Hey guys!! The comment section for the poll this was in was very interesting/divisive, some said the voting was so close because all the songs were so good, some said because they were all equally mediocre, what are you thoughts?! Make sure to vote in today’s poll! Cheers have a great weekend!! 🙌🏻🔥
I like that you guys are honest about your opinion. I liked .38 Special as a teen but I never purchased any of their music. If it came on the radio, I didn't turn it off, it just wasn't purchase-worthy.
My thoughts on that poll were that none of the songs were great, but "Jungle Love" is good. So I voted for it, but most polls will have at least one other song that I think is better. There is nothing by .38 Special that I especially like, but "Rockin' Into the Night" is harder, more southern, and less commercial.
Poll idea: 70s Hidden Gems, songs by American bands that weren't well known during their time but have become influential or well-loved. These songs may not be well known even on this channel, but I feel certain you will like any of them. If others have suggestions, let's hear 'em, but here are mine: When My Baby's Beside Me by Big Star Rock and Roll by Velvet Underground Road Runner by Modern Lovers Can the Can by Suzi Quatro alternate: See No Evil by Television
I saw 38 open for REO Speedwagon back in 1978. Donnie Van Zant strutted like a banty rooster all over the stage. He wasn't the lead singer or lead guitarist or, to my knowledge the song writer. He was nothing like his brother Ronnie ... but he sure thought he was. Most of us just wanted him to get off the stage and let the band play.
Both are archetypal examples of early 80s rock. Billy Squier type stuff. Really this is the era of Journey, Rush, Boston, and Styx. Not really my cup of tea. Downgrades from true 70s southern rock & classic rock (the Who were barely around with Face Dances and It's Hard & Zep broke up after In Through The Out Door & Bonham's death.) The more interesting stuff was new wave and Clash.
This is a good rocking band with a pop flair to all their songs. Yet, good musicians. This group has many hits such as" Rocking into the night" plus many more!
They ARE a 70s band who also mopped up into the 80s and 90s! Now Add Fantasy Girl, Chain Lightening, Wild Eyed Southern Boys, and many more! The movie industry was quick to pick up on them! They went with the nlasing twin drummers, two Sizing guitarists. They were one of the few GREAT bands of the 80s Take a listen to their instrumental killer called Robin Hood, stone cold rockers like stone Cold Believer and so much more. I'm 62 now and I still rock with the wild Wild eyed Southern Boys! Yes, they had some slick stuff too but they were huge in the dirty South, beer joint music and Donnie Van zant always saluted the crowd with a great splash of Jack Daniel's!
Was this really considered Southern Rock? I was around in the 80s and I never thought of it as such. Then again I never played any of their other tunes which could prove me wrong.
This is a stock mix tape selection. At the time, EVERYONE knew this song. A very safe track, played on all the radio stations. As a college student in the late 70's, early 80's, songs like this are very nostalgic. Part of the soundtrack of our lives-which kind of reflects what you said when referencing a game of pool with this playing in the background.
@@kristapendergrassguardascione You obviously didn't read my comment very carefully as I never said it was from the 70's. Your comment was not necessary and a bit aggressive with the "hun....facts". Read the comment again, and in the future, recheck any comment you plan on responding to, because you come off sounding like a troll.....facts.
38 Special was very much a sound of their time. And that’s not a bad thing. They were a considerably more “poppy” sounding southern rock band, perfect for radio hits. They have some fair bangers in their song list but nothing that’s going to put your jaws on the floor.
First couple of songs were okay until they played them over and over again, but then all their songs started to sound the same and quite boring! They were talented, however not my cup of tea!
Jim Peterik, of Survivor fame, was the co-writer of this song. Although Peterik has penned a lot of good songs, an ideal song for A&A would be his 1970 hit, "Vehicle" performed by the Ides of March. It's a banger.
‘I’m the friendly stranger in the black sedan, oh won’t you hop inside my car........’ -- the ultimate predator song! (... and yes, we should probably hate the song for that, but I’ve always liked it! ☺️) - I’m guessing it doesn’t get a lot of air play anymore.
@@rogerballou5904 I wouldn't count on it. Great song...without a doubt. But, I've noticed that some of the groups have multiple cuts and others are ignored.
Kenneth, I think that goes without saying. Although "Hold On Loosely" was a solid radio hit at the time, the quality of music available in the 70's and early 80's that it's compared to is almost unfair. How do you compete when you release a song at the same time that Rush's Moving Pictures comes out, for example? 38 Special was a successful band with a big following who sold out stadiums. As you said, their stuff is definitely better than 90% of what's being made today but today's music is just not the same quality as in the past so it's hard to compare evenly.
Yes, .38 Special has many different sounds...even a Christmas album (A Wild-Eyed Christmas) with original songs. Don Barnes, singing most leads for the band has a great voice...one of those voices that doesn't age. To this day, he sounds awesome in concert. Donnie Van Zant is the founder of the band (middle brother between Ronnie and Johnny) along with Don Barnes. One of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. They formed in Jacksonville, FL in 1974. "Hold on Loosely" came out in 1981. I love their early albums but their 1997 album release, Resolution, is my favorite. Glad you gave them some time on your platform. They are one of southern rock's pride and joy.
38 Special is a really wholesome band. Their catalog was never groundbreaking, but they had some unforgettable classics. I would recommend "Back To Paradise," "Fantasy Girl," "Rock Into The Night," or "Caught Up In You." Memorable songs.
American Pop Rock! 🥰 💕 love it. Radio jams. This is also the best piece of relationship advice I have ever heard. Have a great Friday and quit spilling the Hooch!
I feel that, I was thinking kinda Boston lite so kinda in the same ballpark. Boston being way better of course. You're right though they "look" more like Skynyrd.
