This CLASSIC 70s Record was REJECTED by EVERY Single Label...It SOLD 17 MILLION! | Professor of Rock

It was the blockbuster record that put rock back on the front burner in the middle of disco…and it came out of nowhere… Tom Scholz and his upstart band Boston saved rock and roll with it’s power chords thought 70s classics like More Than a Feeling, Peace of Mind, Foreplay/Long Time and Rock & Roll Band to name a few of the powerful song that ignited radio. It sent shockwaves through the industry when it sold out virtually everywhere. Yet it’d been rejected by every major label in the industry. one even wrote a rude letter saying it offered nothing new. Tom Scholz the genius behind it had been tinkering in his basement for nearly 6 years perfecting it’s sound… He was rejected, laughed at and on the verge of financial ruin… It helped that had had one of the greatest singers ever in Brad Delp...Up next an original band member who was there during that stint tells rock and roll’s Cinderella story of the record that saved rock and roll.
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Hey music junkies Professor of Rock alway here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time . if it’s only rock and roll but you like it You’ll want to subscribe below so you never miss an episode of our daily features. Make sure to check us out on Patreon to become an insider with us.
It’s time for another edition of our show breakthrough where we break down that singular sensation that helped kick open the door to an artists career and give the long term success. It was one of the greatest debut albums of all time by a monster rock band that by my account is the most under-appreciated bands of the rock and roll era who should’ve been in the rock and Roll hall of fame long ago. I know we talk about the big rock hall of fame snubs quite a bit on here…
Well this might be the mother of all snubs. because they really helped save rock and roll when it was floundering in the mid 70s buried beneath an industry built on disco, mellow pop and singer songwriter fare. Not saying anytime bad about those genres just saying that rock was on the back burner. Well this band and their 17 million selling debut album blew up radio. You know who I’m talking about… Boston and their expansive debut album with rock standards like More Than A Feeling, peace of Mind, long time, Hitch a Ride and Smokin to name but a few…
Released in August 1976, the debut Boston album sent was a rock and roll miracle. The band came out nowhere and shook the world off it’s axis injecting a primal energy into radio Tom Scholz the author of the Boston sound had been tinkering in his basement for nearly 6 years tweaking the record overdubbing and perfecting the sound he heard in his head. Many though he was going insane. That he had been in doors to long. but Scholz had a vision. and eye single to the sound he was trying to communicate to the world. His dream seemed to be slipping away as he was ridiculed, humiliated and dirt poor. Tom Scholz would later say “Everybody thought that it was impossible, because disco ruled the airwaves at the time,”But we stumbled onto a sound that worked, and soon everybody was imitating it.” The record of powerful riffs, multilayered vocals extravaganzas and harmonize guitar leads would over come the popularity of disco.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the greatest debut album of all time? Where every song was good?

[@TheSlowoldman]

This one without question. Boston.

[@catherine6653]

The Cars debut album.

[@Code.Name.V]

The Cars - The Cars

[@freezer8530]

The G.O.A.T.: Boston. Honorable mentions: Foreigner The Cars The Doors Led Zeppelin

[@Code.Name.V]

​@@catherine6653 You beat me to it!

[@LouisWritingSomethingCrazy]

The fact that Madonna is in and these guys aren't tells you everything you need to know about the 'so-called' Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

[@ProfessorofRock]

Right?

[@edwardkeating5285]

I pay no attention to those shills except for the occasional good speech (Dave Grohl for Rush, for example). But to illustrate, I had NO IDEA they put Madonna in there. It must be for her groundbreaker Stairway to Heaven, or maybe her unique and layered Comfortably Numb. Anyway, no Boston, no ELO, or at least Jeff Lynne alone? I'll get as much out of a Cleveland convenience store as I will out of that corporate entity. No disrespect to Cleveland..like the Browns, it's not Cleveland's fault.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And all those rappers. Hall of Shame.

[@kentkearney6623]

Right. Boston members don't blow anything but speakers.

[@peterhendricksen6946]

Total B S!

[@markrobertdevison1227]

The best debut album ever. I saw them in '78. The band was so good they named a city after them.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha! I hope you don't mind if I use that!

[@jillwklausen]

LOL! 😂

[@markrobertdevison1227]

@@ProfessorofRock It's for all to use ! Great interview, thank you.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The city might have come first. Hahahah

[@Fiona2254]

🤣

[@tjoconnell2524]

The nuts thing about Boston’s debut was the fact that EVERY SONG got airplay. I still can’t fathom that.

[@ProfessorofRock]

EVERY single one!

[@louiebee6745]

Yep, Back In Black as well.

[@brenturquhart7090]

I agree, it was a perfect album. No wonder it sold so many albums.

[@louiebee6745]

1976 was the Golden Age of Classic Rock (Heart, Queen, Aerosmith, Frampton. Steve Miller, Bob Seger, BÖC, Thin Lizzy, Petty's debut, etc.) but Boston's debut stands above them all!

[@Terk131]

It was a greatest hits album and they didn’t know it yet.

[@juliesipes8007]

Boston’s debut album is unmatched and magical. Thank you Tom Scholz for not giving up!

[@craigneff5914]

Boston does not need the RRHOF. The RRHOF needs Boston. The fact they are not included just shows what a joke the RRHOF is.

[@jeffreydillingham7630]

Amen!

[@hollymartins6913]

I'm not a passionate Boston fan, but how can they not be in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame? Every time I hear a track from that first album, I'm stunned by how sonically impressive it sounds. From the guitar tone to the vocals, they're fantastic!

