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Gunner McGrath



Last Updated: 11/17/2009

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Gender: Male
Status: Married
Age: 31
Sign: Libra

City: Hoffman Estates
State: Illinois
Country: US
Signup Date: 8/19/2005
Saturday, April 14, 2007 

Current mood:  relaxed
Over the past couple months I've been wrestling with the most difficult decision I've ever had to make: after 8 years I have to leave Much The Same. I could write pages describing, in detail, all the problems I have with the music industry, the punk scene, the touring lifestyle, etc., but in the end the truth is that my priorities and dreams have changed. I could never leave a band that's produced music I love this much, toured the world, and made so many great fans (including some of my idols), if I still had any desire to be a career musician.

The thing that attracted me to punk rock in the first place was the idea that I could live my life on my own terms, doing what makes me happy no matter what other people thought I should do. For many years, that meant being in a band and living the life I always dreamed about. Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to pursue success in this industry without compromising your values, your interests, your music, and your personality. For years, everything I've done and said has been calculated based on what effect it would have on our band, and that is a tough way to live when your natural inclination is to tell people what you really think and play music you love while answering to no one. Essentially, being in a punk band has stripped me of the freedom I originally found in punk rock to begin with. Even in leaving this band, I've struggled with the disappointment many of our fans will have with my decision, but I can't live to please others anymore. "Living a Lie" was not written as a personal introspection, but I see now how accurately it applies to my own life.

The good news is that I am now engaged to the most perfect girl for me that I could have ever imagined! It would be irresponsible of me to try and be a husband while barely breaking even on tour, spending more time in a van than at home with my wife, and I would never want to do that to her or myself. I have been pursuing a career in computer software for almost as long as I've been playing music, and it will be a great and fun way to support my family in the future.

I'm happy to say that Franky, Dan, and Jevin will continue on as Much The Same once they've chosen a new singer. To anyone who is afraid of the change that will come, be confident knowing that they are responsible for 75% of the music on Survive, and the significant leap in quality between albums was primarily due to their creativity. I have heard a lot of the music they're beginning to work on for the next album and it's all great! Please continue to give them the same respect and support you've given us up to this point, they deserve it.

Speaking of new music, I will absolutely still be making music in one form or another. I love music too much to stop, and one of the benefits of starting over is that I can make music in whatever way I want, with none of the restrictions that come from being in a band. Some of what I will write will still be fast punk, it's what I know and what I love; some will be entirely opposite and I look forward to exploring a new world of music I've never tried before, and hopefully getting back into the piano as well as guitar. Nothing is set in stone yet but I've been talking to some friends about different ideas and I'm sure you'll be hearing more music from me in the coming months; subscribe to this blog if you're interested in hearing what I come up with.

Thanks so much to each of you who have come to appreciate the music and the hard work I put into this band and scene over the past few years. It's been part of my entire adult life up until now and I'll always cherish the memories and the impact that I've somehow managed to have on some of your lives. I've accomplished everything I ever wanted to do with this band, and much more, because of you. Don't be strangers!
Currently playing:
Viva Pinata
Release date: 11 November, 2006
10:12 PM
 
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Sarah Sage

 
WHAT.
 
Posted by Sarah Sage on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:18 PM
[Reply to this] 
Throb (A.T.G.)
Rob Nowak

 
pussy.  quit the best band of the 2000's. 
 
Posted by Throb (A.T.G.) on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:19 PM
[Reply to this] 
Britt
Brittney Ketcham

 
that's a little harsh don't you think.
it's not like he's leaving on bad terms or anything
 
Posted by Britt on Sunday, June 08, 2008 - 5:11 PM
[Reply to this] 
Kiran

 

Wow man,

I don't know what to say. If it's the right decision for you, then good for you. Hopefully you'll be happy with whatever you're doing. Don't be a stranger though. Let me know what's going on inn your life both musically and non-musically


 
Posted by Kiran on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:25 PM
[Reply to this] 


 

Wow, Gunner I have to say this is a complete and total shock. However your points are completely on track and totally right. You have to remain true to who you are inside no matter what, isn't that more punk anyway? I can honestly say that you are one of those individuals who will be definitely missed in the scene, you are a great guy as well as a great musician. Easy to get along with and easy to do business with.

