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| studio = Foxglove ([[Watertown, Massachusetts]])
| studio = Foxglove ([[Watertown, Massachusetts]])
| genre = [[Hard rock]]<ref name="spreadit1">{{cite web|url=http://music.spreadit.org/vh1-top-100-hard-rock-songs/ |title=Vh1 Top 100 Hard Rock Songs |publisher=Music.spreadit.org |date=January 1, 2009 |access-date=March 25, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212180319/http://music.spreadit.org/vh1-top-100-hard-rock-songs/ |archive-date=February 12, 2009 }}</ref> · [[pop rock]]<ref name="LAtimes">{{cite news|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|accessdate=2023-01-04|via=newspapers.com|author=Hilburn, Robert|date=November 13, 1976|page=36|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115785422/the-los-angeles-times/|title=A Hit Parade Beyond the Top 10}}</ref><ref name="LAtimes2">{{cite news|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|via=newspapers.com|accessdate=2023-01-04|date=September 28, 1976|author=Hilburn, Robert|page=52|title=Debuts: Discs with a Difference|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115786285/the-los-angeles-times/}}</ref>
| genre = [[Hard rock]]<ref name="spreadit1">{{cite web|url=http://music.spreadit.org/vh1-top-100-hard-rock-songs/ |title=Vh1 Top 100 Hard Rock Songs |publisher=Music.spreadit.org |date=January 1, 2009 |access-date=March 25, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212180319/http://music.spreadit.org/vh1-top-100-hard-rock-songs/ |archive-date=February 12, 2009 }}</ref> · [[pop rock]]<ref name="LAtimes">{{cite news|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|accessdate=2023-01-04|via=newspapers.com|author=Hilburn, Robert|date=November 13, 1976|page=36|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115785422/the-los-angeles-times/|title=A Hit Parade Beyond the Top 10}}</ref><ref name="LAtimes2">{{cite news|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|via=newspapers.com|accessdate=2023-01-04|date=September 28, 1976|author=Hilburn, Robert|page=52|title=Debuts: Discs with a Difference|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115786285/the-los-angeles-times/}}</ref>
| length = {{ubl|3:25 (single edit/video version)|4:45 (album version)}}
| length = {{ubl|4:45 (album version)|3:25 (single edit/video version)}}
| label = [[Epic Records|Epic]]
| label = [[Epic Records|Epic]]
| writer = [[Tom Scholz]]
| writer = [[Tom Scholz]]
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}}
}}


"'''More Than a Feeling'''" is a song by the American [[rock music|rock]] band [[Boston (band)|Boston]], released as the lead single from the band's 1976 [[Boston (album)|debut album]] by [[Epic Records]] in September 1976, with "[[Smokin' (Boston song)|Smokin']]{{-"}} as the [[B-side]]. [[Tom Scholz]] wrote the whole song. The single entered the US [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]] on September 18 and peaked at number five.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/boston/chart-history/hsi/|title=Boston chart history|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] }}</ref> The track is now a staple of [[classic rock]] radio, and in 2008, it was named the 39th-best hard rock song of all time by [[VH1]].<ref name="spreadit1"/> It was included in the [[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame]] list of the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll" and is ranked number 212 on [[Rolling Stone|''Rolling Stone'''s]] "500 Greatest Songs of All Time", updated from its previous position of number 500 on the 2004 version.<ref>{{cite web |title=Boston, 'More Than a Feeling' |date=September 15, 2021 |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-songs-of-all-time-1224767/boston-more-than-a-feeling-1225126/ |publisher=Rolling Stone |access-date=October 25, 2021}}</ref>
"'''More Than a Feeling'''" is a song by the American [[rock music|rock]] band [[Boston (band)|Boston]], released as the lead single and the opening track from the band's 1976 [[Boston (album)|debut album]] by [[Epic Records]] in September 1976, with "[[Smokin' (Boston song)|Smokin']]{{-"}} as the [[B-side]]. [[Tom Scholz]] wrote the entire song. The single entered the US [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]] on September 18 and peaked at number five.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/boston/chart-history/hsi/|title=Boston chart history|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] }}</ref> The track is now a staple of [[classic rock]] radio, and in 2008, it was named the 39th-best hard rock song of all time by [[VH1]].<ref name="spreadit1"/> It was included in the [[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame]] list of the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll" and was ranked number 212 on [[Rolling Stone|''Rolling Stone'''s]] "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list in 2021, updated from its previous position of number 500 on the 2004 version.<ref>{{cite web |title=Boston, 'More Than a Feeling' |date=September 15, 2021 |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-songs-of-all-time-1224767/boston-more-than-a-feeling-1225126/ |publisher=Rolling Stone |access-date=October 25, 2021}}</ref>


==Background and writing==
==Background and writing==
"More than a Feeling" took Scholz five years to complete.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20070714031158/http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/6596345/more_than_a_feeling "More than a Feeling" profile], ''Rolling Stone'', 2004.</ref><ref name="max2">{{cite news|author=Aledort, Andy|date=September 1997|title=The Rock Man|newspaper=Maximum Guitar|url=http://www.gonnahitcharide.com/media-library/musician-magazines/266-the-rock-man-maximum-guitar?showall=&limitstart=|access-date=May 17, 2017}}</ref> Scholz wrote the lyrics based on the idea of losing someone close, and on the way in which music can connect a person to memories of the past.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} Though not based on any specific event in Scholz's life, he did take the name Marianne from his cousin.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ew.com/article/2016/03/13/more-feeling-boston-tom-scholz/|title='More Than a Feeling': The making of a rock classic|website=Ew.com|access-date=April 23, 2021}}</ref> It is one of six songs (five of which eventually appeared on the ''Boston'' album<ref name="satisfied">{{cite web|url=http://www.thirdstage.ca/boston/articles/online-articles/523-feelin-satisfied-an-interview-with-tom-scholz-of-boston|title=Feelin' Satisfied: An Interview with Tom Scholz of Boston|publisher=thirdstage.ca|author=Wright, J.|access-date=June 5, 2012}}</ref>) that he worked on in his basement from 1968 to 1975, before Boston got its record contract.<ref name="max">{{cite news|author=Aledort, Andy|date=September 1997|title=The Rock Man|newspaper=Maximum Guitar|url=http://www.gonnahitcharide.com/media-library/musician-magazines/266-the-rock-man-maximum-guitar?showall=&limitstart=|access-date=May 17, 2017}}</ref> The drum parts were originally developed by [[Jim Masdea]], although [[Sib Hashian]] played the drums on the official release.<ref name=satisfied/> The song is in compound [[AABA form]].<ref>Covach, John (2005), "Form in Rock Music: A Primer", in Stein, Deborah, ''Engaging Music: Essays in Music Analysis'', New York: Oxford University Press, p.74-75, {{ISBN|0-19-517010-5}} .</ref>
"More than a Feeling" took Scholz five years to complete.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20070714031158/http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/6596345/more_than_a_feeling "More than a Feeling" profile], ''Rolling Stone'', 2004.</ref><ref name="max2">{{cite news|author=Aledort, Andy|date=September 1997|title=The Rock Man|newspaper=Maximum Guitar|url=http://www.gonnahitcharide.com/media-library/musician-magazines/266-the-rock-man-maximum-guitar?showall=&limitstart=|access-date=May 17, 2017}}</ref> Scholz wrote the lyrics based on the idea of losing someone close, and on the way in which music can connect a person to memories of the past.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} Though not based on any specific event in Scholz's life, he did take the name Marianne from his cousin.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ew.com/article/2016/03/13/more-feeling-boston-tom-scholz/|title='More Than a Feeling': The making of a rock classic|website=Ew.com|access-date=April 23, 2021}}</ref> It is one of six songs (five of which eventually appeared on the ''Boston'' album<ref name="satisfied">{{cite web|url=http://www.thirdstage.ca/boston/articles/online-articles/523-feelin-satisfied-an-interview-with-tom-scholz-of-boston|title=Feelin' Satisfied: An Interview with Tom Scholz of Boston|publisher=thirdstage.ca|author=Wright, J.|access-date=June 5, 2012}}</ref>) that he worked on in his basement from 1968 to 1975, before Boston got its record contract.<ref name="max2"/> The drum parts were originally developed by [[Jim Masdea]], although [[Sib Hashian]] played the drums on the official release.<ref name=satisfied/> The song is in compound [[AABA form]].<ref>Covach, John (2005), "Form in Rock Music: A Primer", in Stein, Deborah, ''Engaging Music: Essays in Music Analysis'', New York: Oxford University Press, p.74-75, {{ISBN|0-19-517010-5}} .</ref>


==Content==
==Content==
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Boston's website says the song is about "the power an old song can have in your life",<ref>{{cite web|title=Boston|url=http://www.bandboston.com/html/album1_html.html|publisher=Boston|access-date=June 5, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120608015621/http://www.bandboston.com/html/album1_html.html|archive-date=June 8, 2012}}</ref> with Scholz elaborating that "it was sort of a bittersweet ballad."<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrEzoa9-I8g&t=16m37s|title=Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling|date=October 10, 2015|via=YouTube}}</ref> ''Ultimate Classic Rock'' critic Michael Gallucci points out that this is a common theme in Boston songs.<ref name=ultimate>{{cite news|title=Top 10 Boston songs|author=Gallucci, Michael|url=http://ultimateclassicrock.com/boston-songs/|access-date=March 23, 2017|newspaper=Ultimate Classic Rock}}</ref>
Boston's website says the song is about "the power an old song can have in your life",<ref>{{cite web|title=Boston|url=http://www.bandboston.com/html/album1_html.html|publisher=Boston|access-date=June 5, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120608015621/http://www.bandboston.com/html/album1_html.html|archive-date=June 8, 2012}}</ref> with Scholz elaborating that "it was sort of a bittersweet ballad."<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrEzoa9-I8g&t=16m37s|title=Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling|date=October 10, 2015|via=YouTube}}</ref> ''Ultimate Classic Rock'' critic Michael Gallucci points out that this is a common theme in Boston songs.<ref name=ultimate>{{cite news|title=Top 10 Boston songs|author=Gallucci, Michael|url=http://ultimateclassicrock.com/boston-songs/|access-date=March 23, 2017|newspaper=Ultimate Classic Rock}}</ref>