Hey guys, you know what might be a good idea... Two ratings for some of the songs... Allow me to elucidate. The first rating can be your overall opinion like you've been doing all along. The second rating can be where you rate the song FOR WHAT IT IS. Give a rating for what you think the song was INTENDED to be. Here's what I mean: "Hold On Loosely", when compared to songs like "The Real Me", "Born On The Bayou", "Roundabout", or almost anything by Led Zeppelin or The Beatles, is going to suffer horribly. Those masterpieces spilled from the minds, hands, and mouths of rock Gods. But when "Hold On Loosely" is compared with "Stuck In The Middle With You", "Edge Of Seventeen", "Bad Moon Rising", or "Money For Nothing" it can hold its own. It's a decent radio hit with a good hook, and a solid sing-a-long factor. Because "Hold On loosely" was never meant to be "Love Reign O'er Me", "Ramble On", or "A Day In The Life". So... Rating one = Your overall opinion, and Rating 2 = "Does it accomplish what it set out to do?" SO "The Spirit Of Radio" would be S tier both times. And "Hold On Loosely" might be a B- song, but as a way to sell singls and get on the radio in 1981? It's an A. Just some thoughts while I sit here hitting a bowl. 😉 Keep up the GREAT work.
A bit confusing, especially when you are comparing something like this “ Soutern Rock, 1980’s style, to something like Roundabout, a totally different sound [ “Prog”... or whatever you want to call it]. Would end up being too complicated in the end. 📻🙂
While their songs may not be “A+”, they were a lot of fun in concert. They enjoyed themselves, and the audience. We, the audience were engaged into the concert by them. I saw them in Fr. Meyers, Florida. They had a lot of hit songs. ( and I’m not knocking your rating). 📻🙂
NOT saying this is a bad idea, but I think they already do this, in their own way. If we subdivide 'S'-tier songs, they lose their status. Having to calculate and recalculate reactions takes away from their freshest takes.
Thanks for the replies folks. Yeah, I'm not suggesting this become a complicated mathematical problem. And I agree, A&A already do this sometimes. I'm just saying that when they occasionally run into a song that seems like a good example of what it was meant to be, that they can throw that in there. Kind of like when I make lasanga... Is it of the highest restaurant quality, using the latest culinary techniques? Hell no... but does it taste good AF? YEP! Not the best lasagna when compared to famous Italian chefs... But it's amazing for a home cook sharing with friends and family.
That would be the bridge to the chorus and yes it sounds better than the actual chorus. I personally have always thought this song rushes into the chorus too soon at the beginning of the song. This was made for radio, for sure.
Poll Suggestion: Animals on the move. Sweet - Fox On The Run Meatloaf - Bat Out Of Hell Bad Company - Run With The Pack Aerosmith - Walkin' The Dog Steve Miller Band - Fly Like An Eagle and... ZZ Top - Tube Snake Boogie
The live version of this song is worthwhile, it captures the audience’s joy so well. There’s a lead up, then the song starts, and the audience goes completely bonkers in the best way imaginable. Makes me smile every time.:)
Guess this isn’t a popular opinion but I actually really really like Hold On Loosely, I think of the cord progressions and changes are underrated, even if they are pop, and the message of the lyrics is really true. Caught Up in You is also really good, but I think they’re different types. I could see this one at the end of a good movie or end of a concert, the other one is a little more tender song I think, it would be in the middle of the movie/show,, both great.
That's the kind of down-the-center good times background rock song I'd include in a BBQ party mix, because many different types of people are attending.
This is an American classic. I’ve never been in a car when this came on and the driver turned it down. It was always cranked to infinity and air instruments were played🤘
This song is a time and place. This song is cruising in fast cars without pollution controls or computers. It's about girls wearing tank tops and tight jeans. Big hair, lots of blush and lipstick. It's awesomeness is in it's memories.
.38 Special came on the very back end of the peak of 70's Southern Rock. They wrote and played very radio friendly Southern Rock which equates to as you both said 'Feel-good music to shoot pool in a bar to." One of Ronnie Van Zant's brother's Donnie Van Zant was in this band. 'Rockin' Into The Night' was their first big hit which is a good little groover.
One of the first “power chord” songs I ever learned to play. As you work your way down the fret board, sliding from a 2 fret to 3 fret separation from chord 1 to 2 and 3 to 4 was ground breaking for me as a beginner rhythm guitarist. I didn’t understand the theory. Just knew that added half step drop on the bottom note for chords 2 and 4 created such a cool progression. Love .38 Special. Never saw them live. I was too young when they were at their peak. But I heard they had 2 drummers (also very innovative - to a 13 year old kid, really only beginning to explore rock music for the first time). Another song with similar power chord attack and dampening technique is Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger”.
I love The Beats first album with Paul Collins. Every song is a winner. That is pop, rock ...played clean and precise but with enough passion that it retains an edge, slightly ragged and rough...played with energy and heart.
The phrase "this is like our 5th album now lets go make some hits" reminds me of REO Speedwagon. Their early stuff is hard rock and their later stuff is radio fodder. Still you should check out something like 157 Riverside Avenue on the You Get What You Play For live album.
Lead singer of this band is the brother of the late Ronnie Van Zandt lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd gotta say I’m surprised this wasn’t banger status for you guys this is one of my favorite songs so catchy!
@@bleonar3 hardly a mascot. One of the founders and was the lead singer on many tracks more so on earlier albums before they hooked up with an outside writer and produced pop type hits with Barnes as the lead singer
Poll Idea: Songs that were themes for movies or TV shows: 4 possible choices off the top of my head: Theme from Shaft by Isaac Hayes, Live and Let Die by McCartney, Call Me by Blondie, and Joe Cocker's A Little Help from My Friends (from the Wonder Years). All good songs in their own right.
Alex would do the GNR version of Live and Let Die. 😂 And, unfortunately, they probably can't do the Joe Cocker song for copyright reasons. Which sucks because I think that version is legit better than the beatles.
Hold On Loosely is one of their big hits, but "Caught Up in You" and "Second Chance" were both top 10 staples of rock. "Caught Up in You" was written by Jim Peterik of Survivor--it just epitomizes 80's commercial rock. It's a just a great melody and song.
Are we not talking about "If I'd Been the One"? Easily one of the best long-dark-night-of-the-soul songs in the rock genre. Been putting a lump in my throat for 37 years.
