For over five decades, the legendary 38 Special Rock Band has been synonymous with high-energy Southern rock, captivating audiences across more than 100 cities annually. Fans consistently leave their concerts astounded by the raw power and explosive performance that this iconic group delivers night after night.
Their enduring legacy is solidified by numerous Gold and Platinum albums, a testament to their status as a true rock powerhouse. With over 20 million records sold, 38 Special is best known for their anthemic arena-rock hits. Tracks like “Hold On Loosely,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “Caught Up in You,” “Fantasy Girl,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong,” “Chain Lightnin’,” “Second Chance,” are not just songs; they are timeless classics. Instantly recognizable from their opening chords, these hits remain radio staples and have paved the way for their continuous touring success.
Guitarist and vocalist Don Barnes emphasizes the importance of maintaining their intense live energy. “We never wanted to become a band that lost its edge or became complacent,” he stated. “We operate as a team, and we have an unspoken agreement to always push ourselves, to elevate our performance. Every night, we go out there with the intention to give it our all and win over the crowd.”
Since their formation in 1976, 38 Special has released over 15 albums. From the very beginning, they established a relentless touring schedule, bringing their distinctive blend of ‘muscle and melody’ to a global fanbase. This unwavering determination remains at the core of the ‘Wild-Eyed Southern Boys’ ethos.
For 38 Special, performing live is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of unity and brotherhood. They function as a finely tuned unit, committed to delivering both their extensive catalog of classic songs and surprisingly fresh new material with unwavering dedication and authenticity. The current lineup features guitarist/vocalist Don Barnes, keyboardist/vocalist Bobby Capps, drummer Gary Moffatt, bassist Barry Dunaway, and guitarist Jerry Riggs.
Barnes further explains, “This music is the driving force that keeps us on the road. As a band, we’ve always strived to stay true to the passion that has fueled us throughout the years. We began with nothing but a fierce resolve to forge our own path and build something lasting. Looking back, our greatest source of pride is our perseverance and the level of success and longevity we’ve achieved. For us, it’s the ultimate validation of our journey.”
“The magic is still alive,” Barnes concludes. “It’s an incredible emotional boost for us to continue delivering at this level after all this time. When the house lights dim, and we walk onto the stage to the roar of the crowd, it’s an absolute rush. It feels like we’re about to buckle up for an incredible ride, and from that moment on, we just take off.”
