ever be anymore Slaves shows? Thanks a bunch, Frank, It's cool to hear someone still listens to the Slaves album. I kinda like it myself. Thanks for the kind words. As for my Xmas Xtravaganza, as a rule I do not announce who'll be performing ahead of time. I hope it can just stand on it's own… Glen Hi Glen! Hope this finds you well. Like most folks here that write to you, I have been a fan for a long time. I had the pleasure to meet you a couple times and you always went out of your way to be nice. About ten years ago when I saw you play in support of "Palookaville" I forced a couple issues of a Glen Burtnik comic book on you (I figure mentioning that is the best shot I have at you actually remembering me out of the thousands of fans you have met.) This year I wrote a pretty long review of the Reading, Pennsylvania Styx concert and posted it on the Styxnet Board. You must have liked it because I received an email from Paul Holt letting me know that you printed it out to share with the rest of the Styx guys - that was really gratifying! Anyway, I wanted to tell you about an article that ran this Sunday in the Harrisburg Patriot News. Every summer they do a story on all the concerts held at Hershey, PA - sort of a run-down of all the memorable moments. The guy who wrote it sort of complains a little about classic rock bands, but in doing so, he pays you a compliment. Here's what he says: "Hordes of Jurassic rockers are still out there with a smattering of original members and the rest of the band filled out with young players who were toddlers during their heyday. Watching Styx's bass player, we couldn't help ask ourselves: What is an obviously twentysomething in a knit cap, CBGB T-shirt and funky plaid pants doing singing 'Too Much Time on My Hands?'" Don't you hate people who criticize things that they obviously don't know much about or care to know much about? Oh well - I just read your post on the main page and although I am sad to see you leave Styx (again!), no one in their right mind could fault your reasoning. Best of luck to you as you journey back to the solo-world; I'm REALLY looking forward to the new CD. Thanks for all the music, being so cool, and for taking the time to read this! Your fan, Brian Linnen That's a funny review! Ya know, it's cool. 20 years ago I might've been offended or something, aggaravated that my musical efforts weren't addressed or applauded by this reviewer. But by now, I'm completely flattered that someone considered me "obviously twenty something" even if he friggin' HATES me musically. Funny how one's priorities change. Creative ego seems to have given way to middle-aged vanity, I'm afraid. Perhaps someone should write the Harrisburg Patriot and let the reviewer know I'll be 50 in April 2005. Thanks for the chuckle, Brian! Glen Hello Glen, I have been a STYX fan since 8th grade (around Paradise Theatre). I remember the day I found out that out you had joined the band. I was upset at first because you were replacing Tommy, but after I got to know your music, I realized what an invaluable asset you were to STYX! I am so sad to hear of your departure from STYX, and will miss seeing your romp through the audience during KYAG (or LITR from early days). You are such an excellent musician and I am so proud of your accomplishments!! Good luck with you future!! I a so glad you have chosen to stay home with your family…I am sure that your girls are thrilled to have their daddy at home. Take care and don't ever stop rocken!!! You are loved and will be missed!!!! Wendy Walker Thanx, Wendy. I find it interesting how different my take on experiences with Styx fans were in 1990 versus 1999. In any case, I'm so glad to have found all these new 'friends.' Glen Glen Hi. I have a quick question for anyone in the know. I have Talking In Code on Vinyl! Trouble is, I can't carry my stereo around in my car. Besides the Vinyl would jump and skip over every pot hole in York County. LOL. Is there anyway (out side of ebay) that I can obtain this treasure at a reasonable price? (Less than $250 or $135....going prices on ebay. ) I would take a cd burn copy! I know what the cover looks like and the inner sleeve, etc. etc. I would be HAPPY to pay for shipping/handling, etc. Take care and thank you! MaryAnn York PA Yo MaryAnn, I'm glad you like that old 80's record so much! As I've said before, I keep threatening to re-release TALKING IN CODE in CD format… Glen Dear Glen, I was very sad to hear that you left Styx. You added so much energy to their shows. My husband and I think you are an amazing songwriter and performer. We had the pleasure of seeing the Main Event twice this summer - in Rochester, NY and Albany, NY. We live in Albany, but purchased tickets to the Rochester show before the Albany show was announced. Although Styx is our all time favorite band, we considered selling our tickets to the Rochester show since it's about 3 1/2 hours from Albany. Well, we ended up going to the Rochester show. We were wandering around Rochester looking for the Blue Cross