[@glennhecker4422]

You mean the "R&B, Rap, Hip-Hop, Dance Pop, and... oh yeah, rock and roll" Hall Of Fame? 🙄

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Never a dull moment with them.

[@RockandRollWoman]

​@@glennhecker4422 You left out country, over Dolly Parton's objection!

[@jimmagnus1200]

The RRHOF is a joke anyway.

[@lawrencedavis4406]

How?? They were never cool, never influential, never appealing to critics or hipsters, never appealing to global audiences just MAiNSTREAM US radio & fans (yes that's a knock against them) plus they came out the same time as the first Ramones album which really did change rock & roll, inspired the UK punk scene & led to the formation of bands like the Clash & Sex Pistols...not Boston, if anyone heard the Boston debut, they did not get inspired to form their own bands...the Ramones did just that...plus the Ramones were catchy & FUN...not Boston, no Boston were a bore, sure they may have SOUNDED impressive, but you did not think "hey I can do that too", like the Ramones did...

[@thescarletandgrey2505]

Also, RIP Brad Delp, 6/12/51-3/9/07. You were a voice sorely needed and enormously missed. Just wish someone could have known your pain and known how to help.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Too young. What a tragic loss.

[@djm4457]

So well said. A voice like no other. He is legend.

[@christineml1476]

This is one of the best albums ever made - every element, whether it's vocals, guitar or drums, is so "clean", it's damn nearly perfect.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I think it is perfect.

[@curtisdangonay]

This, Fleetwood Mac Rumours and The Cars debut are my three favorite albums.

[@ericcire7709]

Agreed. This might be my #2- kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4OsnYKog8eXfas

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It takes me on a musical Six Flags.

[@tacoscamp]

100% fact.

[@jaytrace1006]

Being a Prince fan for over 40 years, I’ve used the term “musical genius” to describe him many, many times. However, if we’re going to be totally honest here, one would have to admit that the pinnacle, the mountaintop, THE musical genius, is Boston’s Tom Scholz. That guy revolutionized the rock & roll sound from the electrical outlet outwards. I swear, if he dies before Boston gets elected to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, then they might as well just burn the place down to embers. The institution means nothing at that point.

[@johnjohnon8767]

If your upset with madonna in the ror hall of fame, how do you feel about dolly Parton? I'd say it's done now, with hip hop personalities inducted too.

[@Oncewasgolden]

The Rock and Roll hall of fame is trash. Ronnie James Dio never got inducted. That should say everything.

[@basher5107]

Dio was the best vocalist in rock and roll and could have sang just about anything and brought three bands relevance

[@leechjim8023]

​@@johnjohnon8767Even Dolly herself didn't think she belonged in it.

[@beenaplumber8379]

Prince was a huge fan of hard rock music. He talked about sitting in his upstairs bedroom in South Minneapolis at night as a teenager so he could tune in the rock radio station from Chicago. He said most of what he listened to was rock. I suspect Long Time might have had an influence on him, and probably the rest of the album too.

[@harrytuttle1446]

Brad Delp’s voice was one of a kind. Nobody sounded like him. RIP sir.

[@evolv.e]

Incredible band. Couldn’t imagine growing up without their music.

[@markallen2984]

Not really a "band" at all.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome. Thanks Evo.

[@evolv.e]

@@markallen2984 Agreed. With so many sounds masterfully layered, (and despite previously knowing this), its easy to forget that this incredible album exists as the result of the musical genius perfected over many years, from just one man.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They hit with all the force!

[@robertmichalscheck3072]

@@evolv.e Tom Schultz was a musical genius,but brad Delps vocals on this album,was a huge contribution to the success of the album,with a different lead singer,may not have been as huge as it was.

[@brentgardner5103]

Boston's self-titled debut album WAS the only one that I have ever played from front to back. Never skipped a song. Perfection!! They absolutely deserve to be in the Rock Hall of Fame. Thanks!!

[@obbor4]

Wait, what? You must have a lot of shitty albums. I don't own a single one (outside of Revolution#9 off The Beatles "white album" ) that I ever pick up the needle before the side ends.

[@BossNotes]

The 70’s was full of albums that the needle never left the album till the end , Aerosmith , Toys in the attic , Elton John YBR , Styx , Black Sabbath , too meant to mention !

[@fortyseven1832]

Man when I was in high school I'd buy a cassette and learn every lyric of every song by heart. For me there were no throw away tracks.

[@dwells37]

It is NOT an overstatement to say that Brad Delp was one of the greatest singers in rock & roll! Truly fantastic.

[@daze023]

Don't overlook James Dewar

[@jumpercable20]

Steve Walsh from Kansas and Mike Reno from Loverboy are also a couple of the greatest rock vocalists as well as Brad Delp.

[@Madmun357]

Yup...and by "ONE" of the greatest singers, you mean THE greatest.

[@rogerkeime2862]

That last she walked away Brad Delp goes higher, and higher, into the stratosphere without stopping to catch his breath for 1 second. One of the most icononic vocalists of the past 120 years.

[@dwells37]

@@rogerkeime2862 agreed! An amazing performance from an amazing singer!

[@walterhamilton-gr1wj]

I graduated high school in '76. I bought this album when it came out in August. Then, I saw them in November as the opening act for Foghat, in Nashville. They literally equalled (if not bested) Foghat, who were a great "live" show themselves. I was shocked and ecstatic at how great their performance was.

[@dustchip8060]

Boston a warm up band for Foghat. Foghat had to be back stage saying, "Oh crap, we have to follow that"? Lol I saw both bands as well.

