Back to Paradise

The song Back to Paradise by .38 Special, featured on the Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise soundtrack and their compilation album Flashback: The Best of 38 Special, is a high-energy rock anthem that perfectly captures the fun, escapist vibe of the 1987 film. One piece of trivia about the song is its chart performance: it peaked at #38 on the Radio & Records Pop chart, just missing the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 40. Fans on platforms like the Pulse Music Board have noted its infectious rhythm and how it became synonymous with the movie’s theme of nerdy triumph. The song’s lyrics, co-written by Bryan Adams, Jim Vallance, and Neil Giraldo, evoke a journey to a carefree “promised land,” with lines like “Grab your coat honey, grab your hat / This train is leavin’ an it ain’t comin’ back.” Its music video, available on YouTube, blends live band footage with clips from the film, showcasing the band’s energetic stage presence interspersed with the movie’s comedic moments.

Another interesting tidbit comes from fan discussions on Reddit’s r/hairmetal community, where users praise the song’s nostalgic connection to the 1980s glam metal era, despite .38 Special being more rooted in Southern rock. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it a favorite for fans of the film, who often associate it with the Lambda Lambda Lambda fraternity’s wild adventures in Fort Lauderdale. While specific interviews about the song are scarce, Donnie Van Zant, the band’s lead vocalist, has spoken in broader terms on the band’s Facebook about their goal to create music that “lifts people up,” which aligns with the song’s feel-good, escapist vibe. The Revenge of the Nerds II soundtrack, featuring Back to Paradise, is also celebrated on fan sites like Discogs, where collectors share details about various vinyl releases, including the 7” single with Hang on Loosely on the B-side.

.38 Special was formed in 1974 in Jacksonville, Florida, by Donnie Van Zant, the younger brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Ronnie Van Zant, and guitarist Don Barnes. The band’s early days were marked by a gritty Southern rock sound, influenced by their Jacksonville roots and the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd. According to their bio on their official website, 38special.com, the band started jamming in garages and playing local gigs, honing their craft in the competitive Southern music scene. Their name, inspired by a police report about a .38 Special revolver, reflected their rebellious, blue-collar ethos. By the late 1970s, they signed with A&M Records, and their 1981 album Wild-Eyed Southern Boys, featuring the hit Hold On Loosely, catapulted them to national fame. The band’s blend of Southern rock with melodic, radio-friendly hooks set them apart, paving the way for later successes like Back to Paradise.

You can follow .38 Special on their official social media accounts, including Facebook, where they share tour updates and fan interactions, and Instagram, where they post nostalgic photos and concert highlights. Their X account is active with posts about upcoming shows and fan appreciation. Fans also gather on dedicated spaces like the .38 Special Fans Facebook Group, where enthusiasts share memories, rare photos, and discuss the band’s discography, including Back to Paradise. Another fan-driven site, 38special.com’s fan club section, offers exclusive content and a community for “Zoo Freaks” who still rock out to the band’s timeless hits.