10 of The Best Bands from Boston - Groovetraveler

About the song

“Smokin’,” the B-side to Boston’s debut single “More Than a Feeling,” isn’t just a throwaway track. It’s a full-fledged rock and roll scorcher that showcases the band’s signature sound – a potent blend of arena-ready riffs, soaring vocals, and meticulous production.

A Collaborative Effort: Unlike many Boston songs penned solely by mastermind Tom Scholz, “Smokin'” is a collaborative effort. Brad Delp, the band’s vocalist, co-wrote the song with Scholz, adding a layer of melodic sensibility to the guitarist’s technical prowess. This early collaboration hints at the band’s dynamic, where Scholz’s technical wizardry met Delp’s catchy melodies.

From Basement to Bonfire: “Smokin'” actually has a fascinating backstory. Early versions of the song, then titled “Shakin’,” were recorded in Scholz’s basement studio in the early 1970s. These recordings showcase a rawer, more experimental sound compared to the polished version that eventually landed on the album. It’s a testament to Scholz’s perfectionism that he continued to refine the song until it became the powerhouse we know today.

Themes of Power and Precision: The song itself is a masterclass in rock and roll construction. The driving guitar riff, layered with intricate harmonies, grabs your attention from the first note. Delp’s vocals soar above the instrumentation, conveying a sense of urgency and excitement. The lyrics, though not overtly complex, speak to the feeling of being “on fire,” both literally and metaphorically. It’s a celebration of raw energy and the power of music to ignite a crowd.

A Cornerstone of Classic Rock: “Smokin'” may not be Boston’s most famous song, but it’s a beloved staple for fans. It’s a perfect example of the band’s ability to balance technical prowess with infectious melodies. With its electrifying energy and tight musicianship, “Smokin'” continues to be a cornerstone of classic rock radio and a testament to the enduring legacy of Boston.

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Lyrics

We’re gonna play you a song, a little bit of rock-n-rollYou gotta let yourself go, the band’s gonna take controlWe’re gettin’ off todayWe’ll pick you up and take you awayGet down tonight
Smokin’, smokin’We’re cookin’ tonight, just keep on tokin’Smokin’, Smokin’I feel alright, mamma I’m not jokin’, yeah
Get your feet to the floor, everybody rock and rollYou’ve got nothing to lose just the rhythm and blues, that’s all, yeahWe’re gonna feel okWe’ll pick you up and take you awayGet down tonight
Smokin’, Smokin’We’re cookin’ tonight, just keep on tokin’Smokin’, Smokin’I feel alright, mamma I’m not jokin’, yeah
Everyone’s jumpin’, dancin’ to the boogie tonightClap your hands, move your feetIf you don’t you know it won’t seem rightWe’re gettin’ off todayWe’ll pick you up and take you awayGet down tonight
We’re gettin’ off todayWe’ll pick you up take you awayGet down tonight, well alright