[@rickmartin6817]

I love James' enthusiasm. He is not only a great drummer, but a great story teller. God bless him. What a great interview.

[@Jamieboy1964]

I'm a 58 yr old man that's been listening to rock/pop music since I was around 7, and I think this is thest album, front to back, of all time...truly an artistic masterpiece

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s up there for me.

[@jeffreyball2089]

You would have been 11

[@juantuan5941]

​@@jeffreyball2089He stated that he's been listening to rock/ pop music since he was 7, not when the album came out. I guess you missed that in English reading comprehension class.

[@beenaplumber8379]

It was a perfect album for sure, and it revolutionized rock. There were other perfect albums though, like Led Zep 4, Who's Next, Dark Side of the Moon, Back in Black, Moving Pictures, and others. I think at that level it's unfair to say anything is the best, only what we like the best. (For me it's The Wall.)

[@Llllllll2011]

I just don’t understand how they’re not in and than a group like A Tribe called Quest gets the vote? That’s a mind bender for me!!

[@anthonyjerussi6343]

I remember being blown away by Boston's first album. It was unlike anything out at the time and even today when I listen to songs from that album, they have a distinct sound that has never been duplicated. An absolutely incredible record by an incredible band. It's absolutely ridiculous that they aren't in the Rock n Roll HOF

[@ChuckWortman]

I think that is the only album where I remember hearing it for the first time and remembering years later exactly where I was when I heard It and still blown away every time I hear It!

[@randytessman6750]

Boston & ELO had some of the most EPIC album covers :) RoH is run by fools !! Thank for another great story Professor

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Randy!

[@TheSlowoldman]

I always said my first tattoo would be the Boston logo (or the Swan Song label)..... LOL. still don't have either one!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The cover lives up to its name.

[@chrispaulus4491]

Wow. Those were my first two albums!

[@ursirius4878]

Tom Sholtz was a musical genius. He even created his own equipment to get the sound he wanted, not to mention he wrote the songs, played every instrument and didn't even have a band to play it. Rock and roll band was just amazing he hadn't even toured or formed a band but he nails life on the road for a rockstar.

[@neechee5150]

@ursirius4878 not quite Tom does not play a single drum track on the debut record, and the record is much better off for this fact. Tom could not play the drum parts on this record anyway. The documentation found in the liner notes of every copy of this record that has ever been sold is very clear on this issue--Sib plays drums on all tracks on the debut Boston record except for Rock and Roll Band and Jim Masdea plays drums on that track.

[@ursirius4878]

@@neechee5150 I probably haven't read the liner notes in 40yrs. I stand corrected.

[@joeboyd1547]

This band needs to be in the rock and roll hall of fame. One of the best bands.

[@joeldukes303]

It’s almost a badge to deserve the Hall but not get in. It’s means nothing to actually get in.

[@stevemcqueen2663]

They don't need the RHOF

[@RC32Smiths01]

Boston is an absolute success story. One that is so inspiring and compelling to write music. Cheers!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Absolutely!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@ProfessorofRock Thank you so much!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Cheers to Bawstin 🍻

[@schlotdoglaser]

Boston was my very first concert ever. It was 1979, LA sports arena and Sammy Hagar opened for them. It was a magical night. On the way home my brother put in this 8-Track tape of a fairly new band called Van Halen…my musical DNA changed that night. Boston definitely saved music

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow. Great memory. Thanks for sharing Keith.

[@laurat1129]

Wow, that's amazing, a great LA Story! If you listen to Sammy on Sat. nights, he still has good things to say about the band Boston.

[@ponzo1967]

Wow! What an introduction to rock and roll. Sometimes we're just wearing the lucky hat LoL

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Sounds like a blast. The Red Rocker!

[@scottbaker5851]

Same for me, but in SD.

[@unnaturalselection8330]

Rock n' roll needs a savior again folks. Some reeeeally bad pop being promoted by the record labels at the moment.

[@ProfessorofRock]

WE need another Boston... No question.

[@bradcsuka5054]

@@ProfessorofRock Exactly! Unfortunately the labels rarely are willing to take a risk.

[@petercena9497]

Gen Z was the first generation in decades to grow up without a rock culture of their own.

[@ericcire7709]

Incredible talent on this recent album - kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4OsnYKog8eXfas

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

At least the good old fashioned past rock will never die.

[@qthebikeahaulic]

I was born in 1962. This is the heartbeat/ soundtrack of my youth. Thank you for setting the tone of my musical journey thru life.

[@SandDabs]

It took me 20 years plus of having the album before I realized those spaceships on the cover were actually upside down guitars

[@howrightiam]

Holy shit, today I learned. Lol, thanks peace

[@Suzette-gb7uj]

Ha! Cute!

[@MyName-pl7zn]

If Mozart was alive when this album was released he would have been blown away. You can hear every drop of blood sweat and tears of the years of putting this album together in it. If there is a better rock album I haven't heard it. Fantastic episode and interview professor, one of the absolute best episodes

[@ProfessorofRock]

You nailed it. Thanks My Name!

[@selfgain9458]

Personally I don't think Mozart would have been too thrilled about rock and roll but I would like to think he would have admired the structure of their music

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Even Robert Frost would have been jamming to this all the time.

[@flavellinator]

Funny, I was just thinking how the intro to Foreplay/Long Time would sound solely in classic piano format...