The lyrics express the author's discontent with the present and his yearning for a former love named Marianne, whose memory is strongly evoked by an old familiar song. In an interview Scholz was asked, "Who is Marianne?" He replied, "There actually is a Marianne. She wasn't my girlfriend." He explained that when he was 8 or 9 years old he had a much older cousin whom he thought was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen and that he was "secretly in love" with her (laughs),<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrEzoa9-I8g&t=20m29s|title=Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling|date=October 10, 2015|via=YouTube}}</ref> but he has also stated that the lyrics were inspired by his emotions after a school love affair ended, and were influenced by the lyrics of the [[Left Banke]] song "[[Walk Away Renee]]".<ref name=max/> ''Maximum Guitar'' author Andy Aledort pointed out that the [[guitar chord]] progression of G-D/F#-Em7-D that follows the line "I see my Marianne walking away" also comes from "Walk Away Renee."<ref name=max/> Aledort also explains that the guitar solo is unusual in that it incorporates [[mordent]]s and inverted mordents, which are more typically used in [[baroque music]].<ref name=max/>
The lyrics express the author's discontent with the present and his yearning for a former love named Marianne, whose memory is strongly evoked by an old familiar song. In an interview Scholz was asked, "Who is Marianne?" He replied, "There actually is a Marianne. She wasn't my girlfriend." He explained that when he was 8 or 9 years old he had a much older cousin who he thought was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen and that he was "secretly in love" with her (laughs),<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrEzoa9-I8g&t=20m29s|title=Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling|date=October 10, 2015|via=YouTube}}</ref> but he has also stated that the lyrics were inspired by his emotions after a school love affair ended, and were influenced by the lyrics of the [[Left Banke]] song "[[Walk Away Renee]]".<ref name="max2"/> ''Maximum Guitar'' author Andy Aledort pointed out that the [[guitar chord]] progression of G-D/F#-Em7-D that follows the line "I see my Marianne walking away" also comes from "Walk Away Renee."<ref name="max2"/> Aledort also explains that the guitar solo is unusual in that it incorporates [[mordent]]s and inverted mordents, which are more typically used in [[baroque music]].<ref name="max2"/>


==Reception==
==Reception==
''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' described "More Than a Feeling" as an "electric guitar-dominated rocker...made commercial with an accessible beat and hand-clap backup and smooth, soaring vocals."<ref>{{cite news|title=Top Single Picks|newspaper=Billboard Magazine|date=August 28, 1976|page=84|access-date=June 12, 2020|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-Billboard/70s/1976/Billboard%201976-08-28.pdf}}</ref> ''[[Cash Box]]'' said "it’s a hard-rock offering, but has a sophisticated melody that makes good use of [[minor chords]]" and has "attractive" unison guitar work and powerful vocals.<ref name=cb>{{cite news|title=CashBox Singles Reviews|date=August 28, 1976|page=18|accessdate=December 11, 2021|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Cash-Box/70s/1976/Cash-Box-1976-08-28.pdf|newspaper=Cash Box}}</ref> ''[[Record World]]'' said that with the song Boston "shows it is adept at rocking with a heavy metal fury, yet at the same time builds a dynamic tension around the melody of the tune."<ref name=rw>{{cite magazine|magazine=Record World|date=September 4, 1976|page=14|accessdate=2023-03-04|title=Single Picks|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Record-World/70s/76/RW-1976-09-04.pdf}}</ref> ''Classic Rock'' critic Paul Elliott rated it as "Boston's all-time greatest song".<ref name=louder>{{cite web|title=The 10 Greatest Boston Songs Ever|date=March 10, 2016|author=Elliott, Paul|accessdate=2022-06-17|publisher=Louder Sound|work=Classic Rock|url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/the-10-greatest-boston-songs-ever}}</ref> ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' critic [[Robert Hilburn]] called it a "marvelously appealing pop-rock single" and said that it ranks with [[Queen (band)|Queen]]'s "[[Bohemian Rhapsody]]" as one of the best singles of 1976.<ref name="LAtimes" /> Hilburn also said that the song combines "the graceful splendor and rousing melodic [[hook (music)|hook]]s of the [[Moody Blues]], the strident guitar impact of Queen's [[Brian May]] and some of the romantic pop-rock consciousness of [[Eric Carmen]] and the old [[Raspberries (band)|Raspberries]]."<ref name="LAtimes2" />
''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' described "More Than a Feeling" as an "electric guitar-dominated rocker...made commercial with an accessible beat and hand-clap backup and smooth, soaring vocals."<ref>{{cite news|title=Top Single Picks|newspaper=Billboard Magazine|date=August 28, 1976|page=84|access-date=June 12, 2020|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-Billboard/70s/1976/Billboard%201976-08-28.pdf}}</ref> ''[[Cash Box]]'' said "it’s a hard-rock offering, but has a sophisticated melody that makes good use of [[minor chords]]" and has "attractive" unison guitar work and powerful vocals.<ref name=cb>{{cite news|title=CashBox Singles Reviews|date=August 28, 1976|page=18|accessdate=December 11, 2021|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Cash-Box/70s/1976/Cash-Box-1976-08-28.pdf|newspaper=Cash Box}}</ref> ''[[Record World]]'' said that with the song Boston "shows it is adept at rocking with a heavy metal fury, yet at the same time builds a dynamic tension around the melody of the tune."<ref name=rw>{{cite magazine|magazine=Record World|date=September 4, 1976|page=14|accessdate=2023-03-04|title=Single Picks|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Record-World/70s/76/RW-1976-09-04.pdf}}</ref> ''Classic Rock'' critic Paul Elliott rated it as "Boston's all-time greatest song".<ref name=louder>{{cite web|title=The 10 Greatest Boston Songs Ever|date=March 10, 2016|author=Elliott, Paul|accessdate=2022-06-17|publisher=Louder Sound|work=Classic Rock|url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/the-10-greatest-boston-songs-ever}}</ref> ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' critic [[Robert Hilburn]] called it a "marvelously appealing pop-rock single" and said that it ranks with [[Queen (band)|Queen]]'s "[[Bohemian Rhapsody]]" as one of the best singles of 1976.<ref name="LAtimes" /> Hilburn also said that the song combines "the graceful splendor and rousing melodic [[hook (music)|hook]]s of the [[Moody Blues]], the strident guitar impact of Queen's [[Brian May]] and some of the romantic pop-rock consciousness of [[Eric Carmen]] and the old [[Raspberries (band)|Raspberries]]."<ref name="LAtimes2" />


