Southern rock band 38 Special, from Florida, reveals first new studio album in two decades

After a hiatus of more than twenty years, iconic Southern rock band 38 Special is making a triumphant return with the upcoming release of their latest studio album, titled “Milestone,” scheduled to debut on September 19, 2025. This highly anticipated album marks a significant moment for the band as they celebrate their 50th anniversary in the music industry.

Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1974, 38 Special has been a prominent fixture in the rock music scene, known for their distinct sound and chart-topping hits. The band’s enduring legacy is highlighted by their signature songs from the 1980s and early 1990s, such as “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” “Rockin’ into the Night,” “Back Where You Belong,” and “The Sound of Your Voice.” These tracks solidified 38 Special as one of the standout acts of their era, garnering widespread acclaim and adoration from fans worldwide.

As they gear up for the release of “Milestone,” 38 Special has collaborated with a range of talented musicians to breathe new life into their classic sound. Notable artists like Pat Monahan of Train, Randy Bachman, and Jim Peterik have lent their expertise to the creation of this dynamic album, infusing fresh perspectives and innovative musical elements into the band’s latest work.

Lead vocalist and founding member Don Barnes expressed his excitement about the upcoming album, emphasizing the band’s commitment to reinventing themselves for a new era of music. Barnes remarked, “After all this time, we wanted to create a more modern 38 Special album. This is a fresh, updated approach to the sound we’ve been making together for so long. When you’re reintroducing yourself to the world, ‘good enough’ doesn’t work anymore. If you’re gonna do it, you might as well go big.” With this ambitious spirit driving their creative process, 38 Special is poised to captivate audiences once again with their innovative musical vision.

While 38 Special’s last major hit dates back to 1989 with “Second Chance,” the band’s enduring popularity and dedicated fan base have sustained their success over the years. With more than 20 million records sold and a storied history of live performances, 38 Special continues to enchant audiences with their electrifying stage presence and timeless music.

Produced by Barnes and co-written with Peterik, “Milestone” represents a bold new chapter in 38 Special’s illustrious career. This album serves as a testament to the band’s resilience, creativity, and enduring legacy in the world of rock music. As they prepare to unveil their latest offering to fans around the globe, 38 Special is poised to make a triumphant return to the forefront of the music scene, solidifying their reputation as one of the most enduring and influential rock bands of all time.