So being a teenager when this music came out it was all about the partying and the good times. Sounds b to you.. but living it and remembering those times it's still an A+
@@alexjbennett1017 Good point. That being said.. What does make a song A+? Is it the emotions it makes you feel? The technical ability of the players? The production quality? The beat? Etc. That's the beauty of music..it's open to interpretation. This one for me.. Besides the nostalgia factor gets an A+. Killer vocals and guitar.
@@bobbyhemphill5293 Good point. Different music can be great for different things. It's helpful to break down the grade, like A+ in emotion, B+ in beat, C+ production quality, etc. If you grade it A+ because of the memories and tell someone it's A+ without explaining that, than can throw them off. To me an A+ painting looks great no matter where you hang it, no matter how many times you've seen it.
The reason this tune works for me, is that it evokes a feeling, a memory. This tune came out about the time that I was in U.S. Air Force Technical Training, in Biloxi, MS. This tune got excessive air time back then, and I was always guaranteed to hear it at least five times per day on the local station. It was on when I was working, on when I was with friends at the beach, on during our base intramural softball games, on while munching in the chow hall, on while late-night drinking and fishing on the back bay with my buddies and our girlfriends, and on when you went to bed at night. This is one of those tunes that you had to experience, rather than just listen to. That is why it resonates with a lot of us 60-something baby-boomers. For something refreshing, give a listen to Moxy - Sail On Sail Away, or Head East - Since You Been Gone.
I can't believe you have not hit "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" yet, it was in an way early poll, it has guitar solos (with one with fuzz, one with wah pedal, for Andy, drum solo for Alex, and organ solo for both. This needs to be rectified soon, you have to do the ultimate one hit wonder song, of all time! The full length one of course!
@Andy & Alex One thing to remember is that when these songs came out, they were hits because they were the first to sound like this. There were no other songs starting with muted power chords that sounded like that. Now there are a zillion.
A&A Donnie Van Zandt on lead vocals. Older brother Ronnie(RIP) original Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman. Younger brother Johnny fronting Skynyrd since 87. This like ZZ Top's "Eliminator" circa 83 was a great 80's crossover. Polished priduction without losing the soul and grit. Unfortunately in Z Z Top's case what followed for the next few albums was full on 80's heavy handed production. . You know, the kind that Alex enjoys so much, lol. In 2012, ZZ put out the Rick Rubin produced "La Futura" in 2012 which hands down is the best since Eliminator. A&A shoukd check " Brown Sugar" ftom their first album, then I"m "Bad I'm Nationwide" circa 80. Glossier production than what they've heard but still raw Texas Boogie.
@@jamesmoffett526 Oh, my bad. Mostly just making A&A aware of the Skynyrd connection. Barnes only performed with 38 Special whom I appreciate but not enough of a fan to be familiar with band members. I just knew Ronnie's brother was in the band.
@@tomgorman748 How about bad boy Mike Barnes from Karate Kid 3? Lol , Sorry huge fan of the Netflix series Cobra Kai(Karate Kid Saga continued). If you haven't seen best re-boot ever!!! Brilliant show!! Same weiterscwho did "Hot Tub Time Machine" First 2 episodes free on You Tube. Supposedly this character is going to return in,upcoming Season 4 which is why it came to mind.
Flashback time again. I remember listening to this in my friend's 68? Buick Wildcat with a 460 4 barrel screaming down the road. Yes, the car was old then but still. This wasn't a song for the ages but was great cruising fare.
This is probably the best analysis of an 80s “B tier” song (although it may not have been considered that by some 80s folks) I’ve ever heard! Fucking spot on . Believe me I was around when it dominated the radio and that’s what I thought of it even then.
I got to see these guys in concert with America on August 4th, 1991 while I was in basic training for the Army. It's very surreal to be marched to a concert.
Was hoping for Irishman Rory Gallagher on deep cut Saturday or St Patrick’s day Wednesday. Think Clapton on steroids, great singer, songwriter, producer and epic guitarist!
I felt the SAME way forever. Then a few years ago it came on and I was in a good mood and I realized how satisfying it is to have a song that is just so good at being so expected and so... radio, but in the best way. I love this song now. It is chicken soup for the ears.
I feel similarly, never liked this band when I was young and they had hits but now when I hear them on the radio I tip my hat at some well-made pop music that also has a bit of soul and pathos to it.
They put on a great show. I saw them back in '82 at the world series of rock in Milwaukee, and they stole the show away from Foreigner. They were the first band I saw with two drummers, and it was a high energy show.
I loved 'em. They were a highly polished Southern rock band. They had a fair number of hits that are well worth exploring. Listen to the quality of the lead vocal performance and the musicianship; spot on, almost like a group of session cats (they weren't). Great band that will always be in my song rotation list.
This was a great Dance southern Jam back and in the day. Again, it’s the lyrics that mattered. This is one of those songs that you and your buds would get into the mood to hit the night. The best? No, but lots of fun.
Another band out of Jacksonville Florida, often considered the "Little brother" band of Lynard Skynard, as the middle of the Van Zant brothers is the lead singer and the original bassist of Lynard Skynard helped him found .38 Special.
Very fair assessment of the song fellas. I look forward to when you start getting into 80 and 90's college indie rock like The Replacements or Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh, Husker Du, Guided by Voices.
This band helped us heal from losing Skynyrd in the crash. Donnie Van Zant did this and after he Lost his 2 bros in the crash. We love 38 Special for the an Zant-esque quality. Never forget Donnie. He was strong too. Just not forefront. Until 38 Special. Your folks and grand folks all cried the day that plane went down. And we will forever hold on to what was blessed to be left behind. We are the loyal generation.
