Rock Music

The song "Rock Music" from Jefferson Starship's 1979 album Freedom at Point Zero is a high-energy anthem that captures the band's shift toward a harder-edged, AOR sound. Penned by guitarist Craig Chaquico and lyricist Jeannette Sears, the track features blistering guitar riffs and Mickey Thomas' soaring vocals, which Record World described as "frenetic vocals rip[ping] over roaring guitars." The song's straightforward celebration of rock 'n' roll as "good time music" resonated with fans, reflecting the band's intent to deliver unapologetic, crowd-pleasing rock. In a 2012 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, Chaquico noted that the album's heavier direction was influenced by new drummer Aynsley Dunbar's time with Journey, pushing the band to embrace a more metallic sound. The song's raw energy made it a standout, though it didn't chart as high as the album's lead single, "Jane."

Behind the scenes, "Rock Music" was shaped by the band's tumultuous transition. After Grace Slick and Marty Balin left in 1978, Jefferson Starship was at a crossroads. Producer Ron Nevison, known for working with bands like Heart and Kiss, was brought in to streamline their sound. In a fan discussion on the Jefferson Starship Fans Facebook group, some longtime listeners praised "Rock Music" for retaining Paul Kantner's sci-fi ethos while embracing a modern rock vibe, with its lyrics evoking a futuristic, rebellious spirit. Others noted that saxophonist Steven Schuster's contributions, though subtle, added a unique texture to the track, especially in live performances during the 1979 tour. The song's unpolished, in-your-face style was a deliberate nod to the band's roots, with Kantner's rhythm guitar providing a gritty backbone.

Jefferson Starship evolved from the legendary Jefferson Airplane, a San Francisco psychedelic rock band formed in 1965 by Paul Kantner, Marty Balin, and others. After Jefferson Airplane's peak in the late 1960s with albums like Surrealistic Pillow, Kantner began exploring new directions. In 1970, he released Blows Against the Empire, a solo concept album credited to "Paul Kantner/Jefferson Starship," featuring collaborators like Grace Slick and members of Grateful Dead. This marked the first use of the Jefferson Starship name. By 1974, with Jefferson Airplane disbanded, Kantner, Slick, and David Freiberg officially launched Jefferson Starship, joined by Craig Chaquico, John Barbata, and others. Their debut album, Dragon Fly, went gold, and 1975's Red Octopus hit No. 1, cementing their arena-rock status.

The band's journey was marked by lineup changes and genre shifts, from psychedelic folk to polished AOR. By the time Freedom at Point Zero was recorded, Kantner was the last original Airplane member, steering the band through the departure of Slick and Balin. Mickey Thomas, previously known for his work with Elvin Bishop, brought a bluesy, powerful voice that redefined their sound. You can follow Jefferson Starship on their official Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts for updates on tours and releases. Fans also gather at the Jefferson Starship Fans Facebook group and Starship Control, a dedicated fan site with discographies and tour archives, to share memories and discuss the band's legacy.