Arena and stumbled onto the back door where the tour buses were parked. A couple was standing there waiting and we asked if they'd seen anyone get off the buses. The woman said they had just met Tommy, JY, Neal Schon, Steve A., etc... I asked her when, and she said "10 minutes ago." My husband and I were so disappointed - if only we'd gotten there 10 minutes earlier. We then proceeded inside to our seats which were another disappointment - kind of far back on the side. The night turned around when you sang KYAG. You began the song down on the floor in front of us and we were so excited. Then you jumped down and ran up the aisle and stopped right next to me for a few seconds and threw a guitar pic which I was able to grab. My head almost exploded!! Something as simple as getting your guitar pic totally made our 3 1/2 hour car trip worth it. I'm so glad we made the trip. They guitar pic is framed on our wall. By the way, both of shows we saw were awesome! Thank you so much for doing what you do!! Also, I love your sense of humor. Sincerely, Thanks, Robin! Glen I live in southeast Florida. I took my young daughter with me to see you guys a couple of years back. The crowd was so freaked that she knew every word to every song that they passed her up to the stage. She was floored by you and everything from then on was Glen Glen Glen. The next year I took her back to see Styx and not only did you take pics with her but signed a tee shirt for her. After the third time seeing you and her experiencing how wonderful you were with her again, she was on a mission to "marry Glen". :) Grant it, by then she must have been about 9 years old. Nicole would go online and check out websites and whatever she could to follow you. I want to thank you for being a wonderful roll model. Now Nicole is 14 years old and she still looks back on how sweet you were with her and believe me, there is a special place in her heart where you reside. She still tells all her friends about you and prizes that picture. Good luck with all and everything you do. Oh and do me a favor, being transplanted from Jersey to Florida is miserable, give Jersey my love! Michelle Miller All my best to you Michele, and Nicole. Thanks, Hello Glen! I just wanted to drop you a quick note post departure from Styx... Glen, your contributions to Styx have left an indelible mark. A great one... It is a sad day for most current Styx fans that you have left, but I'm certain that most fans understand the gruelling schedule of non-stop touring, and how that can affect personal relationships. Your musical contributions on the Cyclorama cd are (in my opinion) some of the best of the set, and will likely go on to remain some of my favorite tracks of all time. As a LONG time Styx fan, I had in the past been disappointed with some of Styx's later releases, but this one marked a return to what made Styx a great band. A great ROCK AND ROLL band. I'm very glad that you were a part of it. Thanks again for some great rock talent, and awesome live performances!!! I am looking forward to the release of your new solo cd, Welcome To Hollywood. I wish you great success in your future endeavors, and hope to see you play again live at some point in the future! Best wishes, You have some good insight there, Steve. Thanks and best to you as well, Glen Dear Glen, Just a little note to tell you how much "Kiss your ass goodbye" was my summer song. A friend of mine passed away last april, actually he commited suicide. Your song really helped to get the pain out. I listened to it over and over it was like a relief. I sang it out loud too and it was like talking to him, that friend who will never come back. A great song with a great feeling. All the best for you, Manuel Laroche Manuel, Wow. What a story! Thanks for letting me know. Very sorry about your buddy. Best of luck to you, Glen Glen, Congratulations on your decision. I'm sure it was a difficult one. I was wondering if you spent any time with Neal Schon on the Main Event tour, having worked with him on your solo CD. I was so hoping you'd collaborate with him (and possibly Journey), as I think you'd be an Amazing influence on his/their songwriting. I was also hoping to read that he Was putting down a solo or two on Welcome To Hollywood, though I'm a huge fan of Jimmy and was glad to read in a few of your newsletters that Jimmy is indeed on the new CD. I've been to all of your shows at The Stone Pony over the past few years and want to thank you for the wonderful music and performances you always present, despite your hectic schedule. All the best, Tom Tom, I did, in fact, spend a little time with Neal, though backstage for the most part. The guy is a great guitarist. As much as I've enjoyed collaborating with him in the past, he was busy with his family, and the perfect opportunity never seemed to pop up. We DID exchange numbers and suggested working on new things, so ya never know. Thanks for asking - and thanks for coming to my NJ shows! All the best, Glen Dear Glen, I hope you do a solo tour to promote