More Than A Feeling – Boston | Top 40 Chart Performance, Story and Song Meaning
Chart Performance: Pop (#5); 1976
Story Behind The Song By Ed Osborne
In 1976 a slice of cinematic classic rock soared across America’s airwaves, and shot over 16 million copies past the cash registers. And, like it’s celluloid counterparts, Boston was “years in the making!” Seven years, in fact.
The director behind Boston was Tom Scholz, MIT graduate, who hooked up with vocalist Brad Delp, one-time heating coil maker for Mr. Coffee machines, in 1970. For five years Tom and Brad recorded and re-recorded demos for what would become Boston’s first album.
Despite Boston’s high-tech sound, no synthesizers or computers were employed in the recording. The futuristic audio was all courtesy of Scholz’ innovative way with guitars, pianos, drums and other instruments.
On Christmas Day 1976, More Than A Feeling – originally recorded as 90 Days in 1972 – peaked at #5. Meanwhile, Scholz continued his day-job commute to Polaroid while Boston became the fastest-selling debut album ever, only requesting temporary leave when it came time to tour.
This content and all Song Meaning articles were created and written by Top 40 Contributing Editor Ed Osborne. © 2024 Ed Osborne. All Rights Reserved. In addition to these song meaning articles, Ed has written our “Year in Music 1960s-1990s” articles.
Produced by:
- John Boylan
- Tom Scholz
- Rodney C. Thompson
Lyrics Written by:
- Tom Scholz
Ed Osborne
Hi. I got my first record at age two and never looked back, spending a decades-long career in radio and the music business. Even after years of reading about and listening to all types of music, I am still fascinated by it. Apart from that, I’m endlessly intrigued by art, nature, and the inner lives of people (and dogs).