Before the term “bedroom bands” became commonplace, Boston was essentially the original bedroom band. Tom Scholz, a tech-savvy MIT graduate, crafted songs and recorded demos in his home studio, playing almost every instrument himself in his basement. Recruiting vocalist Brad Delp, Scholz’s demos soon attracted record label attention, launching Boston into rock stardom.
While Scholz was known for his meticulous approach and wasn’t one for rapid album releases, Boston delivered a string of classic hits throughout their career. Despite gaps between albums – famously eight years between their second and third – their peak years produced a wealth of iconic songs. Here, we count down the top 10 Boston Songs that cemented their place in rock history.
10. A Man I’ll Never Be
This ballad from Boston’s Don’t Look Back album showcases a different side of the band, venturing slightly outside their typical high-energy rock sound. “A Man I’ll Never Be” is an introspective track, though it still features Scholz’s signature guitar work. Released as the second single from the album, it reached No. 31 on the charts. Notably, this was Boston’s last Top 40 hit until “Amanda” in 1986, which topped the charts (see No. 2 on our list of top Boston songs). The song’s emotional depth and powerful vocals demonstrate Boston’s range beyond their hard rock anthems.
9. Rock & Roll Band
“Rock & Roll Band,” an album cut from Boston’s monumental self-titled debut, embodies the band’s signature formula. From Scholz’s intricate guitar riffs to Delp’s soaring vocals, the song is a quintessential Boston track. While adhering to the established blueprint of many songs on the album, “Rock & Roll Band” delivers a powerful and energetic performance. The brief but intense guitar solo in the song’s middle section is a highlight, showcasing Scholz’s guitar virtuosity and contributing to the song’s overall impact.
8. Feelin’ Satisfied
“Feelin’ Satisfied,” like many Boston songs, is an anthem celebrating the spirit of rock and roll. At its core, the lyrical content is simple, yet Boston’s passionate delivery elevates the song. The hand claps accompanying the guitar riff in the chorus amplify the celebratory feel, making rock and roll seem like the most vital thing in the world. This track captures the joyous and uplifting essence often found in Boston’s music, making it a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances.
7. Smokin’
Boston delves into a boogie groove with “Smokin’,” a track from their massively successful debut album. Scholz initially developed the song in the early 1970s. Brad Delp contributed to its evolution during the demo stage in Scholz’s basement, and together they crafted a classic rock radio staple. “Smokin'” stands out as the only song on this list of top Boston songs not solely written by Tom Scholz, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the band during their formative years.
6. Something About You
Boston frequently sang about music itself – the emotions it evokes and their dedication to creating it. “Something About You” from their debut album exemplifies this theme. They perform this track with the confidence of seasoned professionals, almost congratulating themselves on their musical achievements, even when their early gigs were in small venues. The song reflects Boston’s early ambition and self-belief as they transitioned from a basement project to a major rock act.
5. Peace of Mind
“Peace of Mind” was among the songs Scholz included on the demo tape that secured Boston’s record deal. The song was remarkably complete even in its demo form. The album version, which became a Top 40 single, primarily enhanced the guitars and overall production quality. Like much of the Boston album, “Peace of Mind” remains a constant presence on classic rock radio playlists. Its enduring appeal is undeniable, particularly due to the iconic fuzzy guitar riff that defines the track.
4. Don’t Look Back
In the 1970s, a year-long gap between albums was considered unusual. When Boston didn’t immediately follow up their blockbuster debut, fans were eager for new music. They would eventually become accustomed to Boston’s extended album cycles. However, when the title track of their second album, Don’t Look Back, was released, any concerns were instantly dismissed. The song soared to No. 4, the album topped the charts, and Boston reaffirmed their status as rock icons.
3. Long Time
“Long Time,” often paired with the instrumental intro “Foreplay,” was written approximately six years before Boston’s debut album. It’s one of Scholz’s earliest compositions, yet it already contains the essential elements of the “Boston sound” that would define the band’s career. The song features powerful guitar riffs, pristine solos, and a solid musical foundation, all hallmarks of Boston’s meticulously crafted music.
2. Amanda
After an eight-year hiatus, Boston released their third album, Third Stage, in 1986. The lead single, “Amanda,” surprised some fans as it wasn’t the hard rocker they might have anticipated. Instead, it’s a love song, initially conceived in 1982. Despite the long wait and a dispute with their record label that delayed new releases, “Amanda” and Third Stage both reached No. 1. This demonstrated Boston’s enduring popularity and their ability to evolve their sound while maintaining chart-topping success.
1. More Than a Feeling
Virtually every track on Boston’s debut album is considered a classic, and the majority of songs on this top 10 list originate from that album. It all begins with “More Than a Feeling,” the opening track and lead single, which reached the Top 5. It boasts one of rock’s most iconic guitar riffs and is a perennial air guitar anthem. Lyrically, it explores Boston’s recurring theme: the transcendent power of music. With “More Than a Feeling,” Boston solidified their legacy and contributed a timeless anthem to the rock canon.