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee lol, perhaps I made an unfair comparison

[@georgemathie8123]

Boston's debut a perfect album in every way and still continues to move and rock 47 years later

[@Lam_3-22-23]

I was all into punk and southern rock when this album came out. It was actually a breath of fresh air . You couldn't go anywhere without hearing Peace of Mind blasting on jukeboxes or car stereos. How many record labels wanted do-overs?

[@ProfessorofRock]

Right? This album was a monster.

[@bobdavis4848]

"Piece Of Mind" was an Iron Maiden album; you meant "Peace Of Mind." Have a nice day.

[@Lam_3-22-23]

​​@@bobdavis4848 hey I'm old, give me a break 😁 thanks didn't even realize what I wrote

[@bobdavis4848]

@@Lam_3-22-23 Hi Marcus, It wasn't meant as criticism, but to show I care enough about your expression wishes to clarify. I did not know of any mellower way of wording it. There is nothing wrong with being old, and it's relative anyway. :-)

[@bobdavis4848]

@@TracyLeaOgden Yes, that is a good attitude! Peace to you, too! :-)

[@roberthealey-yg6xh]

There will never ever be another band like Boston. They cannot be replicated. Growing into my teen years I remember listening to my record of boston over and over again . I still remember almost every last word of every song on their debut album . Please, please ,if anyone from the rock and roll hall of fame ,if you read this, honor this band and put them in the hall of fame . They more than deserve this honor. 😔

[@markgauthier988]

My mother worked with Brad Delp before his fame. She always said he was a 😊nice kid and left the job to go do some music thing, this always cracks me up; she NO idea what that music ‘thing’ was😂!

[@dgarve]

The special blend of Tom's songs, arrangements and technical innovations was really something. But the magic is due to Delp's soaring vocals. He could sing anything--great leads and harmonies. Everybody knows about the goosebump inducing vocals on the high part of More Than a Feeling, but just as good for me is the high notes Brad hits on "Hollyann" from '86. Insane and inspiring.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Brad is one of THE most underrated singers. He had more pipes than anyone else.

[@flavellinator]

It offered nothing new? You got to be kidding... I'd never heard that kind of layering of guitar sounds before... Completely new! Never knew MIT had frat houses either!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I know. What a stupid comment.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

This sounded UNLIKE anything on the charts in December 1976.

[@MrJamesRose]

Rock n roll hall of fame is a complete joke, featuring artists like Katy Perry who btw doesn't even write her own music.

[@qoqoverici]

I saw them open for Led Zeppelin on their first tour. They had the cleanest sound that was really true to the studio. That was unexpected because live always has the variations. That was an epic concert.

[@dustchip8060]

Studio sound live. They were amazing. You couldn't even play the album through the speakers and get the studio sound because of bad acoustics but they did. I should say Tom did. lol

[@admtech69]

Wow imagine opening for the mighty zep at that time when they were a great live act. I hope jimmy page took notes

[@jamesstevens9394]

My FIRST concert experience at 8 years old was Boston opening for Nazareth on support of their first album. I will never forget they opened with The Star Spangled Banner then segued right into Rock and Roll Band!! At that very moment MY LIFE CHANGED FOREVER!!! I mean i knew what music was and already knew the album, however i was not prepared for the MAGNATUDE of the masses of people there for the same thing!!! I found my home on that day, thank you Tom and company for your amazing achivements, I don't need the RRHOF to tell me who the rockinist band in the land is, iv'e known since that fateful day way back in the summer of '76, just a little band out of BOSTON!!!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Wow, how amazing is that? Love musical segues!

[@jamesstevens9394]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 YES!! seen EVERY Boston tour since (7 in all) and they still open every show that way!!!

[@MS-ox4fl]

What I love about Boston is how tight their records are with only 8 songs. They knew they didn't need to add fluff songs to make it longer. It's like a movie, why add an extra 15 mins, when you have already told your story in an amazing way.

[@GenXtra65]

Thank you for giving Masdea time to tell his story. He deserves credit for his contributions to this great band. The impact of Boston on rock music cannot be overstated. Kids riding around in cars in the mid-70’s had limited space in their 8-track cases. Choices were made. Dark Side of the Moon, Zep IV, Boston, Foreigner, Kansas all had dirty labels from how often they were pulled out for play! LOL! By 1980, Back in Black would join them. I was there. They were, in fact, Epic.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Those bands I would have had all of their albums back then.

[@stingylizard]

Add Deep Purple Machine Head,Sweet Desolation Boulevard and you have a near perfect list. 8 tracks!

[@haplozetetic9519]

That sure takes my memories back to those days!

[@haplozetetic9519]

@@stingylizard 👍👍👍

[@scottbucklin819]

They absolutely belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They are one of the greatest bands of all time.

[@vanatic22]

I clearly remember when that album came out; I was 14 and I RAN (literally) to the store to buy it! To hear that they were told there's 'nothing new there' is insane! EVERYTHING about that sound was new! There was nothing like it before and there has been nothing like it since. Absolutely an amazing album and every single song on it is great! It is my all-time favorite.

[@davidellis5141]

The Boston album when it was released was essentially the submitted demo. Tom Scholtz would spend plenty of money on the follow up Don't Look Back but initially , CBS / Epic got a steal. Classic debut.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true. Especially since they were one of the labels that rejected them.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Wow.

[@johnkovacs4151]

Tom said the record company pressured him to release Don't Look Back before he was finished with it. It still sold 7 million copies! Lead to his lawsuit against the label which he won.

[@fudhater8592]

No, it wasn't. The demo was just Tom and Brad. The released album had all band members on it and Jim Masdea on drums on "Rock & Roll Band".