''[[Guitar World]]'' states that when the radio plays "More Than a Feeling", "few can resist indulging in fits of fleet-fingered air guitar and a spirited falsetto sing-along."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Boston: Feelin' Satisfied|magazine=[[Guitar World]]|date=October 2006|access-date=August 16, 2013|url=http://www.guitarworld.com/boston-feelin-satisfied|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927140239/http://www.guitarworld.com/boston-feelin-satisfied|archive-date=September 27, 2013}}</ref> ''[[Rolling Stone Album Guide]]'' critic Paul Evans states that "as slick as it sounds, 'More Than a Feeling' strikes an uncommonly resonant emotional note."<ref>{{cite book|title=[[The Rolling Stone Album Guide]]|author=Evans, P.|editor=Brackett, N.|editor2=Hoard, C.|edition=4th|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page=[https://archive.org/details/newrollingstonea00brac/page/96 96]|year=2004|isbn=0743201698}}</ref> Gallucci rated it Boston's greatest song, as did ''Classic Rock History'' critic Brian Kachejian.<ref name=ultimate/><ref name=crh>{{cite web|title=Top 10 Boston Songs|author=Kachejian, Brian|publisher=Classic Rock History|accessdate=2023-01-20|url=https://www.classicrockhistory.com/top-10-boston-songs/}}</ref> ''Ultimate Classic Rock'' critic Dave Swanson rated it the number-28 all-time classic rock song.<ref>{{cite news|title=No. 28: Boston, 'More Than a Feeling' – Top 100 Classic Rock Songs|newspaper=Ultimate Classic Rock|author=Swanson, Dave|url=http://ultimateclassicrock.com/boston-more-than-a-feeling-top-100-classic-rock-songs/?trackback=tsmclip|access-date=March 23, 2017}}</ref>
''[[Guitar World]]'' states that when the radio plays "More Than a Feeling", "few can resist indulging in fits of fleet-fingered air guitar and a spirited falsetto sing-along."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Boston: Feelin' Satisfied|magazine=[[Guitar World]]|date=October 2006|access-date=August 16, 2013|url=http://www.guitarworld.com/boston-feelin-satisfied|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927140239/http://www.guitarworld.com/boston-feelin-satisfied|archive-date=September 27, 2013}}</ref> ''[[Rolling Stone Album Guide]]'' critic Paul Evans states that "as slick as it sounds, 'More Than a Feeling' strikes an uncommonly resonant emotional note."<ref>{{cite book|title=[[The Rolling Stone Album Guide]]|author=Evans, P.|editor=Brackett, N.|editor2=Hoard, C.|edition=4th|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page=[https://archive.org/details/newrollingstonea00brac/page/96 96]|year=2004|isbn=0743201698}}</ref> Gallucci rated it Boston's greatest song, as did ''Classic Rock History'' critic Brian Kachejian.<ref name=ultimate/><ref name=crh>{{cite web|title=Top 10 Boston Songs|author=Kachejian, Brian|publisher=Classic Rock History|accessdate=2023-01-20|url=https://www.classicrockhistory.com/top-10-boston-songs/}}</ref> ''Ultimate Classic Rock'' critic Dave Swanson rated it the number-28 all-time classic rock song.<ref>{{cite news|title=No. 28: Boston, 'More Than a Feeling' – Top 100 Classic Rock Songs|newspaper=Ultimate Classic Rock|author=Swanson, Dave|url=http://ultimateclassicrock.com/boston-more-than-a-feeling-top-100-classic-rock-songs/?trackback=tsmclip|access-date=March 23, 2017}}</ref>


==Personnel==
==Personnel==
* [[Tom Scholz]] – electric guitar
* [[Tom Scholz]] – electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitar
* [[Brad Delp]] – lead and backing vocals, acoustic guitar
* [[Brad Delp]] – lead and backing vocals
* [[Fran Sheehan]] – bass guitar
* [[Sib Hashian]] – drums
* [[Sib Hashian]] – drums


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{{Certification Table Entry|region=Germany|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Gold|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2023|access-date=March 2, 2023}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Germany|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Gold|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2023|access-date=March 2, 2023}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Italy|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2019|access-date=February 3, 2022}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Italy|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2019|access-date=February 3, 2022}}
{{Certification Table Entry |region=Spain|type=single|award=Platinum|certweek=13|relyear=1977|certyear=2024|certref=<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.elportaldemusica.es/awards/index?AwardsSearch%5Bartist%5D=BOSTON&AwardsSearch%5Btitle%5D=MORE+THAN+A+FEELING&AwardsSearch%5Byear%5D=&AwardsSearch%5Bweek%5D=&AwardsSearch%5Bgroup%5D=&AwardsSearch%5Baward%5D=|website=El portal de Música|publisher=[[Productores de Música de España]]|title=Boston - More Than a Feeling|accessdate=3 April 2024}}</ref>}}
{{Certification Table Entry |region=Spain|type=single|award=Platinum|relyear=1977|certyear=2024|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|accessdate=3 April 2024}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United Kingdom|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=2004|certyear=2020|date=April 3, 2020|access-date=April 3, 2020|id=4362-861-1}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United Kingdom|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=2004|certyear=2020|date=April 3, 2020|access-date=April 3, 2020|id=4362-861-1}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United States|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Gold|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2005|digital=true|date=April 8, 2020|access-date=April 8, 2020}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United States|artist=Boston|title=More Than a Feeling|award=Gold|type=single|relyear=1977|certyear=2005|digital=true|date=April 8, 2020|access-date=April 8, 2020}}
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==Covers and use in politics and other media==
==Covers and use in politics and other media==
⚫
* In 1992, when [[Nirvana (band)|Nirvana]] performed their breakthrough single, "[[Smells Like Teen Spirit]]", at the [[Reading and Leeds Festivals|Reading Festival]], they incorporated part of "More Than a Feeling" at the beginning, a reference to the similarities between the two songs' main guitar riffs. This part is included on the DVD version of Nirvana's live album, ''[[Live at Reading]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Greene |first1=Andy |title=Flashback: Nirvana Play a Bit of Boston's 'More Than a Feeling' |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/flashback-nirvana-play-a-bit-of-bostons-more-than-a-feeling-114519/ |access-date=November 30, 2019 |magazine=Rolling Stone |issue=January 29, 2015}}</ref>
*The song was covered by [[Yes (band)|Yes]] members [[Alan White (Yes drummer)|Alan White]], [[Tony Kaye (musician)|Tony Kaye]] and [[Billy Sherwood]] in 2007 for the Sherwood-produced all-star album ''Rock Infinity''.
⚫
* In 2008 [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] presidential candidate [[Mike Huckabee]] used the song to promote his campaign. Former Boston band member [[Barry Goudreau]] made appearances with Huckabee both live and on YouTube. In February 2008, Scholz wrote to Huckabee requesting that he stop using the song, stating: "While I'm flattered that you are fond of my song, I'm shocked that you would use it and the name Boston to promote yourself without my consent. Your campaign's use of 'More Than a Feeling', coupled with the representation of one of your supporters as a member 'of Boston' clearly implies that the band Boston, and specifically one of its members, has endorsed your candidacy, neither of which is true."<ref>[https://archive.today/20120918160444/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/13511/70354 "'More Than a Feeling'" Writer Says Mike Huckabee Has Caused Him 'Damage'"], ''Rolling Stone'' website, February 14, 2008.</ref> Huckabee complied with Scholz's request, and videos featuring Barry Goudreau and the song were subsequently removed by the Huckabee campaign.
⚫
*In 1992, when [[Nirvana (band)|Nirvana]] performed their breakthrough single, "[[Smells Like Teen Spirit]]", at the [[Reading and Leeds Festivals|Reading Festival]], they incorporated part of "More Than a Feeling" at the beginning, a reference to the similarities between the two songs' main guitar riffs. This part is included on the DVD version of Nirvana's live album, ''[[Live at Reading]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Greene |first1=Andy |title=Flashback: Nirvana Play a Bit of Boston's 'More Than a Feeling' |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/flashback-nirvana-play-a-bit-of-bostons-more-than-a-feeling-114519/ |access-date=November 30, 2019 |magazine=Rolling Stone |issue=January 29, 2015}}</ref>
*The song was covered by the band [[Ingram Hill]] and included on the soundtrack for the 2005 movie ''[[Herbie: Fully Loaded]]''.
*The song was covered by the Zoo Animals from 2011 American fantasy comedy film ''[[Zookeeper (film)|Zookeeper]]''.
*The was sample in the song "Totally Hooked" by DJ Peter Presta in 2005.
⚫
*In 2008 [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] presidential candidate [[Mike Huckabee]] used the song to promote his campaign. Former Boston band member [[Barry Goudreau]] made appearances with Huckabee both live and on YouTube. In February 2008, Scholz wrote to Huckabee requesting that he stop using the song, stating: "While I'm flattered that you are fond of my song, I'm shocked that you would use it and the name Boston to promote yourself without my consent. Your campaign's use of 'More Than a Feeling', coupled with the representation of one of your supporters as a member 'of Boston' clearly implies that the band Boston, and specifically one of its members, has endorsed your candidacy, neither of which is true."<ref>[https://archive.today/20120918160444/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/13511/70354 "'More than a Feeling'" Writer Says Mike Huckabee Has Caused Him 'Damage'"], ''Rolling Stone'' website, February 14, 2008.</ref> Huckabee complied with Scholz's request, and videos featuring Barry Goudreau and the song were subsequently removed by the Huckabee campaign.
*The song appears in the 2008 Dreamworks film ''[[Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa]]'' where the penguins steal the cars of tourists in Africa and also appears on the plane near the end of the film.
*The song appears in trailers and teasers from Pixar's ''[[Inside Out (2015 film)|Inside Out]]'' and Netflix's ''[[Leo (2023 American film)|Leo]]''.


