Intro
Discover the iconic rock band 38 Special, behind 8 chart-topping hits like Hold On Loosely and Caught Up in You. Learn about their Southern rock roots, influential sound, and enduring legacy. Dive into the bands history, music evolution, and memorable songs that defined the 80s rock scene.
The southern rock scene of the 1970s and 1980s was dominated by a few key bands, but one group that stood out from the rest was 38 Special. With their unique blend of rock, pop, and southern rock, they managed to create a sound that was both distinctive and accessible to a wide audience. Over the course of their career, 38 Special released eight iconic hits that still get airplay today, and their music remains a staple of classic rock radio.
38 Special was formed in 1974 in Jacksonville, Florida, by Donnie Van Zant, the younger brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd's lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant. The original lineup included Donnie on vocals, Don Barnes on vocals and guitar, Larry Junstrom on bass, Steve Brookins on drums, and Jeff Carlisi on guitar. The band's early sound was heavily influenced by Lynyrd Skynyrd, but they quickly developed their own style, which was more focused on catchy hooks and melodies.
Early Success and Iconic Hits
38 Special's early success came with their second album, "Special Delivery," which was released in 1978. The album included the hit single "Caught Up in You," which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it was their next album, "Rockin' into the Night," that really put them on the map. Released in 1980, the album included the iconic hits "Rockin' into the Night" and "Hold On Loosely," both of which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
A New Sound and Continued Success
In the early 1980s, 38 Special underwent a significant lineup change, with Steve Brookins leaving the band and being replaced by Gary Moffatt. This change marked a new era for the band, as they began to explore a more pop-rock sound. The result was the album "Tour de Force," which was released in 1983 and included the hits "If I'd Been the One" and "Back Where You Belong."
Late-Career Success and Legacy
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, 38 Special continued to release successful albums, including "Strength in Numbers" and "Bone Against Steel." However, it was their 1997 album "Resolution" that included the hit single "Fade to Blue," which reached the top 40 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.
38 Special's Impact on Rock Music
38 Special's impact on rock music cannot be overstated. They were one of the first southern rock bands to achieve mainstream success, paving the way for other bands like.38 Special, Molly Hatchet, and Blackfoot. Their unique sound, which blended rock, pop, and southern rock, influenced a generation of musicians, including bands like R.E.O. Speedwagon and Foreigner.
38 Special's Enduring Legacy
Despite the band's relatively low profile in recent years, 38 Special's music remains popular to this day. Their iconic hits continue to get airplay on classic rock radio, and they have a dedicated fan base that still attends their live shows. In 2014, the band was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
Gallery of 38 Special
38 Special Image Gallery
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at 38 Special's iconic hits and enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering their music, 38 Special's unique sound and contributions to rock music are undeniable. So go ahead, take a trip down memory lane, and revisit some of 38 Special's most iconic hits. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite song!