.38 Special Tickets

A Journey Through Their Sound

.38 Special's ability to balance rock anthems with infectious melodies and poignant lyrics is what has solidified their place in rock history. They embraced the sound that emerged from the South, taking influences from bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers, but added their own twist. While many bands from the Southern rock scene leaned heavily on the blues, .38 Special mixed in a dash of pop sensibilities and hard rock energy, creating a distinct sound that sets them apart.

From the powerful guitar riffs to soaring vocals, their music combines intricate musicianship with catchy hooks that leave audiences wanting more. Songs like "Hold on Loosely," "Caught Up in You," and "If I’d Been the One" defined the band’s signature style. Their ability to capture emotional depth while still rocking hard is what has endeared them to millions of fans across the globe.

.38 Special Lineup: Past and Present

Like many long-standing rock bands, .38 Special has seen its fair share of lineup changes over the years. The original formation featured Donnie Van Zant (the younger brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd's Ronnie Van Zant), guitarist Don Barnes, Jeff Carlisi, Larry Junstrom, Steve Brookins, and Jack Grondin. However, after several shifts over the years, including Donnie Van Zant's departure in 2013 due to health reasons, the band still boasts a powerhouse lineup.

Current members include:

• Don Barnes (Vocals, Guitar): One of the founding members, Don is the voice behind many of the band’s biggest hits. His guitar work and vocal stylings are integral to the 38 Special sound.
• Bobby Capps (Keyboards, Vocals): A member since the late 1990s, Bobby’s keyboards add an essential layer to the band’s music, offering a rich and dynamic sound. His vocals also lend harmony to many of the band's biggest songs.
• Gary Moffatt (Drums): Known for his incredible precision and energy, Gary has been laying down the beats for 38 Special since 1997.
• Barry Dunaway (Bass, Vocals): Barry joined in the mid-2000s, bringing with him a wealth of experience, including stints with artists like Yngwie Malmsteen.
• Jerry Riggs (Lead Guitar, Vocals): A high-energy performer with a long history in rock music, Jerry's lead guitar solos are a showstopper at every concert.

Despite these changes, the heart and soul of .38 Special have remained intact. Their live performances still radiate the same energy and enthusiasm that put them on the map back in the '70s and '80s.

Albums and Songs that Shaped .38 Special 

Wild-Eyed Southern Boys (1981)

Perhaps the band's most iconic album, Wild-Eyed Southern Boys contains the hit "Hold on Loosely," a song that is as relevant today as it was when it was first released. The album marked the band's rise to national prominence, mixing Southern rock with a polished, radio-friendly sound. The song "Hold on Loosely" became a rock anthem and continues to be a crowd favorite at their live shows.

Special Forces (1982)

This album solidified 38 Special's place in the mainstream rock world. Special Forces features the hit "Caught Up in You," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Rock Tracks chart. The success of this album catapulted the band into the rock elite and is still one of the high points of their catalog.

Tour de Force (1984)

On this album, the band perfected the art of blending melodic rock with their Southern roots. Songs like "If I'd Been the One" and "Back Where You Belong" became instant classics. Tour de Force is packed with memorable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and explosive energy that translates incredibly well in a live setting.

Rockin’ into the Night (1979)

This is the album that started it all for 38 Special. The title track, "Rockin' into the Night," became the band's first major hit and introduced their signature sound to the world. It remains a concert staple to this day, with audiences always clamoring for this Southern rock classic.

Why You Should Catch .38 Special on Tour

While many legacy acts rely heavily on nostalgia, .38 Special brings something unique to their live performances: authenticity. Whether they’re playing an outdoor festival or an intimate theater, their shows have an energy that is unmatched by most bands of their era.

Their current tour promises a mix of classic hits, deep cuts, and plenty of fan interaction. Don Barnes’ vocals remain as strong as ever, and the band’s musicianship is top-notch. What’s special about a .38 Special concert is how they engage the crowd, transforming the night into an unforgettable experience filled with sing-alongs, powerful solos, and tight-knit harmonies. Seeing .38 Special live is not just about reliving the past—it’s about celebrating the power of rock music in its purest form.

The band still tours extensively across the United States, and whether you’re in a massive amphitheater or a cozy venue, they’ll make you feel like you’re part of something much larger than yourself. With decades of experience under their belts, .38 Special has perfected the art of live performance, delivering shows that are filled with passion, excitement, and musicianship. If you're a fan of Southern rock, classic rock, or just great live music, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

Convincing You to Attend a .38 Special Show

There's something magical about hearing those timeless hits played live. Songs like "Hold on Loosely" or "Caught Up in You" take on a whole new life when performed in front of a crowd. The energy, the spontaneity, the communal experience of thousands of voices singing in unison—there’s nothing like it. Attending a .38 Special concert isn’t just about music; it’s about being part of a community that spans generations.

If you’re on the fence about buying tickets, consider this: you won’t just be attending a concert. You’ll be part of rock history. You’ll witness some of the most enduring and iconic songs performed by the very band that made them famous.

When you go to a .38 Special show, you’re not just getting a concert—you’re getting an experience. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the band’s legacy and their impact on the world of rock music.

Frequently Asked Questions About Attending a .38 Special Concert

How long does a typical .38 Special concert last?
Most .38 Special concerts last around 90 minutes to two hours, including encores. They usually perform around 15 to 20 songs, mixing hits with a few deeper cuts.

Will they play all their classic hits?
Yes! You can expect to hear iconic tracks like "Hold on Loosely," "Caught Up in You," "If I'd Been the One," and "Rockin' into the Night" at every show.

Is there an opening act?
.38 Special sometimes tours with opening acts, usually other Southern rock or classic rock bands. Be sure to check your local venue for details.

What is the crowd like at a .38 Special concert?
The audience at a .38 Special concert is diverse, with long-time fans from the '70s and '80s mixed with younger generations discovering the band. Expect a friendly, enthusiastic crowd.

What should I wear to the concert?
Wear something comfortable! Southern rock concerts tend to be laid-back and casual, but you can never go wrong with a band tee and jeans.

Will there be merchandise available?
Yes, .38 Special concerts often have merchandise stands selling band T-shirts, hats, and sometimes even signed memorabilia.

Are cameras allowed at the show?
Most venues allow phones and small cameras, but professional photography equipment is usually prohibited. Check the venue’s policy in advance.

Is the concert family-friendly?
Absolutely. 38 Special concerts are known for their positive energy and are suitable for all ages, though the volume might be a bit loud for younger kids.

How interactive is the band with the audience?
.38 Special loves interacting with the crowd. They frequently engage the audience between songs, encouraging sing-alongs and sharing stories from their decades-long career.

Do they do meet-and-greets?
It depends on the tour, but .38 Special occasionally offers meet-and-greet opportunities through VIP packages. Be sure to check your venue’s options when purchasing tickets.

.38 Special remains one of the quintessential Southern rock bands, and their live performances are nothing short of electrifying. If you love rock music that moves your soul and makes you feel alive, there’s no better place to be than at a .38 Special concert. Grab your tickets, and get ready to rock!