"Fly Away" by Blackfoot

Song#:  0637
Date:  06/20/1981
Debut:  89
Peak:  42
Weeks:  12
Genre:  Southern Rock



Pop Bits:  Originally forming as Fresh Garbage in 1969, the band went through numerous personnel and location changes before seeking a contract as Blackfoot. However, the group couldn't find any label interest and basically stopped when two members were offered roles in the Lynyrd Skynyrd band. The band began to reform again around 1972 and by 1975 they had a new line-up and record contract. Their first two albums tanked, but their third for Atco Records did the trick and they hit the Top 40 with "Highway Song" (#26) and "Train Train" (#38). Another successful album came out a year later followed by the LP "Marauder." This single from that album just missed the Top 40 and it would be their last to hit the chart. With the MTV generation beginning, Blackfoot wasn't quite prepared and with diminishing returns they tried to change their look and sound to little success. By 1985 the group called it quits (although a few iterations would reform and tour later).

ReduxReview:  I knew going in that Blackfoot was Southern rock, so I was not real excited about this one. However, it was a slight surprise on the good side. It rocks along in a nice carefree way that almost moves north into heartland rock. It's kind of refreshing when set next to their standard hard/Southern rock tunes. I'm still no fan, but this was a nice listen.

ReduxRating:  6/10

Trivia:  Their Top 40 song "Train Train" was actually written by group member Rickey Medlocke's grandfather Shorty. Several artists have covered this song including a bluegrass version by Dolly Parton that appeared on her Grammy-winning album "The Grass Is Blue" (1999).

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