the new album. I'd like to see you come to Los Angeles and play some of the venues we have such as the House of Blues and the Canyon Club. I love your voice, so it would be great to hear you do a whole set. Hope to see you in Los Angeles soon. At this point, is a solo tour a possibility? Regards, Richard, It's nice to hear you like my singing. I suppose a solo tour is a possibility. But, I mind you, I honestly don't think I'd have all that much pull in terms of ticket sales. We'll see - I'd really dig playing LA as a solo again. Glen Glen, I have come to know you and your music because I am a long-time Styx fan, and I just want you to know that I applaud your reasons for needing to leave Styx. It broke my heart when I read about you being away from your family so much over the last five years. I suppose I am ignorant of these things, but I assumed that you had your family on the road with you. Good for you for putting them first; I think that that is how it should be. I have come to respect and admire you as a musician, and now as a person. What you have done shows integrity, and although I am going to miss you GREATLY in Styx (you added SO much character to the band) you've done the right thing in my book. I will be following your solo career closely; you've made a fan for life out of me. Good luck and God bless!!! Maria Maine A very nice note! Thanks, Maria. Glen Hey Glen, Just a real quick question....well 3? Is there any possible way any of your solo Albums/CD's will be picked up nationwide...want some of your music here in houston (loved your live rendition of Love is the Ritual here in Houston back in 2001) and how is your relationship with the guys in Styx since you left? and lastly, you can shoot me for this stupid question, but have you communicated with Dennis since his departure from Styx? Please don't be ugly, I'm just a Glen/Styx fan who wants to know! All In a Day's Work, Charlie Untz III, Charlie, At the moment, it seems there is more interest in Europe than in the US for my music. However, I'm looking into a few things and there should be some sort of way to purchase my CDs domestically (the States) soon. My relationship with Styx is fine but the last time I spoke with Dennis was at the Children's Miracle Network performance in Spring of 1999. But I must say, it saddens me to read your concern that I might "be ugly" while answering a question. I guess by some of my past public statements you might've gotten the impression I was kind of a "pissed-off" guy, ready to bark. Well, that's what I get, I suppose. I apologize if I've seemed like a jackass that way. Thanks very much for the interest, Glen Glen: Over the past four years, I've had the pleasure of working with Styx as a local production assistant in Columbus, Ohio. I must say that out of all of the artists that I have worked with to this date, you and Styx boys were the best! Although most of my involvement in the show was working with Keith, there were plenty of times that I was able to come out and check out the show. Glen, I was amazed at the amount of energy and creativity you brought to Styx over the past few years. You were definitely an asset to this great band and you will truly be missed as a part of the Styx phenomenon. I am however more excited to hear your new solo album! I admire you for putting your family first and wish only the best for you! You are truly a talented individual! Good luck in future endeavors and I hope we cross path again! Jay Jay, thanks very much! I've completely admired the professionalism of the local production staffs throughout my tenure with Styx in the past 4 and a half years. And though I wish I could say I remember you, I can't, but I sure loved Columbus. I think it's a real pretty city. Thanks for the compliments. And take care of yourself, Dear Glen, If you played solo shows in Los Angeles at places like the House of Blues and the Canyon Club you would definitely get a decent crowd. You might not sell-out but you could certainly draw 400 or 500 people or so at each venue. People in L.A. are just looking for any excuse to go to these venues. If a musician is even remotely known, they draw some people. Any musician who played in a major band would draw well. All you would have to do is advertise "Glen Burtnik formerly of Styx". Plenty of people would show up. If you play in Los Angeles, I will certainly be there. I think you are great. You are both a great singer and songwriter. Regards, Richard (Los Angeles, CA) Richard, Thanks for the thoughts! I appreciate it, Hello Glen, My name is Robert Hunter from South Bend Indiana. I saw you with Styx in Ft. Wayne and also at the Morris Performing arts Center in South Bend. Actually I got to meet you after the show, and my wife was the little Korean Lady working at the from Desk of the Marriot. I was so sad to see that you have left STYX. I will continue to support their music, but I do feel that you were the biggest asset to the band. Your live stage presence is awesome. I think the song Kiss YOuR ASS GOODBYE is one of the best songs I have ever heard. Whatever you decide to do musically I will also follow. Actually I am a musician. I currently play for a really great Christian Rock band. If you ever need a drummer I would love to try out. If not I understand. I am sure that you know tons of great drummers. I just think that you would be awesome to play with. I hope that all goes well for you. I also hope that someday our paths will cross again and maybe we can play together. Sincerely, Robert Hunter Hello Robert, Thanks for the encouraging words. Don't be sad, everything happens for a reason, and I'm very happy nowadays! I'd think there'd be problems in having a drummer who lives in Indiana, but thanks for the offer! Best of luck to you, your wife,
