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Biography
Neighborhood friends Don Barnes and Donnie Van Zant decided to form a band in 1974 and called it .38 Special, and were joined by Jack Grondin, Steve Brookins, Jeff Carlisi and Ken Lyons. They released their first, self-titled, album in 1977 followed a year later by “Special Delivery,” both of which had a strong southern rock influence. For their third album, they shifted to a more general arena rock sound, which helped them achieve success with the albums that followed.
Alongside a sound shift, there was also a lineup change with Ken Lyons no longer a member, and the addition of Larry Junstrom, Carol Bristow, and Dale Krantz. Their first series of successful singles came in 1981 with the release of “Hold On Loosely” followed by “Caught Up In You” in 1982 and “If I’d Been The One” in 1983; all of which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Album Rock Track Chart. Their album “Rock & Roll Strategy,” which was released in 1988 contained the successful single “Second Chance.” The single reached No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts, as did the single that followed, “The Sound Of Your Voice.” Throughout the years there were many lineup changes, with Don Barnes being the most constant member, and as of 2014 the lineup consists of Don Barnes, Danny Chauncey, Bobby Capps, Gary Moffatt and Barry Dunaway.
Live reviews
.38 Special have been around since ’74 but these guys play with more energy than your typical group of 20 somethings.
One of the most popular American rock groups from their time, nobody should have any question whether this is a group worth seeing. Some people might worry whether they can deliver the same show they did back in the 70’s, but I assure you this group’s performance does not disappoint. If anything, they almost seem more alive than ever because it is rare to see a group of their age play with such energy. When older icons like .38 Special are still playing live shows for thousands, you know it is because they love playing and the audience equally loves listening.
.38 Special have played alongside groups like Grand Funk Railroad and Lynyrd Skynyrd for years, and it is no surprise they have a similar sound and same lively show. One of the founding members, Donnie Van Zant, is a brother of Ronnie Van Zant, founder and former head singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as Johnny Van Zant, who is now the head singer for the same group. Southern classic rock is simply in their blood.
.38 Special are more than happy to play their old hits, including Hold on Loosely and Rockin’ Into the Night, but they also broadened their horizons and showed appreciation for all classic rock, covering bands like ZZ Top and Creedence Clearwater Revival. It was great to see one band’s take on their peer’s tunes. All in all, the quality of music was very high, complimented well by the quality of energy and enthusiasm coming from the band and audience. Whether you’re a younger person or an old fan from the 70’s, this show has a lot to offer.
jacksonhoward
You have to give credit to a group who can form over forty years ago and still make music and tour together. Florida rock band .38 Special originally got together in 1974 and was founded by long term friends Don Barnes and Donnie Van Zant. Only Don remains with the band yet apart from that, the lineup has remained pretty consistent.
This means they have a fantastic connection with both each other and the fans as they will have played venues and cities numerous times and their devoted fans are likely to have come out to see them over and over. Impressively the southern rock outfit have been recording throughout their lengthy career as opposed to resting on the laurels of their early popularity. The set is a good mixture of tracks old and new and the energy levels are ridiculously high considering most of the musicians onstage are now in their 60s. Totally fuelled by the audiences enthusiasm, they say heartfelt farewells before ending on a stomping rendition of 'Caught Up in You' from back in 1982.
sean-ward
38 Special put on a great show! Don Barnes voice has held up very well. New band is faithful to the music and reproduce the sound well. Did a fantastic cover of Feeling Stronger Every Day! They ALSO played my all time favorite 38 Special song, Chain Lightning, which rocked the house. I knew going in I would like the show, but I came out thinking it was in my top 10 all time concerts. They were on my bucket list and well worth the wait. Definitely a must see if you get a chance!
justojake
38 Special rocks! They opened for Kansas so did an abbreviated show, but played songs nonstop to get every minute of music in for the crowd going crazy for each song.
Will be looking for their next show nearby. Definitely worth seeing!!
Slim546
Incredible and sound just as good as in the 70s and 80s. The only down side if they didn't play as many hits as I would have liked since they opened for another band. We could have listened to 38 special all night!
Wallsrrt
Great music and showmanship. Sounds as good now as they did back in the day!!
Could have played a little longer and performed an encore or two. The guys still have what it takes to put on a good performance.
dj55.jackson
Great show. Band still sounds awesome. Didn't realize how many hits they've written over the years.Great venue but was a bit loud. Went out of there with my ears ringing. Would love to see them again sometime.
Narcan2981
It was AWESOME! We introduced a new fan to the show and she was blown away. The music sounded just like the cd. They played all their hits intermingled with a few other artists songs. In short we had a blast.
Clyde1224
.38 Special, was incredible. They used what time they had wisely, not much talk just really good music. The band was tight and the vocals were spot on. I hope to see them again in the not so distant future.
david-rollins
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