[@neechee5150]

@davidellis5141said, "The Boston album when it was released was essentially the submitted demo". This is false. Not one track from the demo made it on to the record, and when specifically asked Tom has admitted that this was the case. In addition, you should take a listen to the Boston demo that Rick Beato plays on his KZbin channel. There are very noticeable differences between the demo and the tracks as we hear them on the Boston debut record

[@stevenjacks9966]

So Epic. I was in HS. Pretty much every song on this album was fantastic.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a perfect album.

[@cammygram1]

So glad I was 16 when this came out. Awesome music and awesome friends to share it with!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on!

[@susanpadilla1027]

Me too 16 in 76

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

1976 might as well be one of the greatest years ever in music.

[@escaped1534]

I was 17 and had graduated from HS in June.. This was like a "theme" song for my friends/our new college lives..

[@jamesramirez8685]

Boston is genuine and that's what we respond to. They're one of the best rock bands ever. Just like he said about the other drummers. He was the spark that ignited the light that became Boston.

[@YvetteArby]

I agree: Brad Delp has one of the most beautiful voices in all of rock. RIP, dear man.

[@johnmoody9001]

Wow! Boston was my first rock album and still my favorite. I stuttered and wasn't well received as a teenager. Out of frustration I would turn to Boston and crank it up before my father would get home. This album was my best friend that I never had. It took a while before I came out of my shell. Currently I have speaking engagements all over my state an ordained deacon, and currently the lead trustee in my church. Things have dramatically changed for the better for me ,however, I can't resist the occasional Boston jam session to refocus me and remind myself just how far I have come.

[@brentcox7772]

Such an amazing album!! Plus Brad Delp!! Incredible! Love this band!🤘🤘

[@ProfessorofRock]

top 5 rock singer ever.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Brad’s voice is heaven.

[@Metalphysicalpodcast]

One of the best rock albums. Brad's voice is incredible and yes they should be in the RRHOF.

[@aliciaharris386]

The ENTIRE album is fire! Every. Single. Song. Not a bad one on the album. I used to marvel at Delp’s vocals as I tried to sing along with my amateur soprano voice. Loved it as a teen in the 80’s and love it just as much today.

[@cojaxart8986]

I was riding in the car with my friend Bob, listening to the radio. We were talking about my wedding coming up… then… More Than A Feeling came on… we pulled over to listen to it and find out who this band was… Boston? We turned into a parking lot to call the radio station to get the info and where we could buy the self-titled album. We bought it and wore the grooves out of it!!! But it was amazing how great this album was. I still listen to it and think of that day. Thanks for posting this interview. Great stuff!

[@Krullmatic]

Dude! The sound, engineering and production of the first Boston album is second to none! It definitely still holds up today. It doesn't sound like any other produced album back then! It still sounds like it was put out last week.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a masterpiece from start to finish!

[@Krullmatic]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Hey Lilly, how ya been!? Indeed it is!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@Krullmatic Busy, but content.

[@JesAusCam18]

This debut album was what I used while teaching middle school. It was a difficult time in my life and a difficult job. I played it each day to jump start my day! It got my blood pumping, and helped me get into a better frame of mind.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You mean, it made you have a peace of mind? 😜

[@ericbgordon1575]

Boston is one of the few bands that I can say have impacted me as a musician the same way that the Beatles, Neil Diamond, Eric Clapton or Chicago have impacted me. They did not put out as many records as any of the others, but the records they did make have definitely had their way with my inspiration. Aside from helping me get into progressive rock, a field that terrified me as a kid, I was also in search of (a slice of) Tom's saturated guitar sound. It's great to hear Jim reminiscing about his time in the Boston precursor and observing the way Tom assembled both the music from that first album and the equipment he devised in the process. I appreciate that you uploaded this one, Adam. Everyone latches on to "more than a feeling". That song is okay, but my gym has always been "Peace of mind". I don't blame Tom for being up to here with the former. Whenever I've heard him and videos improvising, I wish he were more prolific. He should be trying to put out new music that should leave "More Than A Feeling" in the lurch.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Peace of Mind and Foreplay/Long Time are my favorites.

[@chrisrobbins16]

I was introduced to Boston in the summer of '78 and it changed my life. Rocker to this day. I was 13 and hearing this sound put me off Shaun Cassidy and the Bee Gees forever. I had found the musical place where I belonged. It was almost like a spiritual experience. I bought "Don't Look Back" when it was released with money I was saving for a 10 speed bike. It was worth working into September for $1/hour and waiting a little longer for my bike. They should have been in the hall of fame 30 years ago.

[@seccrecc67]

Just a silly little story here. I was a custodian at a university, I was in the science building. One professor had a budgie/parakeet in his office. I would be making my round vacuuming/sweeping, pulling trash. I had this cart that had everything i needed on it, including a Bose Bluetooth speaker and I would play music all night long as i made my rounds, a year had gone by when I came to the room with the Budgie, He never liked me interrupting his sleep at 2am. He usually was as far away from me as he could get all fluffed up and looking grumpy. but then it happened that I was listening to Boston when Foreplay/Longtime came on, the budgie came to the front of the cage turned his head and was was looking at my cart through the bars, when that song started thumping away, that budgie started bopping his head and dancing on his perch. He had never done that before. Yeah buddy, that's a good song huh?

[@stuffandjunkandthings364]

It's as close to a perfect album as has ever existed.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

💯

[@christysbutterfly1612]

Every song on this Boston album takes me back to all the summers of my youth! What a time to grow up, miss the 70's and 80's!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Fun all the time!