and your band, Hi Glen, We just heard the news you will be leaving Styx to spend more time with your family. You are a wonderful musician and very entertaining, especially when you perform "Kiss Your Ass Goodbye!" You will be sadly missed. Best of Luck, Thanks much Jack & Yvonne! Glen Glen- Just read the news. As most people would agree, I believe breaks are good. It seems like you are taking this break for all the right reasons. It's admirable that you recognize the importance of your family, and though time has a tendency to creep by all of us, it's important to stop and get ourselves grounded and enjoy the best of what life has to offer. As in your case, it would be your loving wife and children. Your efforts, energy and talent has been a direct contribution to the success of this legendary band, STYX, and I thank you for bringing this music alive on stage today. I would say that the band has their work cut out for them to find a temporary replacement and I hope they find someone with the same energy. Take all the time you need and be sure to build more wonderful memories with those close to you. I am still interested in purchasing tickets for the Xmas show. I understand it is a wonderful event for a great cause. As most of those that admire your work, I will wait patiently for the release of "Welcome to Hollywood" solo album. Best wishes to you and your family, Stacy, Thanks for the very nice, encouraging letter. Glen Glen, I just wanted to let you know just how much all Styx fans are going to miss you. I was lucky enough to see the band twice this summer. You helped give the band an energy that I cannot remember them having before. I am glad that both of my sons were able to see the band with you as a member. As a father, I applaud you for your decision. Good luck with the solo project and stop by Dallas when you tour. Thanks, Thank YOU Macc. Here's to your own happiness as a father and a man. Glen Glen Burtnik is leaving...yes indeed, it is a sad day for Styx. What can I say. I saw the Styx show most recently when you guys played Pechanga in Temecula, California and wow! You were one of the biggest high points - I managed to get down to where you were playing during "Kiss Your Ass Goodbye" and was simply in awe. Love the song - takes a lot of my friends off guard when I play it for them. "Hey, listen to this." "Cool, who is this?" "It's Styx, man!" ...most of them are too caught up in the music that's popular now to know what they're missing - but not I. As a seventeen year old with a Styx fan for a mother, Styx has been about the only thing I've listened to for most of my life. And just recently did I _really_ begin to get into the kind of present-day rockin' you brought to the band. And now I read you're leaving...ouch. I just wanted to write to say that you'll be missed a lot. Good luck with your future plans and I'll be watching for your solo stuff. ~Derek Thanks very much, Derek! Glen Heya Glen.... Dagnabbit I'll miss the he** out of you in Styx....I don't think there's anyone on the planet who can keep up with your antics on stage. You've been a dynamic addition to the band, and for that I want to thank you for the years of enjoyment. I for one, totally understand your need to get back to your family. Rosie, Sally, Darla and Beau deserve it, that's for sure. I wish you the *best* that life has to offer and I'll love ya and support you however I can in whatever you do. You absolutely RAWK!!! :-) Love ya tons.... -Lisa Thanks Lisa, Glen Glen, Although I'm happy to know what I've suspected since Kenosha in August...That you're a family man and that family comes first....you'll be missed by all your Styx fans including our family. We were at the Kenosha Wi concert and we'll always remember how hard you tried to get my 7 year old daughter Katie (who was stratgically placed on her very tall dad's shoulders) one of your pics. Each one flying by him as he desparately tried to get her a souviner. Finally and with your help, he was able to get one. But your persistance... and understanding of his plight and the huge smile you showed at his success gave me the hint that you too must have a few girls of your own back home! THANK YOU! I'm sure your family is proud of you for all of your past accomplishments and even prouder that you've given