Teresa Spencer
Words by Teresa Spencer
Donnie Van Zant and Don Barnes formed 38 Special in 1974 right here in Jacksonville. Initially rooted in Southern rock, their music evolved into a more arena-rock sound, achieving mainstream success in the 1980s with hits like “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” “Rockin’ into the Night,” and “If I’d Been the One.”
The band’s early years saw them working closely with Lynyrd Skynyrd’s management and gaining exposure by opening for major acts. Their breakthrough came with the 1981 album “Wild-Eyed Southern Boys,” followed by a string of successful releases. They collaborated with Survivor’s Jim Peterik, shaping their signature melodic rock style.
After Don Barnes’ departure in 1987, the band experimented with a more pop-oriented sound, scoring a No. 1 adult contemporary hit with “Second Chance” in 1989. Barnes returned in 1992, and since then, the band has focused on touring. Founding members like Jeff Carlisi and Larry Junstrom eventually departed, with Junstrom passing away in 2019.
After more than five decades together, 38 Special continue to bring their signature blast of Southern Rock to over 100 cities a year. Today, Don Barnes remains the only original member, leading the band alongside Bobby Capps, Gary Moffatt, Barry Dunaway, and Jerry Riggs.
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