A true story worth telling: I was a senior in high school when this song came out and it quickly became one of my favorites. Anyway, I went on to college and one night at a party this song was playing. Also at the party was a kid I recognized from another high school in my area, Danny Marhanka. I knew him because he was not only a wrestler, like I was, but an outstanding one - I believe even a state champion. I struck up a conversation with him and learned this song was one of his favorites too. He told me he would listen to it to get fired up before wrestling matches, it was his anthem. He could have been arrogant given his accomplishments but he was instead incredibly nice to me. I later learned Danny would go on to be a Captain in the USAF. I also learned that in 1998, while engaged to be married, he died in a snowmobile accident. So, consider the lyrics of "Last Chance" for a moment and this story. I will always think of him when I hear this song; the kid who shared my first name, was born within weeks of me, also wrestled (but far better) and loved this song too. And I will always wonder why his life was tragically cut short while mine goes on.
Believe it or not, I was on that wrestling team with Danny. Riverview Gardens High School. Near North County St Louis MO. Class of 1980. I was best friends with a girl who was madly in love with him. Yes, he was an amazing person and wrestler. State champ 119 pounds 1980. We weren't best friends but our wrestling team that year had 9 seniors on varsity and we were TIGHT. You have made my day. I remember clearly being at his wake after the dreaded accident. Another wrestler was with him when the accident occurred and he gave me a few sordid details. Northwestern Canada,I believe. What a great guy and a true friend of mine. Shooting Star originated, I believe, in Kansas City. I saw them at the Fieldhouse on the campus of UMROLLA right when Last Chance came out. Sad story about Danny Marhanka brings a sad smile to my face.
I hope this song doesn't break your heart when you hear it. I also hope it reminds you of a wonderful friend. So sorry for your loss and to those who knew and loved him.
One of the greatest Rock songs ever. Criminally underrated. Gary West was one of the greatest singers of his time. Van McLain (R.I.P.) was a great guitarist and good 2nd singer. Great band out of Kansas City MO.
They lived in Lenexa, a suburb of Kansas City. Went to Shawnee Mission High School. They are from the Kansas side of the city. (no matter what google says)
An incredible little-known Prog Rock gem from a band who never got the recognition they deserved. I was fortunate enough to see them warm up for Triumph in the fall of '80 in Portland, OR.
Definitely not prog by any means it's aor rock heard these guys on Rochester NY rock stations they were ignored in buffalo really gug this and the 2nd album
Me too in 12 th grade gave me inspiration to write songs for our band. They never liked any of my songs. They only wanted to play Zeppelin or Black Sabbath
For a brief period in the (very) early 80s four songs off Shooting Star's s/t debut were FM standards: this, "you got what I need", "bring it on" and "tonight". ("Midnight man" should have been as well...)
@@l.salisbury1253 ... agree, and don't forget about the album 'Hang On For Your Life' that was a great one with a few tunes with big radio play as well! Peace! \,,/
@@user-cs6up8eq7s thanks for the correction.. I hope you got to see them live because they were like all bands of that era sounded just like the record..
This is one of THE most bombastic rock songs of its era. Growing up in St. Louis, Mo. I would hear this song on KSHE-95 and no matter what I was doing or going, I always air drummed the hell out of this song!! Shooting Star shoulda been bigger! Love them still!!
