Can’tcha Say (You Believe in Me) / Still in Love

The Zoo Crew is spinning a classic tonight with "Can’tcha Say (You Believe in Me) / Still in Love" by Boston from their 1986 album Third Stage, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This track, written by Tom Scholz, is a unique blend of two songs seamlessly combined, a creative choice that mirrors the band’s earlier hit "Foreplay/Long Time." Recorded over several years—1981, 1982, and 1983—the song wasn’t released until 1986 due to Scholz’s perfectionist approach and legal battles with Epic Records. It hit #20 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Boston’s last Top 40 hit, and climbed to #7 on the Mainstream Rock chart. According to the Third Stage liner notes, the song explores themes of reunion, with Scholz using his innovative Rockman amplifier to make electric guitars sound like violins, a groundbreaking effect at the time. Critics had mixed takes: Milo Miles from the Boston Phoenix called it tedious with clichéd lyrics like “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” but Cash Box praised Scholz’s guitar work and Brad Delp’s soaring vocals, describing a “rock/choir effect.” Paul Elliott of TeamRock.com ranked it Boston’s 8th greatest song, noting its strength as two AOR gems in one.

Another cool tidbit comes from the vinyl collectors among the Zoo Freaks. A post on X by @TRextasyBand shared excitement about owning a 1980s 12” promo single of the song, highlighting its enduring appeal among fans. The song’s production also stands out: it was the first time Scholz used the Rockman with a ten-band equalizer to shape his guitar sound, adding to its distinctive texture. Los Angeles Times critic Steve Pond lauded the song’s climax, likening it to “a couple dozen guitars” revving up, while Jerry Spangler of the Deseret News called it a “sure-fire winner” ballad. These details make it a perfect pick for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, nostalgic vibe, resonating with listeners who dig deep cuts and the stories behind them.

Boston began as the brainchild of Tom Scholz, born March 10, 1947, in Toledo, Ohio. A rock fan from his teens, Scholz balanced his passion for music with academic rigor, earning a master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. While working at Polaroid, he built a 12-track recording studio in his basement, where he and vocalist Brad Delp crafted demos that caught the attention of Epic Records in 1975. Joined by guitarist Barry Goudreau, bassist Fran Sheehan, and drummer John “Sib” Hashian, the band released their self-titled debut in 1976, which became one of the fastest-selling albums ever, driven by hits like “More Than a Feeling” and “Peace of Mind.” Scholz’s meticulous studio work and innovative gear, like the Rockman, defined Boston’s polished, arena-rock sound. Despite legal battles and lineup changes, Scholz has remained the band’s creative core, delivering music that still captivates Zoo Freaks today.

Stay connected with Boston through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can also dive into dedicated communities like the Boston Band Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and others share memories, vinyl finds, and love for the band’s timeless sound. Whether you’re grooving to “Can’tcha Say” or exploring Boston’s catalog, these platforms keep the spirit of the band alive.