Good luck and God bless you and whatever your future holds. Congratulations on the engagement, she's a lucky girl.


 
Posted by on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:27 PM
[Reply to this] 
Martha Starkin

 
oh no...
i respect your decision...
but it makes me sad. your voice is great and although MTS is still THERE with the other guys, it will be totally different without you.
i wish you all the best for your future life.
 
Posted by Martha Starkin on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:27 PM
[Reply to this] 
Mackshmalionaise
Nicholas Sima

 
Well let the little immature guys say what they want... But I know where your coming from and I believe you made the best decision for yourself.... and for your family... which is what should matter the most.... So good luck in your future... I can't wait to hear some of the stuff you come up with... as well as Much The Sames future.
 
Posted by Mackshmalionaise on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:31 PM
[Reply to this] 
CHANG®- .Skinhead.

 

Chang the next singer? haha maybe not...you're definatly gonna be missed man, I loved your soft voice haha...

Take care....

-Chang


 
Posted by CHANG®- .Skinhead. on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:40 PM
[Reply to this] 
►RYAN♥♥♥RIZO◄
Ryan Rizo

 
wow...is all i can say...but after reading your blog i understand not everything can last, im glad you are happy with your decision that is the most important part! i hope the best for you and cant wait to hear what you will write later on down the road!       ryan
    ps....we gotta play some xboxlive   im SCRIZO

 
Posted by ►RYAN♥♥♥RIZO◄ on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:41 PM
[Reply to this] 
MC Rayzin (Post-Scene Trip-Core)

 

Man Gunner...that sucks, but at the same time, I'm extremely happy for you. As for that sorry waste of his father's cum who called you a pussy quitting, don't pay him any mind. He obviously isn't a true supporter. Anyways, I wish you the best of luck in everything.

 

            -Johnny Fucking Riot!


 
Posted by MC Rayzin (Post-Scene Trip-Core) on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:48 PM
[Reply to this] 
Mrs. Peralta
Francine Peralta

 

I've met you, liked you, and loved your music. I can tell it wasnt an easy choice. What I'm most happy about is the fact that you're still going to continue music. Music will always be there and the love you have for it wont ever die. So the best of luck to you in starting your new life, and congrats on the engagment.

 

-Francine


 
Posted by Mrs. Peralta on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:54 PM
[Reply to this] 
Liom is a happy vegetarian
Liom O'Brian

 
Hey man, I saw you in France, at the double six in Lyon. I'm happy to have seen the band before you left, but I think I can understand your choice. It's a lot of pressure, to think that all your says and acts are watch and judge. And I respect your love for your future wife ;) So I just wanted to say, thank you so mch for all that great music, take care, and live the life you want. Who the fuck are we (fans) to choose your way of life ?

I hope to see you (maybe in another band)
Kisses from france

Guillôm

 
Posted by Liom is a happy vegetarian on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 10:59 PM
[Reply to this] 
Na♠ə §♪l√a

 

I felt the same way about my career in music when I was getting married and found out I had a little one on the way. It's definitely more than worth it! Mass respect, bro.

Good luck with everything! Keep it real.


 
Posted by Na♠ə §♪l√a on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 11:11 PM
[Reply to this] 


 

ok, well my jaw is on the floor haha.

first of all, congratulations on getting engaged!!i'm so happy for you two!

secondly, MTS won't be the same without you. i wish you the best of luck with whatever you do with music-- the chicago scene needs more people like you. 

Take care and i'll see you around!

<3


 
Posted by on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 11:16 PM
[Reply to this] 
Erica

 
I agree with Rob! Quit one of the best bands of the 2000s. This sucks, but I respect the decision. Congratulations on the engagement!

 
Posted by Erica on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 11:49 PM
[Reply to this] 
Willem
Willem J

 
Dude! I understand what you're saying and I wish you all the best. It was a pleasure to have seen you play IN Much The Same!

Good luck with everything, man!!

Willem.