People here are maybe in a bad mood and hard to please. This song is a nice radio banger. You can put it in your playlist. No, it doesn't transport you to other dimensions or whatever was hoped for. It's just a solid song. 👍🤘
A&A - 38 Special is the kind of "feel good", road-trippin' & keggar party at the lake type of music. You're right.. Great for a pool hall! They were the last remnance of Southern Rock trying to survive in the 80's.... No one needs to think all of the time, right? I always like them, but that's me! lol. Have a good one fellas! :)
@@kathyleigh3590 Hey Girl! So nice to see you. Hope all is well with you too!! Hope to see you when A&A have the 100k celebration, yes? We long timers need to get together!! haha. You take care and will try to pop in more often. Miss ya & make a great day! ☺👋
38 Special was a sort of, POP Southern Rock sound for the 80's. They had great energy on stage and were fun to listen to. Saw them live twice back in the 80's. They had each song worked out so meticulously you almost couldn't tell studio from a live performance. Very impressive, but does take away some of the rawness of a live performance.
The first time I saw 38 Special, they were the opening act for Rush on the Permanent Waves tour. They were a big band with 2 drummers. And Rockin into the Night was the big hit at the time. Most of their hit songs we're co-written with Jim Peterik of "Survivor" fame. 😎☮️
Hey guys!! The comment section for the poll this was in was very interesting/divisive, some said the voting was so close because all the songs were so good, some said because they were all equally mediocre, what are you thoughts?! Make sure to vote in today’s poll! Cheers have a great weekend!! 🙌🏻🔥
I like that you guys are honest about your opinion. I liked .38 Special as a teen but I never purchased any of their music. If it came on the radio, I didn't turn it off, it just wasn't purchase-worthy.
My thoughts on that poll were that none of the songs were great, but "Jungle Love" is good. So I voted for it, but most polls will have at least one other song that I think is better. There is nothing by .38 Special that I especially like, but "Rockin' Into the Night" is harder, more southern, and less commercial.
One word: Generic
Poll idea: 70s Hidden Gems, songs by American bands that weren't well known during their time but have become influential or well-loved. These songs may not be well known even on this channel, but I feel certain you will like any of them. If others have suggestions, let's hear 'em, but here are mine:
When My Baby's Beside Me by Big Star
Rock and Roll by Velvet Underground
Road Runner by Modern Lovers
Can the Can by Suzi Quatro
alternate: See No Evil by Television
To be honest, this sounded like a less interesting "Just What I Needed" in some sections. Chords weren't interesting. The playing was great though!
I held a red Solo cup and danced to this track more times than I can count in high school and college.
Dream 0f red Solo Cup daze n nights (w/ no masks) again.
Donnie Van Zant didn't get the recognition that his brothers Ronnie and Johnny got, but he was one helluva rock n roller in his own right.
He would sling the Jack Daniels!
I agree ☝️
I saw 38 open for REO Speedwagon back in 1978. Donnie Van Zant strutted like a banty rooster all over the stage. He wasn't the lead singer or lead guitarist or, to my knowledge the song writer. He was nothing like his brother Ronnie ... but he sure thought he was. Most of us just wanted him to get off the stage and let the band play.
I loved 38 Special. This was great summertime music, just hanging out with friends and listening to the radio.
This is not a song that will blow you away on first listen, but it sticks with you and is very re-listenable.
It's a solid roadtrip song, radio rock for bbq's. It's rock. It's done well. Like you said, it sticks with you. It's consistently in my rotation.
It's pop music basically. Nothing wrong with that.
Bullshit whole song is fantastic not the typical trash that girley boys here ask for!!!! Pedestrian is Santana Oye Como va wimpy wimpy garbage song
@@chopperdeath no not pop rock
Definitely a rgreat reload song when diving.
38 special = "Caught Up in You"... Better than Hold on Loosely... IMO
Both are archetypal examples of early 80s rock. Billy Squier type stuff. Really this is the era of Journey, Rush, Boston, and Styx. Not really my cup of tea. Downgrades from true 70s southern rock & classic rock (the Who were barely around with Face Dances and It's Hard & Zep broke up after In Through The Out Door & Bonham's death.)
The more interesting stuff was new wave and Clash.
Basically the same song.
@@bleonar3 yup
I was looking up the old 38 Special tunes.So many songs I consciously chose to remove from my memory.
@@billtooke6642 the Who and Zeppelin are overrated. Boston and Journey are 70's not 80's
Also Caught up in You, 38 Special....love them
This is where Alex and Andy shine as reacters. You get an honest appraisal. No more no less.
Song you belt out at the top of your lungs while driving by yourself.
Or in the shower!
LOL.
That's what we did back then...shoot pool, eat Quaaludes, drink, and fall down. Great song for all that.
This is a good rocking band with a pop flair to all their songs. Yet, good musicians. This group has many hits such as" Rocking into the night" plus many more!
That song is just as horrible as "Hold On Loosely".
The slick radio-rock face of Southern Rock, they cleaned up in the early 80's when all the original 70's bands were gone.
Yea, not nearly gritty enough for southern rock...that's always been my take.
well said
They ARE a 70s band who also mopped up into the 80s and 90s! Now Add Fantasy Girl, Chain Lightening,
Wild Eyed Southern Boys, and many more! The movie industry was quick to pick up on them! They went with the nlasing twin drummers, two Sizing guitarists. They were one of the few GREAT bands of the 80s
Take a listen to their instrumental killer called Robin Hood, stone cold rockers like stone Cold Believer and so much more. I'm 62 now and I still rock with the wild Wild eyed Southern Boys! Yes, they had some slick stuff too but they were huge in the dirty South, beer joint music and Donnie Van zant always saluted the crowd with a great splash of Jack Daniel's!
Didn't get mad when it came on the radio but did I ever reach for a .38 Special album? Not so much. Give me some Molly Hatchet instead.
Was this really considered Southern Rock? I was around in the 80s and I never thought of it as such. Then again I never played any of their other tunes which could prove me wrong.
I saw 38 special last summer and they still put on a rocking show🤘
This is a stock mix tape selection. At the time, EVERYONE knew this song. A very safe track, played on all the radio stations. As a college student in the late 70's, early 80's, songs like this are very nostalgic. Part of the soundtrack of our lives-which kind of reflects what you said when referencing a game of pool with this playing in the background.
still played hourly on every classic rock station
This song was 80s so it wasnt played in late 70s hun.......facts
@@kristapendergrassguardascione You obviously didn't read my comment very carefully as I never said it was from the 70's. Your comment was not necessary and a bit aggressive with the "hun....facts". Read the comment again, and in the future, recheck any comment you plan on responding to, because you come off sounding like a troll.....facts.