In 1983 I got a job at Sheraton palace hotel in downtown San Francisco after my first night of work 11 to 7am shift I saw a poster of shooting star concert that night at a club held 400 people in embarcadero 10 min walk from hotel my trainer says meet me at hotel 7pm he clocked us in walked to club he had two tickets I'm a long haired rocker he's a Jamaican drummer we had the best time just being throughly blown away at this band. Inspired me to move to LA and became a stage and road crew manager at TASCO SOUND. With many of stories and living the best life I can. Ty ziggy
@@reneechristopher2121 just keeping the pedal down trudging across this country driving a 18wheeler. Life is good. At 63 it's not as easy to reinvent yourself as past time but understanding I have lived a privilege life done mostly all I have wanted. Simple things like riding my Harleys visiting friends getting out doors with nature and understanding how many things had to go exactly right just to be here texting with you and how everything and everyone is connected. Sometimes I think I was born 200yeasr to early I had no complaints before I was born I'm sure I'll have none when I'm dead lol. Only reason I have a past is calld a memory. Thanks for checking in. Hope the day finds you well and smiling. Music is a language everyone understands it's emotional that is why some songs are better than others and I love all kinds. Peace my frend and may the force be with you
I was 19 when this song hit the radio (WRIF) in Detroit Michigan. Breakout and a couple other tunes were getting air time, this one in particular. However... it wasn't an easy album to find. I ended up finding 'Hang On For Your Life' at a album/record show. Back in those days I played guitar in a band, and almost 57 years of life now I still play and play these tunes off the CD. The album I framed and is on my wall. At the time my band played 'Breakout' and 'One My Side'. Never did get the chance to see them live. I guess why I wrote this is because my girlfriend always seems to want to live in the past and future never in the now. She gets all F'n bottled up and I've always said to her "you could be dead tomorrow, today may be your last chance." She started that shit today and I said it to her again. She asked me "where did I get the few lines that I always say to her" and what's said in these lyrics. I played this tune for her today! Will she understand, will she realize.. who knows? But this songs lyrics and others that Shooting Star made always stuck with me almost 37 years later. A great band that really never didn't get the recognition that was deserved. Thanks for the bad ass tunes Shooting Star and inspiring words to live by. I just felt I had to write this comment! If one reads it.. "thank you!" And remember.. "you could be dead tomorrow. Cherish each day you wake up no matter what life throws at you. Today may be you last chance! \,,/
J Nimitz, they are still together as a band and have their own website! ShootingStar.com They are playing at River City Casino in St. Louis on April 17th! We're HUGE fans, saw them at the KSHE 2019 Pig Roast and have front row seats to see them at River City.
This song is the greatest song that nobody has ever heard in the history of rock and roll. I was fortunate enough to have a friendship with the guitar player Van McLean. Our dad's ate breakfast together everyday for about 12 years
This has to be one of the all time best Rock songs ever. I remember hearing them on 98.5 KOME Radio in San Jose CA all through the early 80's, and even as a 10 year old boy, I appreciated how awesome these guys were. I can think of no other band that comes to mind that would qualify as as an under-rated band than these guys. Not even ZEBRA or Badlands are as "hidden" from the public's concious as these guys were. What great memories! Thank God for RUclips to keep wonderful music alive like this!
I also listened to this song growing up in San Jose and it was one of my favorites. I bought the cassette and listened to it every day cuz I played the drums and loved the fills in the middle. Great song and composed brilliantly 👏
This Band (Original Band) Ruled Our World and Kansas City Pride forever. They are friends and Kings here in my City. This album was the VERY FIRST American Band on Virgin, and was recorded in England... They all DESERVE a Great Deal of RESPECT!
One of the best concerts I have ever seen was Shooting Star opening for Kansas and was the last Stadium Seating event in Columbia Mo Awesome Awesome Show
They did deserve more respect. But it was the fact they signed with Virgin in the first place that caused them problems. Virgin did not have a great A&R team in the US. And when this album came along, most of the radio programming folks thought they were British when in fact they were from KC. The AOR FM stations didn't give a rip and played them anyway because it was great. The fact 1 of the songs even charted from this album was a miracle. Fortunately, Virgin let CBS/Epic handle the next release and "Hollywood" got big airplay as a result. They will never be forgotten because every year when Classic Rock stations do their all time Top 100 songs, "Last Chance" is always there every single time.
@@edwalenigroup2976 Never mind the fact that A&M and Atlantic were interested in signing Shooting Star also. Virgin, at that time, had no clue how to market US rock bands during that early period.
Had Shooting Star play at one of my and a friends field keg parties with Missouri and the Rainmakers. We had about a thousand people there. It was awesome. As was most of the 80s. We tripped on purple micro dot and burned lots of weed together.
It was a tom-tom roll-down, with an extra beat added, then a 2-tympani 'solo', then another tom-tom roll-down, on the lower toms, with an extra beat. Cymbal crashes interspersed.
I'm from the Kansas City area and I remember this band coming up and how great they are. Good musicians and great vocals with a lot of energy. Great song.
I just don't understand why shooting star wasn't a top band. I've seen them twice, they killed it. Last chance and Hollywood should have taken them to the top. Just don't understand
The " Drums " in The Middle of This Song Reminds me of Bombs & Bullets My " Last Chance to Stay Alive. Sincerely, Sundown from Detroit, Michigan U.S.A.
They are still touring. Saw them tonight in St. Louis, every song they played was fantastic. Were always big in the Midwest, since they are from KC, but never broke as big as they deserved.
ITS ALL CORRECT NOW! :) *edit done* When the stranger came to town All the people watched with wonder In their tattered clothes Gathered 'round and raised their eyes up from the dirt And the stranger said to them I have been upon the mountain I have witnessed forces like cannons That can ram you to the ground Stand up on your feet 'Cause your life is short as hell You could be dead tomorrow Today may be your last chance To believe in yourself Your last chance to yell Your last chance To be good to yourself Your last chance To drink from life's well In the crowd a voice was heard Should you get them before They get you? Should we strike the first blow? He said No No No, you don't understand. The enemy is in your heart self respect robbed by self pity, Look across the country All the people with their dreams Dead in their hearts. Stand up on your feet 'Cause your life is short as hell You could be dead tomorrow Today may be your last chance To believe in yourself Your last chance to yell Your last chance To be good to yourself Your last chance To drink from life's well And drink from the well Oh yeah It could be your last chance To believe in yourself Your last chance to yell Your last chance To be good to yourself Your last chance To drink from life's well Drink from the well Oh yeah Drink from the well.... *couldn't find the lyrics comment... :P*
One of my favorite songs by Shooting Star: ruclips.net/video/zJ7P0eswtdI/видео.html Hollywood Shooting Star She grew up reading every magazine Of rags to riches worlds She lost her heart to do the American dream Of Hollywood She used to dream about love Her youth was lived out like on a stage She left the boring world she knew at home And made her star struck way But something there was lost along the road To Hollywood She used to dream about love Her youth was lived out like on a stage But these days she hits the strip tonight All the names in lights, and the games to play She speeds around and drives uptown And pulls out all the stops, she'll hit the top someday Loves New York and California nights And the glamor life of the celluloid stage She takes advantage of her long blond hair Lord I know it's so damn true We used to sit and talk she'd hold my hand She'd hold my hand She used to love me I used to love her gentle ways But these days she hits the strip at night All the names in lights, and the games to play She speeds around and drives uptown And pulls out all the stops She'll hit the top someday, someday She's got the face and the lips and the legs That fit mid-America's apple pie ways Sells herself to the producer's couch Feeling down and out on the streets of L.A. And while she's down she's fun to walk on Until she's dead, they all wonder why The applause is not for her but for the silver screen And manufactured dreams to make you cry So come on give us one more, come on, one more time Before the hitting the bars on the boulevard And never fear everyone's a star in Hollywood She used to dream about love Her youth was lived out like on a stage
Epic words, and words to live by. Just as I commented today about this tune. I scrolled down and saw your great addition to this post. Thanks.. I never really knew all the words. Songs even better now! lol. :)
+Orville Williams I saw them at Kiel Opera House---I've been to a TON of concerts over the years and their concert at Kiel is easily somewhere in my Top 5.
I don't remember where our seats were but I do still have the ticket stub---packed away somewhere. I saved all of my ticket stubs over the years---don't really know why....lol I'm sure we were at the same concert!!
+Janine McCartney, I save mine, too. Do you know that people want to buy them? I see ads in a local paper. I'm keeping my memories. Some of the guitar picks and backstage passes I've saved are autographed. I even have an autographed guitar. That's my life, not some loser's in a basement. ;-)
Saw them on Senior Night in 1983 at Six Flags over mid america. I was a recent graduate of the class of 83'. Went there with a hodge podge of High School bus. My dad's 1981 malibu station wagon. Had a cigarette outlet adaptor plugged into my boom box in the back seat. We listened to a Van Halen interview I recorded for part of the trip. The park was open till4am and I knew all of the songs. Stood on my seat singing along and nodding and grinning to my good friend Jeff whom I call the walkin',talkin' encyclopedia of rock & roll. We had a different slightly group of return peeps on the ride home. This was a launching point of my life in a way. Finally I remember hearing the roar of the Screamin Eagle & looking up at those beautiful May stars. Probably the best concert experience of my entire life. I am 55 now and Jeff hello dude what's up.
ah, takes me way back. listening to this now, I can hear traces of Kansas, Triumph - maybe a little UFO and some Edgar Winter... great production. thanks for posting
@MetallicBill ... I have all UFO albums and what I could find on CD.The UFO album that's blue with the chrome balls all over it was so far ahead of its time. i think it was UFO, UFO. Those tunes could of came out today and been big hits!!! A killer LP.