them the priority. As well, you've given a whole new generation of rockers some great music. I've treasured the bonding that I've had with my 13 year old daughter Danyele at three of your shows and appreciate the effort by all of the Styx band. Best of luck in your future endevours...we look forward to hearing more of your work and God Bless you and your family!!! From our family to yours...THANK YOU! Ruth and Danyele, Katie and Mat Wondolkowski All my best to you and yours, Ruth! Glen Hi Glen, I'm so sorry to see you leaving Styx! I have really enjoyed watching you on stage. I do understand your reasons for leaving, as I have a 13 year old son myself. Family is the most important thing. I got to meet you at the CD signing in Chicago and then again after the show in South Bend. Thank you for taking the time to sign my ticket stub and chat with me after the show. I will never forget it. I wish you all the best and look forward to hearing the new CD when it comes out. I will have to make it out to Jersey to see you perform solo. Good Luck and Take Care!! Lora You're very welcome, Lora. Glen I totally respect and admire your decision to step away from the constant touring and being away from your family. The fact that you've realized this and have done something about it only makes me respect and admire you more. I cannot say that I am not deeply saddened by this-tearing up as I was reading it-but somehow I knew it was coming, based on the tones of some of your letters to your fans. Glen-you will ALWAYS be a part of STYX in my mind, as I've got the photos to prove it! I had the extreme pleasure of meeting you backstage in Columbus, OH in 2001, and you were SO cool and kind to take a picture with me. Best wishes to you and your family! I'm sure your wife knows that she has one hell of a guy and your kids know that they have a wonderful father. Sincerely, Thank you, Bran. The thing is, I realized I was the only one in the band who didn't feel comfortable about constantly being away from home. After four and a half years, you get to know the players, the priorities and the outcome of the efforts. Between that and my own personal dramas, it was obviously time to walk. Thanks for the kind words, Glen Dear Glen: I am sorry to hear that you're leaving Styx, I was really looking forward to see you with the band in Mt. Pleasant next month. Family does come first so I know that this is definitely the right thing for you to do. I wish you and your family luck and I hope that you all get your much needed balance. I would just like to say that it was a privilege to us fans to be able to have you as such a major part in one of the greatest bands. No matter what band you are or aren't in, I will still support you because you're just awesome! I plan on going to many solo shows! Thanks for the good times. Jamie from Toledo You're welcome, Jamie. Thanks for writing. Glen Dear Glen, First of all, I was very sad to read this morning that you had left STYX. I always go to styxworld to see what you guys are up to, and my computer class heard a big gasp from me when I saw the news today. I must say you, and your STYX brothers, have inspired me. My band rocked the house down with 'Suite Madame Blue' for our high school variety show, and we are going to continue the STYX tradition again this year, possibley playing 'One With Everything.' I saw you guys when you came to Indy with Journey and REO this summer. I was sitting about 5 rows from the corner of the stage, with you and Gowan in perfect view. I'm sure you don't remember, but I waved at you and I almost died when you returned the gesture. I even skipped marching band practice the following Monday just to hear you guys on Bob & Tom. It was definitely worth it! I just wanted to thank you for everything you have unknowingly done for me. Keep rockin' man! Glad to hear I've played some part in inspiring you. You're very welcome and good luck with your band. Glen Glen, Wow! Passive-Aggressive? Nice shot on that one. I imagine that it must be tough being in the position you were in with Styx. The "feud" happened before you joined, and really does not concern you, yet you get asked about it all the time. I, for one, appreciate the fact that you took the high road in this situation. I caught the Styx show 7 or 8 times over the time you were in the band, and loved every show. I will miss hearing your songs in future shows. So.... Any chance you will come back to the band in say, 10 years, and play drums? or Keys?? Good luck in your future work, and do enjoy your time with the family. You all deserve it. Thanks. Ian Markley Ian, You let the secret out! I've taken this time off to learn to play better drums so I can someday replace Todd. Glen So sad that you're leaving Styx. Styx is awesome and so are you. My husband and I have become groupies over the past year. We've been to four concerts, all of them over 5 hours from home. Anyway, just wanted to say you will be MISSED. We will continue to support Styx and you in whatever you endeavor to do. Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful talent with us and (don't tell my husband) but, you have the most beautiful smile. Thanks for bringing sunshine to the world. Janet Thanks Janet. Hats off to you and the Hubster. Glen Glen, I am sorry to see you leave Styx but do respect your reasons for doing so. Because of you joining Styx in 1990 I was introduced to you and your Solo work. I have had the pleasure of seeing you play live with Styx in 1990, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and you have always put on an excellent show. I would love to see you play a live solo gig sometime in the Buffalo, NY area. Also it was nice to hear that you got to spend some time visiting and Video recording some stuff when you came through Buffalo this summer. Please keep your music coming and best wishes to you and your family in the future. Gary, Thanks Gary, Glen Dear Glen, I'm really going to miss seeing you with Styx. I've been a dedicated loyal fan from birth.(and I ain't kidding heheh) I've been struggling the last few years getting used to the new line up. I'm really partial to the classic Styx but have always tried to support the band and scrounge up the money to see every Styx show that comes to Salt Lake City. When I first read that Dennis and Chuck would no longer be with the band I was bummed then when I found out you'd be rejoining I was grateful because you'd been with the band before. Now that your leaving it's like Styx is dwindling away more and more as time goes on. I don't see Styx being around for much longer. However... I'm very glad to know that you know what's most important in life. Styx won't be around forever but families are. If staying in Styx means not having your family then I'm glad you chose to leave Styx because family should ALWAYS be #1. I've been married for 2 1/2 years and have a 2 year old son and I'm eight months pregnant with our second. I don't know what I'd do without them. Styx is like my second family. My parents were in high school when they were married and I followed shortly there after. My parent attended the Paradise Theatre and kilroy concerts but I was too young to go. (I was born in 1980) I recently saw Styx at the Utah State Fair and took my mother and my son with. We had a great time. : ) I'm sorry to say that that was the last time I will see you with Styx. Take care Glen!!! Get back to your family, I'm sure they miss you. Lots of Love, Jamie, People don't like change. It's how we're built. But the only thing that doesn't change is change itself. Time to move on, cherishing what you've loved in the past and looking forward to the future, Glen My wife and I were crushed to hear you left our fave band. I have three of your solo albums and of course the Bill & Ted soundtrack, I loved your version of "I want you to want me" on the Stiff Competition (Cheap Trick Tribute) Album. You are easily one of my fave performers. My first conert was 1991 with Edge of the Century, I've seen you with Styx twice more and am now going to be forever Kicking myself for missing the show at the Gorge in Washington this year. Best of luck to you on your new album (at least one guarrantied sale here) and my best to your family. I hope they appreciate how much we fans will suffer for their happiness :) Thanks for being Chad Wow, Chad. You reach deep into the Burtnik Rarities Bin! Thanks for the interest and support through the years. Glen Glen, I am sorry to hear that your are leaving Styx! I can understand the need to be at home though, as my husband is a truck driver and if often away from our children. Thanks for the great contributions you made to Styx both on the albums and live! Can't wait for your next album to come out. Helga, Hi Helga. Well, having a truck driving husband, I'm sure you know a lot about the complications of raising a family and running a home while the man is away. Not that it's impossible, it just ain't easy. All my best to you and
yours, Dear Glen - We were so disappointed to hear that you are leaving Styx, but understand your decision to be with your family. It was actually a comment that we made at the last show as we looked at all of the photos that the roadies had of their families and we talked on the way home about how hard it must be for all of you. I cut back last year to stay home with my son (age 4) - it's a decision you will never regret - they grow up so quickly and you'll have more time than you know what to do with in a few years!! I just wanted to thank you for the past four years of touring - I think in the past four years my girlfriend, husband (Styx fan by marriage) and myself have seen an average of 4 shows a year and we have continually been impressed with your input into the show. I had just a couple of Glen memories that I wanted to share.....My girlfriend and I like to take credit for starting a hand wave during the na na na na's on Love is a Ritual at the Honda Family Picnic show last summer- we were doing it - you and Tommy joined in and soon the better part of the rocking fans were