 
Posted by Willem on Saturday, April 14, 2007 - 11:50 PM
[Reply to this] 
¡XKENNEY WILL MAKE YOU FUCKING DANCEX!
Kenney Cruz

 
Wow... No wonder you didn't respond to that last text!

This totally sucks to hear, dude, it really does. You know what your guy's music has done for me (namely your lyrics on "What I Know") but this is a graceful and honest reason to leave. Way to go out with dignity, dude. Seriously.

Cheers,
xkenneyx

 
Posted by ¡XKENNEY WILL MAKE YOU FUCKING DANCEX! on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:03 AM
[Reply to this] 
IM LOST, IM CRAZY

 
Hey Man,
Im sad to not be able to hear you sing anymore, live that it is, but either way, you have made the decission that was best in your life, and thats all that matters. But i wish you the best of luck and hope you the best in your marrage and life. Much The Same is truly one of the best punk bands to ever play, and a large part of that was because of you. I hope you stop by knights every once and a while and sing a song or two.
Much Love
Joe
 
Posted by IM LOST, IM CRAZY on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:12 AM
[Reply to this] 
Jason

 
Best of luck bro!  And congrats on the engagement
1

 
Posted by Jason on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:18 AM
[Reply to this] 
Justin

 

I really respect your decision but much the same won't be nearly as good...

My favorite song by much the same was for those left behind. I hope that your new music will be close to that style...

I wish you luck for whatever you do later on in your life...


 
Posted by Justin on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:23 AM
[Reply to this] 
Justin

 

I really respect your decision, but much the same will never be the same...

I hope you create more songs like "for those left behind" but if not, I'll still listen to it...

I wish you luck in whatever you do later on...


 
Posted by Justin on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:25 AM
[Reply to this] 
crazy equals cute

 
:-(
 
Posted by crazy equals cute on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 12:39 AM
[Reply to this] 
WRN Entertainment
William Neville

 
Shit, sorry to hear that, I was looking forward to seeing you up here in canada. You guys were the reason I got back into the music scene.
 
Posted by WRN Entertainment on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 1:24 AM
[Reply to this] 
»Simøna«

 
I'll definately miss you in the band but you got to do what you've got to do.
Best of luck to you.
 
Congrats on the engagement! She must be one lucky girl!
Set any plans for the wedding yet?

 
Posted by »Simøna« on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 1:24 AM
[Reply to this] 
Chriso

 
Shattered. But I will still be a much the same fan...and a gunnar fan.
 
Posted by Chriso on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 1:33 AM
[Reply to this] 


 

i am in FULL support of your decisions... cause i too have experienced that kind of feeling but probly not to your level but i am FULLY behind you man! and I can relate to "The good news is that I am now engaged to the most perfect girl for me that I could have ever imagined!"

im very happy for you and that you've made the decision that would most benefit your life outcome (that you believe is best) and whatever you believe is best i am with you on that one! don't let anyone's rude/immature/mean/arrogant comments get at you... it's your life and your decisions don't let anything hold you down! keep going!


 
Posted by on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 2:28 AM
[Reply to this] 
wet socks in dry shoes

 
damn man, you'll def be missed. hopefully the band will be as good as when you were there, but it's true, it won't really be "much the same," it's like taking Egon out of the Ghostbusters (not comparing personalities, just roles).
 
Posted by wet socks in dry shoes on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 2:59 AM
[Reply to this] 
|dolly|

 

So this sucks a little bit. But to be honest, ever since Mook left, has it really been the true Much the Same? I remember seeing and meeting you guys for the first time in 2003. A small bar in Toledo, called the Longhorn. You put on one of the best live shows I've seen, and the memory is definitely up there in my top 5. I hope you at least continue to make music in some form, and I'm happy that you chose the decision you believe is right for you.  Thanks for 8 great years of awesome music.