==Downloadable content for music games==
==Downloadable content for music games==
*The song was covered by [[WaveGroup Sound]] as part of the soundtrack for the original ''[[Guitar Hero (video game)|Guitar Hero]]'' released in 2005,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.guitarherosongs.co.uk/guitar-hero-song-lists.php?versionid=1 | title=Guitar Hero Songs List}}</ref> and later released as a master recording on ''[[Guitar Hero Smash Hits]]'' and ''[[Guitar Hero Live]]''{{'}}s ''GHTV''.
*The song was covered by [[WaveGroup Sound]] as part of the soundtrack for the original ''[[Guitar Hero (video game)|Guitar Hero]]'' released in 2005,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.guitarherosongs.co.uk/guitar-hero-song-lists.php?versionid=1 | title=Guitar Hero Songs List}}</ref> and later released as a master recording on ''[[Guitar Hero Smash Hits]]'' and ''[[Guitar Hero Live]]''{{'}}s ''GHTV''.
*The song was made [[List of downloadable songs for the Rock Band series|available to download]] on March 1, 2011, for use in the ''[[Rock Band]]'' music video game series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thegamingvault.com/2011/02/eleven-legacy-rock-band-tracks-getting-pro-upgrades-on-mach-1st/|title=Eleven Legacy Rock Band Tracks Getting PRO Upgrades On March 1st|first=Kyle|last=Gaddo|date=February 25, 2011|access-date=November 8, 2012|publisher=The Gaming Vault|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525005535/http://www.thegamingvault.com/2011/02/eleven-legacy-rock-band-tracks-getting-pro-upgrades-on-mach-1st/|archive-date=May 25, 2013}}</ref>
*The song was made [[List of downloadable songs for the Rock Band series|available to download]] on March 1, 2011, for use in the ''[[Rock Band]]'' music video game series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thegamingvault.com/2011/02/eleven-legacy-rock-band-tracks-getting-pro-upgrades-on-mach-1st/|title=Eleven Legacy Rock Band Tracks Getting PRO Upgrades On March 1st|first=Kyle|last=Gaddo|date=February 25, 2011|access-date=November 8, 2012|publisher=The Gaming Vault|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525005535/http://www.thegamingvault.com/2011/02/eleven-legacy-rock-band-tracks-getting-pro-upgrades-on-mach-1st/|archive-date=May 25, 2013}}</ref>
*The song is also available as downloadable content (DLC) for the ''[[Rocksmith]]'' guitar learning game. The song is available individually or as part of the 'Rock Hits 70s' Song Pack along with "[[Jessica (instrumental)|Jessica]]" by [[The Allman Brothers Band]] and [[Deep Purple]]'s "[[Smoke on the Water]]."<ref>{{cite web | url = http://rocksmith.ubi.com/rocksmith/en-US/downloads/ | title = Rocksmith™ DLC Official US Site Ubisoft® | website = Rocksmith+ | access-date = April 11, 2013}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Songs about music]]
[[Category:Songs about music]]
[[Category:1976 songs]]
[[Category:1976 songs]]
[[Category:Presidential campaign songs]]

Latest revision as of 04:46, 27 December 2024

"More Than a Feeling"
Single by Boston
from the album Boston
B-side"Smokin'"
ReleasedSeptember 1976
RecordedOctober 1975 – April 1976
StudioFoxglove (Watertown, Massachusetts)
GenreHard rock[1] · pop rock[2][3]
Length
  • 4:45 (album version)
  • 3:25 (single edit/video version)
LabelEpic
Songwriter(s)Tom Scholz
Producer(s)
Boston singles chronology
"More Than a Feeling"
(1976) 		"Long Time"
(1977)
Music video
"More Than a Feeling (Single edit)" on YouTube

"More Than a Feeling" is a song by the American rock band Boston, released as the lead single and the opening track from the band's 1976 debut album by Epic Records in September 1976, with "Smokin'" as the B-side. Tom Scholz wrote the entire song. The single entered the US Billboard Hot 100 on September 18 and peaked at number five.[4] The track is now a staple of classic rock radio, and in 2008, it was named the 39th-best hard rock song of all time by VH1.[1] It was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame list of the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll" and was ranked number 212 on Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list in 2021, updated from its previous position of number 500 on the 2004 version.[5]

Background and writing

[edit]

"More than a Feeling" took Scholz five years to complete.[6][7] Scholz wrote the lyrics based on the idea of losing someone close, and on the way in which music can connect a person to memories of the past.[citation needed] Though not based on any specific event in Scholz's life, he did take the name Marianne from his cousin.[8] It is one of six songs (five of which eventually appeared on the Boston album[9]) that he worked on in his basement from 1968 to 1975, before Boston got its record contract.[7] The drum parts were originally developed by Jim Masdea, although Sib Hashian played the drums on the official release.[9] The song is in compound AABA form.[10]

Content

[edit]
"More Than a Feeling"
Chorus, with lead-in
Problems playing this file? See media help.

The Book of Rock Lists suggests that the chorus riff may itself be a subtle homage to the Kingsmen's classic, "Louie Louie." Scholz has stated in multiple interviews his fondness for the James Gang, and in particular that band's 1970s album, James Gang Rides Again.[11][12][13][14] Accordingly, the signature riff for "More than a Feeling" bears a resemblance to that composed by Joe Walsh for the "Rides Again" track "Tend My Garden".[15] Scholz credits "Walk Away Renee" by The Left Banke as the song's main inspiration.[16][17]

Boston's website says the song is about "the power an old song can have in your life",[18] with Scholz elaborating that "it was sort of a bittersweet ballad."[19] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Michael Gallucci points out that this is a common theme in Boston songs.[20]