doing it too! My husband was impressed with your performance at the Popcorn Festival in 2000 - we liked your comment about folks rocking under the traffic lights and on the church steps. Most recently, I enjoyed the opportunity of having you stand next to me and sing KYAG at the Main Event in Columbus this past year. We weren't sure if the look on your face as we sang with you was confusion that we knew the lyrics or enjoyment! And also at Wright State earlier in September - we sweet talked an usher into better seats and ended up on far stage right at the side. You kept coming over to sing and dance for all of us - you even tried to send a pick up into the seats - which we either figured was for us or the two scantily clad women near us. After the show we conned my husband to reach under the railing into the stadium seat below where the pick had landed. Course I had to come home and clean the house from top to bottom in order to receive the pick - but a task well worth it - and now a treasured memento of Glen's last show with Styx for us. Thank you!! I am so glad that we had you with our favorite band even if it was a short time. I look forward to your future endeavors. I'm a born and trained stage manager - so next time you're ready to create a show - give me a call - haha! Best of luck to ya, Glen! You're a lucky man to have so many loyal fans and a terrific family that has shared you with us for so long! Thanks. Alycia Thanks much, Alycia. Glen Hey Glen. It saddens me to know you will no longer be with Styx. The concerts will just not be the same without you...... On the other hand, I think its great what you're doing.You are so much cooler than I ever anticipated and I have a new found respect for you. Hey, now you can work on your political campaign ! Just joking! - Melissa Thanks, Melissa! As the Temptations once said, "Vote for me and I'll set you free!", Glen Dear Glen, I just wanted to write you this e-mail to let you know I'm sorry to hear that you left Styx...all the best to you in what you do! God Bless You, Thanks, Charlie! Don't be sorry, all is way cool here, Glen Glen, Just wanted to say "farewell" to you with Styx. I enjoyed every show that I attended the past few years in Mississippi and Oklahoma. Thanks for taking the time to autograph a photo for me at Tunica a couple years ago and speaking with me and my friends. You are a kind person. You added such energy to the show. But I am a true supporter of doing what is best for the family as a whole, they will always be there for you when NO one else will be. You are making a change, I honestly believe "change" is always a good thing. Keeps this fresh and new, new beginnings. Best of luck with your continued music career, your career as a father and a husband. Thanks for the memories ! God Bless . Debbie Simmons Many thanks to you too, Debbie! Glen I am very sad to read your announcement today, I have really enjoyed going to the Styx shows over the past couple of years and making a fan out of my wife. I had the pleasure of meeting you a couple of times, you seem like a real stand up guy. I wish you the very best of luck in your new venture. I have tickets for the show in Mt. Pleasant, MICH. I'll still go, but it wont be the same. Hope to see you back on the road again someday. John Wright Thanks John. I'm still standing, Glen Dear Glen, Recently found out you left the band Styx for personal reasons. I wanted to let you know that I have enjoyed your sparkling performance. Hope you find your peace, Maria Thank you, Maria. Glen Dear Glen, Such a sad day for me. I learned of your departure from Styx today and I must say that I was in shock. I woke up this morning, not having learned of the bad news, put on my Styx t-shirt which I don't wear everyday and walked into the living room only to find my daughter's friend, (who is 11), sitting listening to "Edge or the Century" on her cd player. Then I proceed to make breakfast while my daughter Chelsea is sitting with her friends watching the Arch Allies DVD. You must know how much your music has, and will be heard and appreciated. There is no age limit, as I'm sure you know, when it comes to Styx music. I have seen Styx in concert 7 times in the past 2 or 3 years and many times in the early 70's in Chicago. From the first concert in Tucson where you took my hand and gave me your guitar pic... to the last time just a couple of months ago in Phoenix,( The Maim Event), you have always been a very special member of the band. The audience loves you and will miss you dearly. Styx for me will always be a great band but will be missing something very unique. I wish you much happiness with your career and especially your family, who I'm sure you have greatly missed these past few years. I thank them for their personal sacrifice and enabling all Styx fans to watch such talent on the stage. I, and many more fans will eagerly follow your career. Lynda Thanks, Lynda. All my best to Chelsea. Glen click HERE for more Dear Glens! more to come.... all content ©2002/03 war bride music |