 

-Cherish-


 
Posted by |dolly| on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 3:25 AM
[Reply to this] 
Scott
Scott Windsor

 
I thought I was having a good day until I read this..... I'm so bummed now.  I'll still listen to the band, but Much the Same won't be much the same with out you.   But you've gotta do what you've gotta do.  THIS SUCKS...... but good luck
 
Posted by Scott on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 3:38 AM
[Reply to this] 
Kimmie
Kimmie Yarger

 
As it has always been said n then yet proven, that a true musican at heart will do just that, they will always follow their heart. Not knowing how others will take it, takin the news in a respectable way, or in the hating manner, that is just something you will have to expect when tellin your buddies. I respect your decision, and yes you are right, that you cant spend that much time away from the woman you love, for your passion of music.In the early stages of marriage is when marriage is at its toughest points. I wish you the best in the future, and who knows you may end up rejoining the band in a few years . Best of Luck on your future.
 
Posted by Kimmie on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 4:45 AM
[Reply to this] 
Fabian
Fabian Keist

 

"A man has to do. what a man has to do"

go ahead on your way,that's the only thing that counts. In one of our songs we sing:

"... if everything is breakin' through,you must hold on to what is true to you. you must be honest with your soul and follow your heart to reach your goal!"

I guess that totally fits with you huh?

so...DO YOUR THING!!!

hope to hear something from you in the future.

best regards,  Fabian of  *Empty Fridge*


 
Posted by Fabian on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 5:09 AM
[Reply to this] 
C Monkey

 

Wow, that f'ing sucks but I'm going through the exact same transition in a different career ( i've also played in a few bands too). I am a chef that is leaving the best restaurant in florida for a mom and pop place that pays me $200 more a week for less stress, less hours and responsibilities and the food is non-progressive/less stimulating but i'm able to support  myself and have a better quality of life overall. I only talked to you for a few minutes when you here in st pete, fl but you were in a rush to get to west palm and you were a super humble guy. Survive was the greatest release of last year... actually nitro had pretty much a monopoly of fire last year. Hopfully next year the swellers will get on board too. Well,Congratulations You've made an admirable decision and I wish you the best of luck!! Something you should check out though, if danny (from Croooked Edge) has'nt already sent you the link. It's a premastered and unproduced rough copy but they just added preliminary vocals and I thinkits incredible!!! check it: www.myspace.com/heroofourtimemusic


 
Posted by C Monkey on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 5:34 AM
[Reply to this] 
Antonio

 
for as much as I might understand, this is madness =[
 
Posted by Antonio on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 7:18 AM
[Reply to this] 
Johnny Kraps
Johnny Kraps

 
Some of the best times I've had were watching you guys play at the Rev. in Evansville.  This really sucks, 'cause you guys were one of the few shows I could actually feel like I used to at punk shows where I could move, act, and do what I wanted :).  Thanks for being an oasis in a boring scene.....
 
Posted by Johnny Kraps on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 7:49 AM
[Reply to this] 
Bryce
Bryce P.

 
yo
congrats on the engagement and taking new directions in your life.

i have been to as many of your shows as i could, and i have primarily seen you in evansville, in.  i'm sorry i didnt really get more chances to chat it up with you, but i freaking loved seeing you guys.

anyway, i'm let down, but man you have to do whats right for you, you can't make music just for other people. I totally know what you're saying about how the punk scene is, in many respects, pushing a certain set of standards on you and i have often butted heads with that.

anyway man, good luck and i look forward to what you're doing, but don't take ti personally if i say your none punk stuff sucks:)

 
Posted by Bryce on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 7:50 AM
[Reply to this] 
Annie.Habit
Annie Logan

 

Love=prettty freaking amazing and anyone that says shit otherwise to you is a pudwhacker.Congrats on the engagement!It is just a loss for me cause all my Chicago bands are altering in some form or another.

*Annie Habit*


 
Posted by Annie.Habit on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 7:52 AM
[Reply to this] 
Petter
Petter Nitter

 
bollocks like. much the same were neet and yer vocal work was one of the things that made you stand out. shit news this.

best of luck, though.

much love,
petter.