[@genesound]

I was in a band when the album came out, we were all properly and completely amazed and blown away. I remember listening to it with our lead singer for the first time, I must have had a completely dumbfounded look on my face. I agree, that album did save rock at the time, and I think it will always be one of the most awesome achievements of all time, seemingly came outta nowhere, and was technically very innovative.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

From the depths of disco, yes it did!

[@Rocksite1]

Good call, on Boston not even being in the R&R Hall of Fame. Run DMC is, and they aren't even Rock! As far as greatest debut, one definite candidate everybody seems to be overlooking: Van Halen I. Hendrix "Are You Experienced?"

[@bill2uok753]

It's undeniable that Brad Delp was and will always be the Boston sound. Yes the guitar of Tom Sholtz was great but any band without a singer is just a musical. Sad that Tom didn't give Brad the recognition he wanted. I know the story, the true story. Listen to Boston with the many singers the band went through. Not Boston of old.

[@jamesoneavatar8644]

Definitely one of the best debut albums ever!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

💯

[@edzappia2892]

I can’t hear the story enough about the time, effort, and genious of Tom Schultz creating and recording Boston I in his basement. As much an inspiring American success story as the building of any business.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for watching ED!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Tom put in his 10,000 hours and it shows.

[@marktait2371]

yeh ed agree many interviews over the years tom countless hours in his basement putting together one of 70s rock great records reminded me of another similar story my.late dad went to his old roomate wall of fame induction at m.s.u. brought back photos old players coaches etc who the guys one much younger reunion thats my former student at meridian h.s. larry peavey i was his pe teacher several.months later staying with him ill m.s.u. alumni mag came feature article was larry giving back to hs and msu for music programs talked about peavey electronics began in his parents basement tinkering with radios and amps while in hs college and afterwards 30 years later major electonics company pretty remarkable what both guys did tom.the musician and larry the gear guy for musicians they had dinner at the reunion dad said ohh hes a big donor to schools then later saw article like tom started from humble beginnings

[@shiroibasketshoes]

Yes, very inspirational the genius Tom has been! His last name is spelled Scholz.

[@edzappia2892]

@@shiroibasketshoes Tom? Is that you?

[@TheSlowoldman]

The ABSOLUTE BEST debut album from a legendary band. Tom Scholz is a genius! Brad Delp sings like an angel. I can't stand when they are called Corporate Rock, they have their own sound that NOBODY has ever duplicated, they are instantaneously recognizable! They will always be one of my favorites. The soundtrack of my early teens, BMX, pizza parlor arcade games and my first girlfriend. My Boston fiver......5. More Than A Feeling 4. Rock and Roll Band 3. Feelin' Satisfied 2. Hitch a Ride 1. Don't Be Afraid..... that's for today....tomorrow it will be different because they have so many GREAT songs!!!

[@Lam_3-22-23]

Delp definitely amazing vocalist. I would say that he made the band, but I can't. They were a great sum of all parts. Haven't seen you on in a bit, unless I just flat missed. At my age that's entirely possible.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I love your post and agree 1000%

[@TheSlowoldman]

@@Lam_3-22-23 Hey Marcus, my father in law suffered a stroke last week, we went down to help my mother in law and for support....... he is recovering now. Back at home and this is a welcome back video I can really appreciate!

[@Lam_3-22-23]

@@TheSlowoldman sorry to hear about the father in law, prayers for you guys. This video does bring back memories.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Jann Wenner lumped Foreigner in the “corporate rock” category too. 🙄

[@chrisbrass8930]

More than a decade after this album came out i was stationed in Germany where my buddy had a Z28 Camaro and we'd fly down the autobahnen doing over 100 mph with the T-tops removed listening to this album blaring through the stereo "cranked up to 11". I still have and listen to this album on a regular basis

[@TheClapper4]

Boston's first album was the best album I ever heard. Every song was perfect which is difficult for any group to provide. Truly amazing.

[@dougpeters1625]

Every few years a record comes out that completely breaks the mold and this certainly was one of them! I still hear their music on the radio today and it still sounds just as fresh.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It sounds like it just came out yesterday!

[@17wolf359]

There were only 2 bands that their 1st albums, where all the tracks got airplay. That was Van Halen and Boston. Personally, I think it's a toss up between those two albums for the best first album ever.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I think you're right.

[@edzappia2892]

Led Zeppelin I and Rush I

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And no wonder they had huge success afterwards! They were already flying in the air when they debuted.

[@flavellinator]

What about the Cars debut? To me that's the trifecta...

[@edzappia2892]

@@flavellinator Cars debut album was great, but not legendary and groundbreaking like LZ 1, VH 1, or Boston.

[@pdmullgirl]

Boston most definitely need to be in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame!! No doubt it. It’s crazy that they are not!! This album is genius! Not a bad or even eh song on it. Fantastic band! And a fantastic interview Professor!! Loved this one. ❤️💜💚

[@asdlkj9911]

I first started listening to Boston around 1980 when I was twelve. I was completely blown away and this album has been my favorite of all time. It combines all of the best elements of Rock with melody and harmony. The layers of each song just give it a timeless sound. It is a true work of art.

[@jiml_206.]

"Timeless sound." No better way to describe Boston than this!

[@tacoscamp]

This album is one of the rare LPs that I would spin in entirety on both sides. It's a freshman masterpiece and one of the top 5 greatest debut albums ever released, along with The Clash, G n' R, and the Beatles. I feel terrible for how Brad left us and think about him a lot, and I'm sincerely grateful that I grew up in a time when these songs were all over the AM radio dial. Thanks for keeping the music alive, Professor!