The lyrics express the author's discontent with the present and his yearning for a former love named Marianne, whose memory is strongly evoked by an old familiar song. In an interview Scholz was asked, "Who is Marianne?" He replied, "There actually is a Marianne. She wasn't my girlfriend." He explained that when he was 8 or 9 years old he had a much older cousin who he thought was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen and that he was "secretly in love" with her (laughs),[21] but he has also stated that the lyrics were inspired by his emotions after a school love affair ended, and were influenced by the lyrics of the Left Banke song "Walk Away Renee".[7] Maximum Guitar author Andy Aledort pointed out that the guitar chord progression of G-D/F#-Em7-D that follows the line "I see my Marianne walking away" also comes from "Walk Away Renee."[7] Aledort also explains that the guitar solo is unusual in that it incorporates mordents and inverted mordents, which are more typically used in baroque music.[7]

Reception

[edit]

Billboard described "More Than a Feeling" as an "electric guitar-dominated rocker...made commercial with an accessible beat and hand-clap backup and smooth, soaring vocals."[22] Cash Box said "it’s a hard-rock offering, but has a sophisticated melody that makes good use of minor chords" and has "attractive" unison guitar work and powerful vocals.[23] Record World said that with the song Boston "shows it is adept at rocking with a heavy metal fury, yet at the same time builds a dynamic tension around the melody of the tune."[24] Classic Rock critic Paul Elliott rated it as "Boston's all-time greatest song".[25] Los Angeles Times critic Robert Hilburn called it a "marvelously appealing pop-rock single" and said that it ranks with Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" as one of the best singles of 1976.[2] Hilburn also said that the song combines "the graceful splendor and rousing melodic hooks of the Moody Blues, the strident guitar impact of Queen's Brian May and some of the romantic pop-rock consciousness of Eric Carmen and the old Raspberries."[3]

Guitar World states that when the radio plays "More Than a Feeling", "few can resist indulging in fits of fleet-fingered air guitar and a spirited falsetto sing-along."[26] Rolling Stone Album Guide critic Paul Evans states that "as slick as it sounds, 'More Than a Feeling' strikes an uncommonly resonant emotional note."[27] Gallucci rated it Boston's greatest song, as did Classic Rock History critic Brian Kachejian.[20][28] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Dave Swanson rated it the number-28 all-time classic rock song.[29]

Personnel

[edit]

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[47] Gold 45,000‡
Germany (BVMI)[48] Gold 250,000‡
Italy (FIMI)[49] Platinum 50,000‡
Spain (PROMUSICAE)[50] Platinum 60,000‡
United Kingdom (BPI)[51] Platinum 600,000‡
United States (RIAA)[52] Gold 500,000*

* Sales figures based on certification alone.
‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Covers and use in politics and other media

[edit]
  • In 1992, when Nirvana performed their breakthrough single, "Smells Like Teen Spirit", at the Reading Festival, they incorporated part of "More Than a Feeling" at the beginning, a reference to the similarities between the two songs' main guitar riffs. This part is included on the DVD version of Nirvana's live album, Live at Reading.[53]
  • In 2008 Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee used the song to promote his campaign. Former Boston band member Barry Goudreau made appearances with Huckabee both live and on YouTube. In February 2008, Scholz wrote to Huckabee requesting that he stop using the song, stating: "While I'm flattered that you are fond of my song, I'm shocked that you would use it and the name Boston to promote yourself without my consent. Your campaign's use of 'More Than a Feeling', coupled with the representation of one of your supporters as a member 'of Boston' clearly implies that the band Boston, and specifically one of its members, has endorsed your candidacy, neither of which is true."[54] Huckabee complied with Scholz's request, and videos featuring Barry Goudreau and the song were subsequently removed by the Huckabee campaign.