College days...going ot the beach, the clubs, dating, frat parties, football games, blasting in the apartment off campus.
I always preferred "Caught Up In You" to "Hold On Loosely" but they're very similar in tone and feel.
Ditto.
Caught Up in You Rockin into the night 🤟👍🤟🎸
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
For sure on Rockin into the night. Way more of a rock song than this one
38 Special was very much a sound of their time. And that’s not a bad thing. They were a considerably more “poppy” sounding southern rock band, perfect for radio hits. They have some fair bangers in their song list but nothing that’s going to put your jaws on the floor.
Exactly this.
First couple of songs were okay until they played them over and over again, but then all their songs started to sound the same and quite boring! They were talented, however not my cup of tea!
Way popular back when it come out. Love that 80's music!!!!
Fantasy Girl from this album is by far their best song, IMHO of course.
Jim Peterik, of Survivor fame, was the co-writer of this song. Although Peterik has penned a lot of good songs, an ideal song for A&A would be his 1970 hit, "Vehicle" performed by the Ides of March. It's a banger.
Took the words right out of my mouth. I've actually met him. He's from Northern Illinois.
He also wrote "Heavy Metal" from Sammy Haggar.
‘I’m the friendly stranger in the black sedan, oh won’t you hop inside my car........’ -- the ultimate predator song! (... and yes, we should probably hate the song for that, but I’ve always liked it! ☺️) - I’m guessing it doesn’t get a lot of air play anymore.
That would be a GREAT song. Hopefully some say soon.
@@rogerballou5904 I wouldn't count on it. Great song...without a doubt. But, I've noticed that some of the groups have multiple cuts and others are ignored.
That's a pretty rocking and catchy song. I definitely wouldn't say mediocre.
It's a great song from a fairly mediocre band. They have several bangers though.
Mediocre is C, not B.
“Fantasy Girl” was my jam from them.
BTW, a little piece of history, Hold on Loosely was the 13th song played on MTV on it's debut! Of course everyone only remembers the first song.
This song has stood the test of time! It 1000 times better than 90% of modern music.
Kenneth, I think that goes without saying. Although "Hold On Loosely" was a solid radio hit at the time, the quality of music available in the 70's and early 80's that it's compared to is almost unfair. How do you compete when you release a song at the same time that Rush's Moving Pictures comes out, for example? 38 Special was a successful band with a big following who sold out stadiums. As you said, their stuff is definitely better than 90% of what's being made today but today's music is just not the same quality as in the past so it's hard to compare evenly.
It blows
Sipping a whiskey and enjoying a new tune. Great flex!
It might a little pedestrian today, but back in the day , cruising to A or B rated song in those times was AWSOME!
like on the way to a live band kegger
Even back in the day it was crap.
@@JoeBlow_4
Go blow Joe. Lol. Couldn't help myself. I'm from the 80s.
@@theoneandonlybubblebass817 me as well, and even back then this was crap ;)
@@JoeBlow_4
Okay but did you get the message? Hold on loosely to all things.
Yes, .38 Special has many different sounds...even a Christmas album (A Wild-Eyed Christmas) with original songs. Don Barnes, singing most leads for the band has a great voice...one of those voices that doesn't age. To this day, he sounds awesome in concert. Donnie Van Zant is the founder of the band (middle brother between Ronnie and Johnny) along with Don Barnes. One of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. They formed in Jacksonville, FL in 1974. "Hold on Loosely" came out in 1981. I love their early albums but their 1997 album release, Resolution, is my favorite. Glad you gave them some time on your platform. They are one of southern rock's pride and joy.
Might not be A tier genius but not every A tier song is as relaxing or as feel good as this
Most of this channel "A " tier isnt
38 Special is a really wholesome band. Their catalog was never groundbreaking, but they had some unforgettable classics. I would recommend "Back To Paradise," "Fantasy Girl," "Rock Into The Night," or "Caught Up In You." Memorable songs.
Rockin into the Night is their best song IMO.
"Chain Lightning" "Wild Eyed Southern Boys" Also.
Fantasy Girl is .38 Special for me.
What if I’ve been the one
@@sarahzentexas Agreed.
@@nedrini1387 A great song.
American Pop Rock! 🥰 💕 love it. Radio jams. This is also the best piece of relationship advice I have ever heard. Have a great Friday and quit spilling the Hooch!
I agree!
When I was growing up, we always considered 38 Special as Lynyrd Skynyrd baby brothers band....and it really was that.
Right!
The poor mans Skynyrd
I feel that, I was thinking kinda Boston lite so kinda in the same ballpark. Boston being way better of course. You're right though they "look" more like Skynyrd.
A LOT of interchangeable players in both bands
I feel the same.
“If I’d been the one” great song! Love 38 special!
Hey guys, you know what might be a good idea...
Two ratings for some of the songs... Allow me to elucidate.
The first rating can be your overall opinion like you've been doing all along.
The second rating can be where you rate the song FOR WHAT IT IS. Give a rating for what you think the song was INTENDED to be.
Here's what I mean:
"Hold On Loosely", when compared to songs like "The Real Me", "Born On The Bayou", "Roundabout", or almost anything by Led Zeppelin or The Beatles, is going to suffer horribly. Those masterpieces spilled from the minds, hands, and mouths of rock Gods.
But when "Hold On Loosely" is compared with "Stuck In The Middle With You", "Edge Of Seventeen", "Bad Moon Rising", or "Money For Nothing" it can hold its own. It's a decent radio hit with a good hook, and a solid sing-a-long factor.
Because "Hold On loosely" was never meant to be "Love Reign O'er Me", "Ramble On", or "A Day In The Life".
So... Rating one = Your overall opinion, and Rating 2 = "Does it accomplish what it set out to do?"