 
Posted by Petter on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 8:41 AM
[Reply to this] 
Captain Tony C.
Anthony Cannistraci

 
major bummer bro i was hopeing to see ya at another altoona show here soon but i understand were ur coming from and u got my support man. i wish the best for you and your family to come in the future and if ur ever in central Pennsylvania stop by and hit up a Signal lsot show and we'll chill.
good luck bro,
tony

 
Posted by Captain Tony C. on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 9:25 AM
[Reply to this] 
Marshall

 
That's really sad, 'cause your vpice really fits excellent to MTS!
But on the other side I really understand your decision and wish you the best of luck on your way!!!

Cheerio Marshall/N19R

 
Posted by Marshall on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 9:55 AM
[Reply to this] 
rob dobi
rob dobi

 
congrats man! engagement > punk
 
Posted by rob dobi on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 1:44 PM
[Reply to this] 
Strictly (Rude) Ryan
Ryan Riddell

 

Pursue love, that is so punk rock (in my opinion)!

Good luck with marriage dude! And I hope you make some kickass music on your own too!


 
Posted by Strictly (Rude) Ryan on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 3:59 PM
[Reply to this] 
John Paul

 
Wish you the best dude. Good Luck. Leaving a Band is never an easy decision, especially when your band is "that" good.
 
Posted by John Paul on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 5:01 PM
[Reply to this] 
✖ ycf ✖

 
we'll miss you

 
Posted by ✖ ycf ✖ on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 5:05 PM
[Reply to this] 
The Blam State Zs

 

hey gunner its murph. you remember me? from cincinnati? im in me versus us. thats a good decision for you i think. you have priorities just like everyone else and things change and you want other stuff more than you used to. its awesome that you found someone for you, i think i have too. im only 16 i know but i think i understand the stuff youre going through. for everyone else reading this, we should all be proud of gunner, not mourning over his resignation. hes able to be in an awesome band and create a family all in one life time. be proud of his extreme success.

i know you already know about all the things you are going through but know that we all understand, and support you

keep in touch man

Murph 


 
Posted by The Blam State Zs on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 7:11 PM
[Reply to this] 
GuilleS2N

 

You gave us one of the best records I've ever listened and one of the best shows I've ever been (In Madrid). I hope Much The Same stay the same (or even better, but I doubt it...) and I wish you luck, it was great to speak with you all after the show, you were awsome guys.


 
Posted by GuilleS2N on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 8:57 PM
[Reply to this] 
Sean Times Round

 

Hey man, Just to let you know how much you and Much the Same has inspired me and my band and to get to meet you and play with you guys when you came to Scotland really was one of the best nights of our lives! Im glad to see the rest of the guys keeping it up but you will be truely missed!

congratulations on the engagement! and in your future career plans

sean xxx


 
Posted by Sean Times Round on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 9:09 PM
[Reply to this] 
Kris

 
Good luck I guess, I cant help but be totally fuckin pissed though man. After just getting into the band with Survive, buying the hoodies, donating to the relief fund so in symbolism I could see you guys come to Calgary some day to play a show this is bullshit frankly. This is my initial bitterness to the situation but Im so sick of investing in bands that just go into their prime and then change and or deal with the quitting of their lead singer.
 
Posted by Kris on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 10:50 PM
[Reply to this] 
DmL

 

Gongrats! You will be happy with your new career and family! Keep me posted

DmL


 
Posted by DmL on Sunday, April 15, 2007 - 10:54 PM
[Reply to this] 
Mark

 
I just wanted to say that you will be sorely missed, not only for your vocal talents but also for your personableness before/after/during shows, and even just dealing with people on myspace, etc.  I am glad to hear that the band will be continuing on.  I hope you won't be a stranger at local shows!

 
Posted by Mark on Monday, April 16, 2007 - 1:25 AM
[Reply to this] 
STERIO DESIGN
Sebas Thériault

 
Dude thats a terrible news... i swear i was sat on the toilet with my laptop when i learned about all this...and hopefully! I was so depressed for the rest of the day...im actually still depressed but i understand why you had to quit so bahhh....i was  supposed to see you guys in 11 days....thats sucks...oh well good luck with your future dude
 
Posted by STERIO DESIGN on Monday, April 16, 2007 - 5:38 PM
[Reply to this] 
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