Downloadable content for music games

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Vh1 Top 100 Hard Rock Songs". Music.spreadit.org. January 1, 2009. Archived from the original on February 12, 2009. Retrieved March 25, 2014.
  2. ^ a b Hilburn, Robert (November 13, 1976). "A Hit Parade Beyond the Top 10". Los Angeles Times. p. 36. Retrieved January 4, 2023 – via newspapers.com.
  3. ^ a b Hilburn, Robert (September 28, 1976). "Debuts: Discs with a Difference". Los Angeles Times. p. 52. Retrieved January 4, 2023 – via newspapers.com.
  4. ^ "Boston chart history". Billboard.
  5. ^ "Boston, 'More Than a Feeling'". Rolling Stone. September 15, 2021. Retrieved October 25, 2021.
  6. ^ "More than a Feeling" profile, Rolling Stone, 2004.
  7. ^ a b c d e Aledort, Andy (September 1997). "The Rock Man". Maximum Guitar. Retrieved May 17, 2017.
  8. ^ "'More Than a Feeling': The making of a rock classic". Ew.com. Retrieved April 23, 2021.
  9. ^ a b Wright, J. "Feelin' Satisfied: An Interview with Tom Scholz of Boston". thirdstage.ca. Retrieved June 5, 2012.
  10. ^ Covach, John (2005), "Form in Rock Music: A Primer", in Stein, Deborah, Engaging Music: Essays in Music Analysis, New York: Oxford University Press, p.74-75, ISBN 0-19-517010-5 .
  11. ^ Rides Again - James Gang | Songs, Reviews, Credits | AllMusic, retrieved October 13, 2020
  12. ^ "Tom Scholz Quotes". BrainyQuote. Retrieved October 13, 2020.
  13. ^ "A decade in his basement gave Tom Scholz a brand-new Boston album". Retrieved October 13, 2020.
  14. ^ "Tom Scholz of Boston on music & more". San Diego Union-Tribune. July 20, 2014. Retrieved October 13, 2020.
  15. ^ "James Gang Rides Again". Classic Rock Review. July 13, 2020.
  16. ^ "The Band Boston Fan Site - Sound & Vision Review of Tom Scholz' Remasters". Gonnahitcharide.com. May 7, 2006. Retrieved October 11, 2016.
  17. ^ "More Than a Feeling by Boston, Song Stories". Rolling Stone Music. Archived from the original on May 29, 2012.
  18. ^ "Boston". Boston. Archived from the original on June 8, 2012. Retrieved June 5, 2012.
  19. ^ Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling. October 10, 2015 – via YouTube.
  20. ^ a b Gallucci, Michael. "Top 10 Boston songs". Ultimate Classic Rock. Retrieved March 23, 2017.
  21. ^ Boston / Tom Scholz exclusive interview / More Than A Feeling. October 10, 2015 – via YouTube.
  22. ^ "Top Single Picks" (PDF). Billboard Magazine. August 28, 1976. p. 84. Retrieved June 12, 2020.
  23. ^ "CashBox Singles Reviews" (PDF). Cash Box. August 28, 1976. p. 18. Retrieved December 11, 2021.
  24. ^ "Single Picks" (PDF). Record World. September 4, 1976. p. 14. Retrieved March 4, 2023.
  25. ^ Elliott, Paul (March 10, 2016). "The 10 Greatest Boston Songs Ever". Classic Rock. Louder Sound. Retrieved June 17, 2022.
  26. ^ "Boston: Feelin' Satisfied". Guitar World. October 2006. Archived from the original on September 27, 2013. Retrieved August 16, 2013.
  27. ^ Evans, P. (2004). Brackett, N.; Hoard, C. (eds.). The Rolling Stone Album Guide (4th ed.). Simon & Schuster. p. 96. ISBN 0743201698.
  28. ^ Kachejian, Brian. "Top 10 Boston Songs". Classic Rock History. Retrieved January 20, 2023.
  29. ^ Swanson, Dave. "No. 28: Boston, 'More Than a Feeling' – Top 100 Classic Rock Songs". Ultimate Classic Rock. Retrieved March 23, 2017.
  30. ^ Kent, David (1993). Australian Chart Book 1970–1992 (illustrated ed.). St Ives, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book. ISBN 0-646-11917-6.
  31. ^ "Radio2 top 30: 8 oktober 2016 | Radio2". Top30-2.radio2.be. Archived from the original on April 9, 2012. Retrieved October 11, 2016.
  32. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling" (in French). Ultratop 50. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  33. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling" (in Dutch). Ultratop 50. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  34. ^ "Top RPM Singles: Issue 5142a." RPM. Library and Archives Canada. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  35. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling" (in German). GfK Entertainment charts. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  36. ^ Oricon Album Chart Book: Complete Edition 1970–2005 (in Japanese). Roppongi, Tokyo: Oricon Entertainment. 2006. ISBN 4-87131-077-9.
  37. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling" (in Dutch). Single Top 100. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  38. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling". Top 40 Singles. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  39. ^ "Boston – More Than a Feeling". Swiss Singles Chart. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  40. ^ "Official Singles Chart Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  41. ^ "Boston Chart History (Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved 17 December 2022.
  42. ^ "Top 100 1976-12-04". Cashbox Magazine. Archived from the original on March 5, 2013. Retrieved March 22, 2015.
  43. ^ "Kent Music Report No 183 – 26 December 1977 > National Top 100 Singles for 1977". Kent Music Report. Retrieved January 14, 2020 – via Imgur.com.
  44. ^ "Item Display - RPM - Library and Archives Canada". Collectionscanada.gc.ca. Archived from the original on March 25, 2014. Retrieved March 25, 2014.
  45. ^ "INFINITY CHARTS: German Top 20". Ki.informatik.uni-wuerzburg.de. January 14, 2000. Archived from the original on August 31, 2004. Retrieved March 25, 2014.
  46. ^ "Cash Box Magazine". January 18, 2013. Archived from the original on January 18, 2013.
  47. ^ "Danish single certifications – Boston – More Than a Feeling". IFPI Danmark. Retrieved February 3, 2022.
  48. ^ "Gold-/Platin-Datenbank (Boston; 'More Than a Feeling')" (in German). Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved March 2, 2023.
  49. ^ "Italian single certifications – Boston – More Than a Feeling" (in Italian). Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana. Retrieved February 3, 2022. Select "2019" in the "Anno" drop-down menu. Type "More Than a Feeling" in the "Filtra" field. Select "Singoli" under "Sezione".
  50. ^ "Spanish single certifications – Boston – More Than a Feeling". El portal de Música. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved April 3, 2024.
  51. ^ "British single certifications – Boston – More Than a Feeling". British Phonographic Industry. April 3, 2020. Retrieved April 3, 2020.
  52. ^ "American single certifications – Boston – More Than a Feeling". Recording Industry Association of America. April 8, 2020. Retrieved April 8, 2020.
  53. ^ Greene, Andy. "Flashback: Nirvana Play a Bit of Boston's 'More Than a Feeling'". Rolling Stone. No. January 29, 2015. Retrieved November 30, 2019.
  54. ^ "'More Than a Feeling'" Writer Says Mike Huckabee Has Caused Him 'Damage'", Rolling Stone website, February 14, 2008.
  55. ^ "Guitar Hero Songs List".
  56. ^ Gaddo, Kyle (February 25, 2011). "Eleven Legacy Rock Band Tracks Getting PRO Upgrades On March 1st". The Gaming Vault. Archived from the original on May 25, 2013. Retrieved November 8, 2012.
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