Back in the late 60's and early '70's it appeared that the strongest backlash to the British invasion that had overtaken American rock and roll was going to come
from the South. It made sense - after all, the very rhythm and blues music that so influenced those British bands had its origins in the American South. Beginning
primarily with the Allman Brothers Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd, these rock bands from the South were soon stretching their popularity worldwide and among those
who followed on their heels was a band fronted by Lynyrd Skynyrd's Ronnie Van Zant's younger brother, Donnie. Since 38 Special formed in Jacksonville, Florida
twenty-five years ago, Van Zant, along with co-founder singer/guitarist, Don Barnes, bass player Larry Junstrom and longtime guitarist Danny Chauncey, have
proven to be one of rock's most durable recording and touring attractions by continuing to grow musically and build upon the legacy they inherited. "People seem to
feel comfortable placing groups in categories and labels," says founder Don Barnes, "It's never really been an issue with 38 Special whether we are thought of as a
'Southern Rock' band or a more universal 'American Rock' band. We are a band that happens to come from the South. I'd like to think our songs demonstrate an
ability to assimilate a broader array of rock influences than what is typically thought of as 'Southern Rock', while still respecting our roots. We're especially proud of
our track record as songwriters."
Although 38 Special has enjoyed a string of pop hits over the years ("Rockin' Into The Night" "Hold On Loosely", "Caught Up In You", "If I'd Been The One" etc.),
they have always been considered one of rock's pre-eminent live bands. CMC International Records is proud to release the band's first-ever live album recorded in
August, 1999 at the annual Sturgis Bike Rally in Sturgis, S.D. The band is celebrating it's 25th anniversary of touring and recording together and its members see
this album as a timely retrospective as they prepare to record a new studio album next year. "It's a great feeling to document a body of work of which we're very
proud," explains Van Zant, "We've always wanted to release a live album and it's a pleasure to give the fans who continue to support us a souvenir of all these
years together."
38 Special has earned 5 gold and 4 platinum albums, which have yielded sales of more than 12 million records. The band continues to tour year 'round and is joined
on the road and on "Live At Sturgis" by longtime keyboardist Bobby Capps and drummer Gary Moffat.
The album, "Live At Sturgis" was recorded at the Buffalo Chip Campground and features many of the band's biggest hits as well as longtime fan favorites. "All of
the elements were working against us at that show," laughs Van Zant, "It was a surprisingly cold and wet night for midsummer, but we tried to forget the elements
and deliver a special evening for the fans who were present and for all of the fans who we hope will enjoy the result." Adds Barnes, "We've always loved the
challenge of getting onstage anywhere at anytime, and rising to what the occasion demanded. Twenty years ago it meant overcoming the apathy of a headliner's
fans and winning them over to our side, and that night in Sturgis it meant competing against the weather. It's all part of an attitude of perseverance that has been
part of the core of this band from day one.
The band will tour in support of this album throughout the coming year. According to Barnes, " 38 Special's goal is to continue growing as artists and to challenge
ourselves as songwriters and musicians. We've never given in to the whims of fashion and hopefully, "Live at Sturgis" is testimony to our pride in ourselves and our
work. I think the result speaks for itself."