[@shoeski9399]

Hitch a ride is one of my favorite songs then and now. Just heard the "San Fransisco day" version a few years ago and loved it!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I need to check out that version.

[@shanestewart4814]

The record labels have never changed. They picked and chose what THEY wanted to put out in stores and radio back then. And are still doing that 💩 today.

[@ProfessorofRock]

They've hindered a lot of bands and artists. But the good ones have done so much. Depends on who it is.

[@Vibeagain]

@@ProfessorofRock I get that

[@juliafox7904]

Great to hear the memories ❤.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They only care about themselves and the moola.

[@stevewilson9985]

I went out and bought this album immediately after I heard Forplay. When I got home and listened to the rest of the album that was it for me. I think the reason they're not in the Hall is because of proving everyone wrong. If Boston would've spaced these songs out over 3 or 4 albums the naysayers might have not been offended so much. You're right they changed and saved Rock & Roll

[@JeffZeigler-in3di]

Brad and Steve Perry Mentioned as Top shelf but I would throw in Freddie Mercury and Roy Orbison on that Mt Rushmore of Vocalists

[@garrettlowell7637]

“More Than A Feeling” is the song that defines my childhood, from when I first heard it at age 7 and all through high school; and why I learned to play guitar. I still have the original 8 track cassette, original photo LP, and the original 45 single.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s one of my favorite songs ever.

[@kevinking2468]

How could you hear the first Boston album and turn it down?

[@ProfessorofRock]

No kidding.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It HAS to be 11.

[@BillBurnette]

Absolutely has to be considered for the greatest rock album of all time.

[@duaneverde9879]

Boston saved Rock and Roll? Dude, where do you come up with this crap? You didn't even live in those days. I did. I saw Boston on their first "tour". The Runaways open for them. The Runaways blew them away. Boston was boring as watching paint dry. All manufactured sounds and all their songs blended into one nauseating grind. What Boston actually did was extend the mundane and boresome power rock a few years only to usher in power pop bands like boring as heck, Steve Perry's Journey. The band that truly saved Rock and Roll was The Ramones. They brought back what had been missing which was a simple, straightforward, testosterone stimulating teenage heartbeat sound that early 50's and 60's Rock and roll had. Then came The Clash who reestablished the angst that bands like The Who and The Animals did. I suppose we all have different definitions of what "Rock" is. IMO Boston has not aged well. But, put on Deep Purple's "Highway Star" and EVERYBODY and ANYBODY with a pulse will have a huge smile on their face!

[@markr.devereux3385]

I have you tried medication for your confused state. There are new drugs and combinations vthat allow a patient to function and become a productive member of society. Seek counseling immediately there is hope.

[@relpitstudios]

I understand this was about the creation the First Boston Album, but MY GOD, you really should have worked in some questions about why Barry left the band, was Jim surprised that Brad took his own life. ? Why didn’t Jim play the First album, AND WHAT IS TOM SCHOLZ DOING TODAY ??? (Still a great Presentation ! JIM seems like SUCH TREMENDOUS GUY ! Thank You Again !

[@rogerdeahl9629]

I have said many times record labels used to be tone deaf in more ways than one. That Boston couldn't get a sniff of a record deal is insane! Boston was just what the doctor ordered in the 70s. Thank goodness they got through. Thanks for this Professor. I didn't get a notification today, so I have to fix my settings I guess. 😮

[@ProfessorofRock]

Well said!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Screw those sappy record men.

[@RobinMarks1313]

Lucius Annaeus Seneca (c. 4 B.C.E.-65 C.E.) said that if you are a true innovator or genius, you will be rejected and ridiculed. Be Stoic, and keep going. I listen to Boston almost weekly, the full album. Nobody cares about the execs anymore. The album is in outer space you know. The universe doesn't care much about us, but they sure do love Boston. E.T. Phone Home. Pick me up, the earth peaked in 1979, and there won't be a better album. None. Drop the mic. Humanity out.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Well said!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

This album, like the cover, is outa space. Heard that, Major Tom?

[@TKDunn-qq7kd]

What a great interview - it's so insightful to hear how these amazing songs came together. There are other great songs that came later, but this first album is really magical - you can tell these songs were perfected over a long period of time. One of the few albums where the quality of the songs, the quality of the performances and the quality of the recording production were just off the chart... And props to drumming on this record - it's just amazing too!

[@Rocksite1]

Donna Summers' "I Feel Love" came out in '77 as did "Saturday Night Fever," whereas "Boston" came out in '76. I don't really see how it helped bring Rock back in the Disco era, if it hadn't really begun in earnest yet. My recollection is that it was "Back in Black" and "The Wall" that turned the tide. "Boston" is mostly pop-oriented rock - not much harder than most Styx songs or nearly all Journey or Bon Jovi songs. In my view, they represented the watered-down, corporate version of Rock, that forgot all the protests and issues of the '60s; and so was de-hippified, apolitical, and didn't have very serious subject matter. Excellent instrumentals, but they're not saying much of importance that doesn't have to do with personal relationships or partying. Styx SOMETIMES did. Oh yeah. "WKRP in Cincinnati" also had a lot to do with it. Even Bob Seger. I forgot "Women and Children First."

[@richardhavenga4148]

Probably the best ever debut album - period! How they've never made the Hall of Fame is beyond me. Maybe they'll wake up one day but it had better be soon, we're not getting any younger!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha, wise up hall!