SO "The Spirit Of Radio" would be S tier both times.
And "Hold On Loosely" might be a B- song, but as a way to sell singls and get on the radio in 1981? It's an A.
Just some thoughts while I sit here hitting a bowl. 😉
Keep up the GREAT work.
That's a lot of elucidating to say everyone gets a trophy
Today I learned that 'eludicate' is spelled elucidate, so thanks for that
A bit confusing, especially when you are comparing something like this “ Soutern Rock, 1980’s style, to something like Roundabout, a totally different sound [ “Prog”... or whatever you want to call it].
Would end up being too complicated in the end.
📻🙂
While their songs may not be “A+”, they were a lot of fun in concert.
They enjoyed themselves, and the audience. We, the audience were engaged into the concert by them.
I saw them in Fr. Meyers, Florida. They had a lot of hit songs.
( and I’m not knocking your rating).
📻🙂
NOT saying this is a bad idea, but I think they already do this, in their own way. If we subdivide 'S'-tier songs, they lose their status. Having to calculate and recalculate reactions takes away from their freshest takes.
Thanks for the replies folks.
Yeah, I'm not suggesting this become a complicated mathematical problem.
And I agree, A&A already do this sometimes.
I'm just saying that when they occasionally run into a song that seems like a good example of what it was meant to be, that they can throw that in there.
Kind of like when I make lasanga...
Is it of the highest restaurant quality, using the latest culinary techniques?
Hell no... but does it taste good AF? YEP!
Not the best lasagna when compared to famous Italian chefs... But it's amazing for a home cook sharing with friends and family.
An old friend thought they were saying "Hold on, Lucy"!! Haha
"Rockin into the Night" is a 38 Special song that gives me more pleasure than "Hold on Loosely"
And "Doraville" is even better.
Doraville is ARS.
@@MusicLover-wo7ig Derp, take my southerner card. LOL
👍
That would be the bridge to the chorus and yes it sounds better than the actual chorus. I personally have always thought this song rushes into the chorus too soon at the beginning of the song. This was made for radio, for sure.
Poll Suggestion: Animals on the move.
Sweet - Fox On The Run
Meatloaf - Bat Out Of Hell
Bad Company - Run With The Pack
Aerosmith - Walkin' The Dog
Steve Miller Band - Fly Like An Eagle
and...
ZZ Top - Tube Snake Boogie
of those, probably meatloaf
This song is.big guilty pleasure of mine
The live version of this song is worthwhile, it captures the audience’s joy so well. There’s a lead up, then the song starts, and the audience goes completely bonkers in the best way imaginable. Makes me smile every time.:)
I saw them in Ft.Meyers, Florida, back in the day.
They engaged us, the audience, and had as much fun as we did.
📻🙂
Brothers with Lynyrd Skynyrd! Don Barnes is a powerful singer. Still going strong today.
"Caught Up In You" was their #1 hit. Similar sounding
Caught Up In You was better IMO, and the video is great!
This was fun. A nice nostalgia return, but no need to visit anymore 38 Special songs in the future:-)
Atlanta Rhythm Section.. Kings of the B Tier Bands....
Guess this isn’t a popular opinion but I actually really really like Hold On Loosely, I think of the cord progressions and changes are underrated, even if they are pop, and the message of the lyrics is really true. Caught Up in You is also really good, but I think they’re different types. I could see this one at the end of a good movie or end of a concert, the other one is a little more tender song I think, it would be in the middle of the movie/show,, both great.
"If I'd Been the One" is a great listen.
That's the kind of down-the-center good times background rock song I'd include in a BBQ party mix, because many different types of people are attending.
This is an American classic. I’ve never been in a car when this came on and the driver turned it down. It was always cranked to infinity and air instruments were played🤘
This song is a time and place. This song is cruising in fast cars without pollution controls or computers. It's about girls wearing tank tops and tight jeans. Big hair, lots of blush and lipstick. It's awesomeness is in it's memories.
.38 Special came on the very back end of the peak of 70's Southern Rock. They wrote and played very radio friendly Southern Rock which equates to as you both said 'Feel-good music to shoot pool in a bar to." One of Ronnie Van Zant's brother's Donnie Van Zant was in this band. 'Rockin' Into The Night' was their first big hit which is a good little groover.
FINALLY! Love 38 Special. They had a ton of hits
One of the first “power chord” songs I ever learned to play. As you work your way down the fret board, sliding from a 2 fret to 3 fret separation from chord 1 to 2 and 3 to 4 was ground breaking for me as a beginner rhythm guitarist. I didn’t understand the theory. Just knew that added half step drop on the bottom note for chords 2 and 4 created such a cool progression. Love .38 Special. Never saw them live. I was too young when they were at their peak. But I heard they had 2 drummers (also very innovative - to a 13 year old kid, really only beginning to explore rock music for the first time). Another song with similar power chord attack and dampening technique is Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger”.
I love The Beats first album with Paul Collins. Every song is a winner. That is pop, rock ...played clean and precise but with enough passion that it retains an edge, slightly ragged and rough...played with energy and heart.
I think the English Beat’s first album is great too. I think it’s cool both Beats toured together.
That Paul Collins album is so underrated. Literally every song is good.
@@coolbadger6 literally, it's a masterpiece of spiky power rock/punk/pop
@@susanklasinski1805 the English beat weren't bad, certainly.
@@karlsinclair9918 Paul’s beat were excellent of course. Perfect power pop
The phrase "this is like our 5th album now lets go make some hits" reminds me of REO Speedwagon. Their early stuff is hard rock and their later stuff is radio fodder. Still you should check out something like 157 Riverside Avenue on the You Get What You Play For live album.
Absolutely! My favorite REO song. 🔥
Amen to that! My favorite song of one of my favorite live albums!
Personally I prefer caught up in you, but yeah this band is a decently solid arena pop rock band, good commercial stuff
Lead singer of this band is the brother of the late Ronnie Van Zandt lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd gotta say I’m surprised this wasn’t banger status for you guys this is one of my favorite songs so catchy!
