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Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Boston - Walk On (1994)

Boston - Walk On (1994) front coverBoston - Walk On (1994) back cover
 Boston - Walk On (1994)

Boston – Walk On (1994)

Release Date: June 21, 1994
Label: MCA Records
Type: Studio Album
Genre: Rock / Arena Rock / Hard Rock
Length: 56:53
Producer: Tom Scholz

Overview

Walk On is Boston’s fourth studio album, released eight years after Third Stage. This album reflects both continuity and evolution, featuring the signature layered guitar harmonies and soaring vocals the band is known for, while also embracing modern rock production techniques of the early 1990s.

The album is notable for being the first without longtime bassist Fran Sheehan and guitarist Barry Goudreau, with Tom Scholz taking on most instrumental duties. Brad Delp’s vocals continue to shine, anchoring the album with emotional power. Hits like “I Need Your Love” and the title track “Walk On” highlight Boston’s trademark combination of arena-ready hooks and melodic sensibility.

Walk On debuted at #7 on the Billboard 200, confirming Boston’s enduring popularity despite the long hiatus and changing musical landscape.

Tracklist

  1. I Need Your Love – 4:20

  2. Livin’ for You – 4:52

  3. Walk On – 4:24

  4. We Can Make It – 4:25

  5. Magdelene – 5:19

  6. Someone – 4:50

  7. The Launch – 3:56

  8. Higher Power – 4:34

  9. Get Organ-ized – 4:18

  10. Mercy – 4:01

  11. You Gave Up on Love – 4:29

  12. Soul Survivor – 6:25

Fun Facts & Trivia

  • Return After Hiatus: The album came eight years after Third Stage, with Tom Scholz again taking a very hands-on role in recording and production.

  • Instrumental Dominance: Scholz played guitars, bass, keyboards, and even drum programming on much of the album.

  • Title Track: “Walk On” became a fan favorite, often used to open or close live shows in the 1990s.

  • Brad Delp’s Vocals: Delp’s performances remain a highlight, particularly on emotional ballads like “Someone” and “Magdelene.”

  • Did You Know? The song “Soul Survivor” was written as a tribute to people persevering through challenges, reflecting Scholz’s personal and professional struggles.

  • Tour Support: The album was supported by a major tour in 1994–1995, which included arena shows in the U.S. and Europe.

  • Commercial Performance: While not as massive as Boston’s 1970s albums, Walk On was certified Platinum in the U.S.

  • Artwork: The album cover continues the band’s spaceship motif, designed by Tom Scholz, connecting to their classic branding.

Album Credits

Boston:

  • Brad Delp: Lead vocals, backing vocals

  • Tom Scholz: Guitar, bass, keyboards, backing vocals, producer, engineer

  • Sib Hashian: Drums, percussion

Additional Contributions:

  • Session musicians added minor instrumental and backing elements, but Scholz performed the bulk of the music.

Production Team:

  • Producer & Engineer: Tom Scholz

  • Mixing & Mastering: Tom Scholz

Mini Review

Walk On demonstrates Boston’s ability to blend their classic 70s arena rock sound with 90s production sensibilities. Tracks like “I Need Your Love” and “Walk On” highlight Brad Delp’s soaring vocals and Tom Scholz’s meticulous guitar layering. While the album reflects a slightly more polished and modern approach, the emotional depth, melodic hooks, and signature harmonies maintain Boston’s timeless rock identity, appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation.