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38 Special

38 Special is a Southern rock band that achieved popularity during the 1980s with a series of hit albums and singles. Often categorized under the Southern rock genre, the band also infused their sound with a more radio-friendly rock sound, which led to broader appeal. The band was formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1974 by vocalist Donnie Van Zant, the younger brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd's founder, Ronnie Van Zant, and guitarist Don Barnes.

Throughout their career, they have released several albums that have left a lasting imprint on the rock music scene. "Rockin' Into the Night," released in 1980, saw the band begin to move from pure Southern rock towards a more melodic, AOR sound. This shift became even more pronounced with the 1981 album "Wild-Eyed Southern Boys," and its follow-up "Special Forces," which included the hit single "Caught Up in You," consolidating their reputation for catchy, guitar-driven rock with a Southern twist. The mid-80s saw further successes with albums like "Tour De Force" and "Strength in Numbers." By the time they released "Rock & Roll Strategy" in 1988, the group had solidified their position on the rock charts.

The 1991 album "Bone Against Steel" marked the end of an era for 38 Special, as changes in musical tastes began to overshadow the band's traditional rock style. Even so, the group continued to find success on the live circuit and has released several live albums like "Live From Texas" and the "Authorized Bootleg - Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, New York 1/29/85," which showcases their robust live performances. The legacy of 38 Special lies in their ability to blend Southern rock with mainstream popularity, creating a sound that's both authentic and widely appealing. Their energetic performances and memorable hooks have left an indelible mark on the rock genre, culminating in a career that spans more than four decades.

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