Hard Luck

The song "Hard Luck" from Barry Goudreau's self-titled 1980 album is a gritty rock anthem that captures the raw energy of his time with Boston, featuring the iconic voice of Brad Delp. In a 2003 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Goudreau shared that the album, including "Hard Luck," was born out of a hiatus from Boston due to legal battles between band leader Tom Scholz and their label. Goudreau had written several songs hoping they’d make it onto Boston’s next record, but Scholz wasn’t interested, prompting Goudreau to channel them into his solo project. The track’s lyrics, like “Hard luck, baby you can never tell / About the service in a wishing well,” reflect a sense of chance and heartbreak, which Goudreau noted resonated with fans for its relatable storytelling. The album’s “Boston sound” caused friction, as Scholz felt the record label’s promotion implied Goudreau was claiming credit for Boston’s signature style, a misunderstanding that contributed to Goudreau’s departure from the band.

Another tidbit about "Hard Luck" comes from its recording process, which brought together Boston bandmates Brad Delp on lead vocals and Sib Hashian on drums, alongside Fran Cosmo, who later joined Boston. According to The Music Museum of New England, the album’s near-Boston lineup led to airplay for tracks like "Hard Luck" and "Dreams," but its modest commercial success didn’t match Boston’s blockbuster albums. Fans on the Boston Rock Band Fan Club Facebook group often praise "Hard Luck" for its driving rhythm and Goudreau’s fiery guitar work, with some calling it a “hidden gem” that could’ve been a Boston hit. The song’s raw edge and themes of romantic misfortune still strike a chord with Zoo Freaks who dig its classic rock vibe.

Barry Goudreau’s journey to rock stardom began in Boston, Massachusetts, where he was born on November 29, 1951. His love for music sparked early, as he recalled in a bio on his official website, standing in the back of his mother’s car, rocking out to Elvis and Roy Orbison. At age 11, his parents borrowed an acoustic guitar from a friend, skeptical he’d stick with it. Goudreau proved them wrong, playing until his “fingers bled,” and by 13, he was in his first band, The Tornadoes. At 15, he joined a group with future Boston drummer Sib Hashian, gigging seven nights a week in Boston’s nightclubs, as noted in a 01907 The Magazine profile. His first public performance was “Jingle Bell Rock” at a church event, a far cry from the arena rock anthems he’d later craft.

Goudreau’s big break came through meeting Tom Scholz at MIT, where Goudreau was studying geology at Boston University. In 1969, they worked on demo tapes with Brad Delp, with Goudreau handling all guitar parts, though early attempts to land a record deal flopped. Scholz’s reworked demos eventually secured a deal with Epic Records, leading to Boston’s 1976 debut, the fastest-selling debut album at the time. Goudreau’s guitar work on tracks like “Foreplay/Long Time” helped define Boston’s sound, but after his 1980 solo album, he left the band amid tensions with Scholz. He later formed Orion the Hunter and RTZ, continuing his legacy in rock.

Fans can connect with Barry Goudreau through his official website and social media, including Facebook and Instagram. His X account is less active but still a spot for updates. The Barry Goudreau’s Engine Room website highlights his latest band, while fan communities thrive on sites like The Band Boston Fan Site and the Boston Rock Band Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can geek out over Goudreau’s riffs and share their love for "Hard Luck."