"Rockin' Into the Night" by 38 Special

Song#:  0037
Date:  02/02/1980
Debut:  80
Peak:  43
Weeks:  9
Genre:  Southern Rock, Arena Rock



Pop Bits:  After a couple of boogie albums didn't really click, 38 special refined their sound by tossing in some arena rock and the result was the "Rockin' Into the Night" album and its single. It was their first chart hit and they remained successful throughout the 80s.

ReduxReview:  I could make a big list of fried things I love, but Southern rock would not be on it. However, probably because they had pop/rock leanings, 38 Special was a Southern rock band that I could listen to without feeling like I have to duck flying beer bottles or wanting to take a shower afterward. It's more arena rock than bar rock and I can dig it - especially with that anthematic chorus.

ReduxRating:  6/10

Trivia:  It was no coincidence that this Southern boogie band found itself on the bill touring with Lynyrd Skynyrd. In addition to sharing a sound, they each featured a Van Zant brother. Skynyrd's leader was Ronnie Van Zant and his brother Donnie headed up 38 Special. Skynyrd ended up with a bigger legacy, but 38 Special ended up with twice as many chart hits.

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