The Southern rock titans, 38 Special, are back in the spotlight with ‘Milestone,’ their first studio album in over 20 years. Fans eagerly await its release on September 19th, marking a significant return for the Jacksonville-based band since their last LP, ‘Drivetrain,’ in 2004.
Celebrating their 50th anniversary last year, 38 Special is ready to prove that age is just a number. Co-founder Don Barnes emphasized the blend of nostalgia and innovation in their new work, claiming it’s both a continuation of the band’s legacy and a new chapter. “This is a fresh, updated approach to the sound we’ve been making together for so long,” Barnes stated. “Why not make a big statement after all these years?”
‘All I Haven’t Said,’ the first single from ‘Milestone,’ is already making waves, showcasing their signature Southern rock flair with a modern twist. The album is a star-studded affair, featuring collaborations with Randy Bachman, Train’s Pat Monahan, and Jim Peterik, who not only produced the album but also helped pen the band’s 1980 hit, ‘Rockin’ Into the Night.’
38 Special’s journey began in 1974, founded by Barnes and Donnie Van Zant, brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Ronnie Van Zant. The band skyrocketed in the early ’80s with hits like ‘Caught Up in You’ and ‘Second Chance.’ Despite Van Zant’s departure due to health issues in 2013, Barnes remains at the helm, steering 38 Special with vigor and vision.
In the years since, 38 Special has remained a formidable live presence, sharing stages with legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd and REO Speedwagon. Barnes reflects on the band’s resilience, noting, “We’ve built our mission out of sheer stamina and fortitude. After all this time together, we’ve learned that if we’re gonna do something, we should fiercely go at it and do it the best we possibly can.”
Currently on tour with Kansas and Jefferson Starship, 38 Special continues to electrify audiences across the country. As Barnes says, “We still hit 100 cities every year, and we bring a high-energy party to the people every time we’re onstage.”
With ‘Milestone,’ 38 Special not only honors their past but boldly steps into the future, promising a dynamic mix of rockers and reflective tunes. The album is set to be a testament to their enduring passion and relentless drive.
