Good Work

The song "Good Work" by the BoDeans from their 1989 album Home captures the band's signature roots rock energy, blending heartfelt lyrics with a driving rhythm that resonates with fans. One piece of trivia about the song comes from its recording process, where the band aimed to capture a raw, live feel. They recorded much of the album, including "Good Work," in an abandoned shoe factory in downtown Milwaukee, a space they had previously used for rehearsals. This unconventional setting allowed the band to track most of the songs live, giving "Good Work" its gritty, authentic vibe. The track also features the work of drummer Kenny Aronoff, known for his collaborations with John Mellencamp, whose powerful drumming added a dynamic edge to the song.

Another interesting tidbit about "Good Work" is its connection to the 1989 film The Wizard, where the song appears in the opening scene. This placement helped expose the track to a broader audience, embedding it in the cultural memory of fans who associate it with the movie’s nostalgic charm. In interviews, band founder Kurt Neumann has spoken about the band’s focus on creating music that connects emotionally with listeners, and "Good Work" exemplifies this with its relatable lyrics about perseverance and heart. While the band hasn’t shared specific social media posts about "Good Work," their Facebook and Instagram accounts often highlight their energetic live performances, where songs like "Good Work" continue to ignite crowds.

The BoDeans began in Waukesha, Wisconsin, when Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas met at Waukesha South High School in 1977. Bonded by a shared passion for music, they started writing songs together, drawing inspiration from rock, folk, and heartland sounds. Neumann, initially a drummer, bought a guitar after high school to focus on songwriting, never intending to become a frontman. As he recounted in a quote from the band’s official website, he found himself leading a gig in his basement for his 18th birthday, guitar in hand, marking a pivotal shift. Llanas, meanwhile, briefly attended college but left at Neumann’s urging to pursue music full-time. By 1983, they formed the BoDeans, adding bassist Bob Griffin and drummer Nick Kitsos to complete the lineup.

The band’s big break came in 1985 when they signed with Slash/Warner Records, shortening their name from Da BoDeans at the label’s suggestion. Their debut album, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, released in 1986, earned critical acclaim and a Rolling Stone reader poll win for Best New American Band in 1987. Over the years, the BoDeans have evolved, with Neumann as the sole original member, now joined by musicians like drummer Kenny Aronoff. Their music has left a lasting mark, with a permanent installation at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Midwest Artists exhibit. Fans can connect with the band on their X account, where they share updates about tours and new releases.

For fans looking to dive deeper, the BoDeans’ official website offers a wealth of information, including tour dates and their discography. Their Facebook page is a hub for community engagement, with posts about live shows and fan-driven content like the "Good Things" video project, where fans submitted clips for a social media feature. On Instagram, the band shares behind-the-scenes moments and performance highlights. While there aren’t prominent standalone fan websites, the BoDeans Fans Facebook Group is an active community where Zoo Freaks and other devotees share memories, discuss songs like "Good Work," and celebrate the band’s enduring legacy.