Actually, Don Barnes sings all of their hits. Jeff Carlisi played lead. Little Donnie was more like a mascot.
Lead singer was Don Barnes, Donnie Van Zandt was the cofounder and back up singer
@@bleonar3 lol
Later, yes, but not when this was recorded.
@@bleonar3 hardly a mascot. One of the founders and was the lead singer on many tracks more so on earlier albums before they hooked up with an outside writer and produced pop type hits with Barnes as the lead singer
Poll Idea: Songs that were themes for movies or TV shows: 4 possible choices off the top of my head: Theme from Shaft by Isaac Hayes, Live and Let Die by McCartney, Call Me by Blondie, and Joe Cocker's A Little Help from My Friends (from the Wonder Years). All good songs in their own right.
‘The Streetbeater’ by Quincy Jones (Sanford and Son)
@@sgtBelson exactly - songs specifically written for TV themes. Street Beater, Rockford Files, Hawaii 5-0, Peter Gunn. Many good ones!
Alex would do the GNR version of Live and Let Die. 😂
And, unfortunately, they probably can't do the Joe Cocker song for copyright reasons. Which sucks because I think that version is legit better than the beatles.
@@dcook22 The Cocker version is better than The Beatles' version.
Hey, I actually voted for the Rockford Files theme in one of the polls! I love that song!
Hold On Loosely is one of their big hits, but "Caught Up in You" and "Second Chance" were both top 10 staples of rock. "Caught Up in You" was written by Jim Peterik of Survivor--it just epitomizes 80's commercial rock. It's a just a great melody and song.
Are we not talking about "If I'd Been the One"? Easily one of the best long-dark-night-of-the-soul songs in the rock genre. Been putting a lump in my throat for 37 years.
IIHBTO - A lot more emotion in the vocals than this one. A lot more dynamics in the guitars.
This is their best song, it does evoke lots of emotion every time I hear it.
That whole album ("Tour de Force") was like that. Very emotional. And in my opinion, one of their best.
Used to rush home from school with my friends, in 1981, waiting to catch this video on MTV. Loved it then; love it still.
A+ Just for the Album Art.
Are you thinking of Molly Hatchet?
They are underrated. Quality musicians. Tunes still good 40 years later.
I always sang this song “Just hold on, Lucy!” when it’s on the radio, LOL
Played this song in our band back in the early 80's.
The crowd loved it!
Definitely an 80’s teen song and we rocked to it among other things 😉
Those lyrics are so spot on it’s ridiculous! Everyone should follow those rules. Super catchy, love it!
So being a teenager when this music came out it was all about the partying and the good times. Sounds b to you.. but living it and remembering those times it's still an A+
So is it an A+ because of the memories or because of the song? A+ memories don't make a song A+.
@@alexjbennett1017 Good point. That being said.. What does make a song A+? Is it the emotions it makes you feel? The technical ability of the players? The production quality? The beat? Etc. That's the beauty of music..it's open to interpretation. This one for me.. Besides the nostalgia factor gets an A+. Killer vocals and guitar.
@@bobbyhemphill5293 Good point. Different music can be great for different things. It's helpful to break down the grade, like A+ in emotion, B+ in beat, C+ production quality, etc. If you grade it A+ because of the memories and tell someone it's A+ without explaining that, than can throw them off. To me an A+ painting looks great no matter where you hang it, no matter how many times you've seen it.
The reason this tune works for me, is that it evokes a feeling, a memory. This tune came out about the time that I was in U.S. Air Force Technical Training, in Biloxi, MS. This tune got excessive air time back then, and I was always guaranteed to hear it at least five times per day on the local station. It was on when I was working, on when I was with friends at the beach, on during our base intramural softball games, on while munching in the chow hall, on while late-night drinking and fishing on the back bay with my buddies and our girlfriends, and on when you went to bed at night. This is one of those tunes that you had to experience, rather than just listen to. That is why it resonates with a lot of us 60-something baby-boomers.
For something refreshing, give a listen to Moxy - Sail On Sail Away, or Head East - Since You Been Gone.
I can't believe you have not hit "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" yet, it was in an way early poll, it has guitar solos (with one with fuzz, one with wah pedal, for Andy, drum solo for Alex, and organ solo for both. This needs to be rectified soon, you have to do the ultimate one hit wonder song, of all time! The full length one of course!
@Andy & Alex One thing to remember is that when these songs came out, they were hits because they were the first to sound like this. There were no other songs starting with muted power chords that sounded like that. Now there are a zillion.
Something you should check out: “Wrap it Up” by the Fabulous Thunderbirds.
I’ll take it
Now you guys should go back to Bad Company’s Straight Shooter album, and check out “Good lovin’ gone bad”! Straight banger! Have a fabulous weekend! 🎸
or even "Rock Steady" or"Feel Like Makin' Love" , all three would do it
Burnin' Sky would make for an interesting reaction.
A&A Donnie Van Zandt on lead vocals. Older brother Ronnie(RIP) original Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman. Younger brother Johnny fronting Skynyrd since 87. This like ZZ Top's "Eliminator" circa 83 was a great 80's crossover. Polished priduction without losing the soul and grit. Unfortunately in Z Z Top's case what followed for the next few albums was full on 80's heavy handed production. . You know, the kind that Alex enjoys so much, lol. In 2012, ZZ put out the Rick Rubin produced "La Futura" in 2012 which hands down is the best since Eliminator. A&A shoukd check " Brown Sugar" ftom their first album, then I"m "Bad I'm Nationwide" circa 80. Glossier production than what they've heard but still raw Texas Boogie.
Correction, Don Barnes on lead vocals, Donnie on lead guitar and backup vocals.
@@jamesmoffett526 Oh, my bad. Mostly just making A&A aware of the Skynyrd connection. Barnes only performed with 38 Special whom I appreciate but not enough of a fan to be familiar with band members. I just knew Ronnie's brother was in the band.
@@jamesmoffett526 You beat me to it! Those are Don Barnes vocals for sure!
Barnes sang most of the hits.
@@tomgorman748 How about bad boy Mike Barnes from Karate Kid 3? Lol , Sorry huge fan of the Netflix series Cobra Kai(Karate Kid Saga continued). If you haven't seen best re-boot ever!!! Brilliant show!! Same weiterscwho did "Hot Tub Time Machine" First 2 episodes free on You Tube. Supposedly this character is going to return in,upcoming Season 4 which is why it came to mind.
Flashback time again. I remember listening to this in my friend's 68? Buick Wildcat with a 460 4 barrel screaming down the road. Yes, the car was old then but still. This wasn't a song for the ages but was great cruising fare.
This is probably the best analysis of an 80s “B tier” song (although it may not have been considered that by some 80s folks) I’ve ever heard! Fucking spot on . Believe me I was around when it dominated the radio and that’s what I thought of it even then.
yeah, it was a song you got tired of hearing.
I got to see these guys in concert with America on August 4th, 1991 while I was in basic training for the Army.
It's very surreal to be marched to a concert.
Was hoping for Irishman Rory Gallagher on deep cut Saturday or St Patrick’s day Wednesday. Think Clapton on steroids, great singer, songwriter, producer and epic guitarist!
Agreed!
And mandolinist!
Rory was at his very best live. Prior to going solo he fronted a band called Taste.
Dilly Dilly.
"Background music". You just described most of '80s music. White noise. That snare drum, mid range, wall of sound, lack of focus, mish mash.
Rough Housin, Chain Lightning, Wild Eyed Southern Boys rockers. More like a Lynrd Skynrd.
As a child, I could never understand how "clinging too tightly" would make you "loose your toe"
No its lose your bro lol or fro
It’s a perfectly serviceable pop song, clothed in rock trappings. Bubblegum has its place in the world, too.
I'd say it's more rock leaning into pop, rather than pop clothed in rock.
sounds like they're ripping off the Cars....
38 Special ROCKS.
I felt the SAME way forever. Then a few years ago it came on and I was in a good mood and I realized how satisfying it is to have a song that is just so good at being so expected and so... radio, but in the best way. I love this song now. It is chicken soup for the ears.
I feel similarly, never liked this band when I was young and they had hits but now when I hear them on the radio I tip my hat at some well-made pop music that also has a bit of soul and pathos to it.
They put on a great show. I saw them back in '82 at the world series of rock in Milwaukee, and they stole the show away from Foreigner. They were the first band I saw with two drummers, and it was a high energy show.
CRACK THE SKY!!!
I loved 'em. They were a highly polished Southern rock band. They had a fair number of hits that are well worth exploring. Listen to the quality of the lead vocal performance and the musicianship; spot on, almost like a group of session cats (they weren't). Great band that will always be in my song rotation list.
Another must from .38 Special is Rockin' Into The Night. Great song!
Yeah, it's a pretty run of the mill song.
This was a great Dance southern Jam back and in the day. Again, it’s the lyrics that mattered. This is one of those songs that you and your buds would get into the mood to hit the night. The best? No, but lots of fun.
I don’t know, I always loved this song. It WAS fun and my young daughters loved to sing along with me. It was one of our faves.
Another band out of Jacksonville Florida, often considered the "Little brother" band of Lynard Skynard, as the middle of the Van Zant brothers is the lead singer and the original bassist of Lynard Skynard helped him found .38 Special.
Very fair assessment of the song fellas. I look forward to when you start getting into 80 and 90's college indie rock like The Replacements or Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh, Husker Du, Guided by Voices.
The Replacements or Guided By Voices! That'd be awesome!
Husker Du, Sugar, anything by Bob Mould!!
This band helped us heal from losing Skynyrd in the crash. Donnie Van Zant did this and after he Lost his 2 bros in the crash. We love 38 Special for the an Zant-esque quality. Never forget Donnie. He was strong too. Just not forefront. Until 38 Special. Your folks and grand folks all cried the day that plane went down. And we will forever hold on to what was blessed to be left behind. We are the loyal generation.
People here are maybe in a bad mood and hard to please. This song is a nice radio banger. You can put it in your playlist. No, it doesn't transport you to other dimensions or whatever was hoped for. It's just a solid song. 👍🤘
A&A - 38 Special is the kind of "feel good", road-trippin' & keggar party at the lake type of music. You're right.. Great for a pool hall! They were the last remnance of Southern Rock trying to survive in the 80's.... No one needs to think all of the time, right? I always like them, but that's me! lol. Have a good one fellas! :)
Hey Lisa! Agree this is just a having a great time song!! Hope all is well!
@@kathyleigh3590 Hey Girl! So nice to see you. Hope all is well with you too!! Hope to see you when A&A have the 100k celebration, yes? We long timers need to get together!! haha. You take care and will try to pop in more often. Miss ya & make a great day! ☺👋
It was my birthday yesterday! So this is my gift from the gentleman!
49 years going...... ☮️❤️♾️
are you old enough to remember this song!?????
He sure is. I turn 49 next week so I would know!
Mine was the day after yours
38 Special was a sort of, POP Southern Rock sound for the 80's. They had great energy on stage and were fun to listen to. Saw them live twice back in the 80's. They had each song worked out so meticulously you almost couldn't tell studio from a live performance. Very impressive, but does take away some of the rawness of a live performance.
Not a huge fan but "Caught Up in You" better. Definitely great hangout, party rock.
No its not
Yessssssss. LOVE this song. The solo at the end is amazing
Wild Eyed Southern Boys and Rocking Into the Night are two great 38 Special songs
The first time I saw 38 Special, they were the opening act for Rush on the Permanent Waves tour. They were a big band with 2 drummers. And Rockin into the Night was the big hit at the time. Most of their hit songs we're co-written with Jim Peterik of "Survivor" fame. 😎☮️
I've said it once and I'll say it again:
FREEWHEEL BURNING - JUDAS PRIEST
You'll tap out mid way through the song.
Anything Priest pre-Turbo would be awesome. Hell, even the "commercial" tunes are fantastic.
No. Electric Eye!