Ranking of Boston Albums in Classic Rock Top 100 list.
Boston is a band that has become a staple in rock ‘n’ roll history, with their rise from obscurity in the latter part of 1976 firmly etched in music lore. The story of Boston is one that resonates with anyone familiar with the annals of popular music – how Tom Scholz, a master’s graduate in mechanical engineering from MIT, utilized his savings from a job at Polaroid to construct a recording studio in the basement of his home. During the early to mid-’70s, Scholz diligently worked on piecing together demos of his songs, which he then presented to Columbia Records.
Columbia Records, impressed by Scholz’s work, provided the funds for Boston’s debut album to be recorded in Los Angeles. However, instead of utilizing the label’s money for studio time, Scholz decided to refine his home demos with the help of singer Brad Delp, where he played most of the instruments himself before submitting the tapes to the label. The resulting debut album was an instant success, selling vast quantities within its first few months and solidifying its place as one of the best-selling debut albums of all time.
Following the monumental success of their debut album, Boston faced pressure to deliver a follow-up record promptly. In response, Scholz and the other band members hurriedly released “Don’t Look Back” in 1978, which went on to become one of Boston’s two No. 1 albums. However, the band’s trajectory took a tumultuous turn as legal disputes, changes in record labels, member turnover, and extended delays between records emerged as recurring challenges for the group. Despite the obstacles, only four additional albums have seen the light of day since “Don’t Look Back,” as personal struggles, like the tragic loss of Brad Delp in 2007, and professional setbacks hindered the band’s progress.
Nevertheless, through the trials and tribulations, Tom Scholz and Boston have managed to retain their signature sound and unwavering dedication to delivering polished arena rock. Boston’s debut album stands as a timeless classic, with subsequent releases over the past four decades comprising only five LPs in total. As the band continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, their influence and impact remain indelible, cementing their legacy as one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most iconic acts.