[@hugome778]

Oh man, you got me today, Professor! My top 3 favorite bands: Boston, Journey and Queen represented behind you. My first thought was that Boston is perfection, but I liked Jim's quote, "Greatness comes from flaws, not perfection." I've been to the Rock and Roll HOF, and wasn't impressed. It seemed like the most represented bands were the ones that gave them the most 'stuff.' Boston definitely deserves a premiere spot. My best memory of playing this tape was coming home on spring break from college and blasting it in my car with the windows open. That's when I first realized that every song on the album was amazing. I think I played it over and over on that trip.

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's right.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And Jim is right. Sometimes imperfections make a song perfection.

[@hugome778]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 And some imperfections make people perfect too! :)

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@hugome778 Exactly.

[@jameswoodruff7182]

My first car had an 8 track player, and I had a copy of this album that I listened to ALL the time because it rocked so much and was great to drive to. Every song was awesome and still is.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing James! Great memory!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a precious treasure.

[@WeaponsEducation]

I have never listened to a Disco song one time. Disco Sucks and was it a bad mark on everything related to music.

[@bradlcnm]

Combined Foreplay/Long Time is analogous to Feeling That Way/Anytime (Journey)and Heartbreaker/Living Loving Maid or even Black Mountain Side/Communication Breakdown. They just fit - and truly rock!!!

[@paulcook3616]

Boston is amazing ! I remember the disco days , trying to take the lead . I was a kid saying disco is dead , but Rock is Rolling ! Boston came out with a Hugh Bang ! ❤

[@duromusabc]

Hard to imagine none of the hits in that debut smash album reached number 1 in 1976 and 1977 - I think it was unfair ! The band had to wait until like late 1986 for their only number 1 hit

[@ProfessorofRock]

You now your stuff!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Should have been #1 for at least a week. Sorry Rod, but Britt needs a break.

[@jgillettejukebox]

More than a feeling is #1 fave song

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yes.

[@johngreener9784]

Almost the exact same thing that happened to MeatLoaf and Jim Steinman!!! They got rejected by nearly every single record maker at the time. THANK GOD Cleveland records took them on! And thank god Todd Rundgren (a very under appreciated genius imho) took on production! Think how close we came to having NEITHER one of the great great albums.

[@rayheflin5473]

I was a lifeguard, August 76 and Boston was heard everywhere you turned!! The Rock&Roll HOF is a joke for not admitting Boston in !! If it was me, I would turn them down, because basically it’s the Rap & Disco HOF!! lol

[@AZD2169]

Boston, what can I say. They were rock n roll, that gave the escape from disco. In their time I liked both, but as years have turned to decades, I still love Boston. I laugh at my disco days and platform shoes. Great interview.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Andy!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Especially when Disco Duck was popular, Boston was a big respite.

[@anthonyrussell4888]

Do they deserve to be in the Rock Hall? You damn right. Great album. Great band.

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's exactly right Anthony!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They’re in the Hall in our hearts. 💜

[@edwineliel]

You never know what bands/singers/songwriters went through to just get something out there. Thanks Professor for putting the past of these bands and the stories behind them out there for us to learn.

[@MrRay-nt6vb]

On rare occasions a new album breaks new ground. It's different from anything that has come before. On those rare occasions every song is so good most or all become hits in their own right. The album leaves an indelible mark in music history. Those are perfect record albums. One late afternoon Georgia arrived to babysit while my parents went out doing whatever old people do when they go out in 1976. I knew her. She was a frequent babysitter. This time she brought something. She brought a newly released album, from a new band. I remember her showing it to me with excitement. The album cover! Wow, I had never seen anything like it. Three spaceships flying towards me, fleeing from some exploding planet. It captured my imagination. It looked so real. So cool. Georgia took off the shrink wrap. She pulled out the vinyl record, opened the stereo and put the album on the spindle. I was staring at the album cover, mesmerized. I remember the needle slowly touching the spinning vinyl record; catching in the first groove. Then I heard something unlike anything else I heard to date. I was captured right away by the first song, More than a Feeling. Going from listening to the Everly Brothers and Elvis Presley to this new sound blew my mind. This was so very different from anything I heard before. I was listening to what would later become known as the Boston guitar sound. Georgia was grooving to the music. More Than a Feeling was followed up by Peace of Mind. Every song was new, exciting; this is rock and roll. The third song Foreplay / Long Time started. The Foreplay portion is an instrumental. A rock and roll instrumental. It brought me onboard the spacecraft flying at lightspeed to parts unknown. Every song captured me; took me out there. And I was loving the ride. Every song on that record is great. Every. Song. This was the first time I heard a perfect album. The entire album is great. Over time I discovered other perfect albums. This one was so different, new, and exciting. Great. I have listened to a lot of music since 1976. I love music from all time periods. Perfect albums are something special. Boston's first album remains one of my favorites to this day. I don't just usually play a song off this record. I play the entire record. It takes me back to that spaceship. The experience of the needle finding its groove. The stereo playing that first song. I still love the ride.

[@thorstambaugh1520]

They also lucked out with the greatest singer in rock history

[@johnfrank3177]

Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention. Of course, for those of us who were there when this album came out in '76, it was a huge breath of fresh air! Like you said, nothing against the disco music of the time, but when any one type of music dominates the airwaves there will always be those who will be there to challenge the status quo. Keep doing what you are doing! Peace.

[@thelefthandedshooter5760]

Two words: Boston Rocks!

[@ProfessorofRock]

No question!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yep!