This was played on WBLM as they are doing their annual A to Z.. ( takes em about 3 weeks to go through, and you get some wicked deep stuff).. this is a great rip!
Man, you know they feeling you get when listening to a deep masterpiece of a song? I'm in that zone right now with this song. It doesn't get much better than this. Wonderful!
The first time I heard this song was in 1985, when the classic rock radio station in my area started playing it frequently. I thought is was a new song, and when I went to the local music store hoping to buy a copy if the album, I was told that the record was six years old, and out of print. They also said that maybe they just happened to find a copy st the radio station, and started playing it. Eventually they released "Touch Me Tonight, The Best of Shooting Star, and it has this song on it.
I live my life to this song.. today may be your last chance... so drink from life's well... one of the best songs ever written... your life is short as hell.. you could be dead tomorrow.....
Ahhhh - found it! I've been looking for this song for ages - couldn't recall enough of it from my hazy high school years until it came to me today - "Last Chance" - of course. Can't believe that this gem is not included in 2 of today's colossal song databases google play or spotify - not sure about apple play.
I just found "Last Chance" on iTunes (buying it now). I'm doing it on the phone, b/c it's always signed into iTunes. I saw one album of theirs. The computer screen may be more me-friendly searching iTunes. I'll do it in the morning.
I just found "Hang on for your Life" (the whole album) on iTunes. The songs are still .99 cents. "Buying Flesh and Blood," too. I doubt my old cassettes are in decent shape after 35 years.
thank you guys for all of your great songs and the memories with you and the secrets and the gary charleston band. special thanks to mike wagner. i enjoyed rodeing for you all. good times and great memories
I was following the band HEART in the 80’s and they were the opening act for several shows… Gary’s vocals were amazing… Steve on the drums inspired me … such a great band!!! One of my favorites!!😎
Saw them do this live in the early 80s. The electric violin is wonderful. Yeah, I'm old(er) and I still love these guys. The violin solo was jaw-dropping.
Ah, Shooting Star. Great memories indeed with this one. Came on the radio late one night while out driving, man, life took on a new meaning doing like 85 to this tune and wondering how everything was gonna turn out in the future. You listen to it and all these things flash in your mind, but the message is clear it could be your last chance so take every minute as a gift and dont think so much! Another killer band from this era that also got screwed was Prophet, look up "Everything You Are."
I agree with awakened won; it shows there are a lot of people that don't appreciate good music I'd like to include Kansas, who's violin player is a music professor at KU. But I'm with you all the way
@@jrgoflo omg!!! Worked at the Hayloft in the early 80's when Colin Traynor owned it. It was total country. Had a load of fun, met a lot of great people and made loads of money. Great times
This Band Should Be up There with Kansas , Styx Journey boston REO etc... They dont have any weak spots. I am from Kc, But i a telling u their songs were on every station from LA To Norfolk and top of charts. I think they need a Salesman Like Me to Promote them , After all i did get one of my bands songs sold to wad productions (sony) and a Movie Soundtrack, and they are not 10% as Good as Shooting Star
Ron Ragan Jr They are as good as the others as far as we’re concerned... Lived near Paseo High growing up but found them when I was in the Army in ‘74-75.. 🤘 Rock On!
Wow... Just one of the many bands from back then that brings back SO many memories! KickASS tune. I can remember playing this on the home 'stereo' before my then wife and I left for work the afternoon of 9/11/01...Memories.............
I think the entire band was underrated. It's hard to believe that they were rarely if ever heard of by so many people because they put out a lot of good rock and roll songs they put out a lot of good heartfelt songs if you really listen to the words
The first song I heard from them was Hollywood remember that song that's how I got introduced to shooting star great band of all time not recognized enough
Hey Rainmaker690, I'm 48 and was a part of the music scene in the late 70's through the mid 90's. They did play this a lot, just seems like they played it at night and late night. I miss the Ritz, Main Act, New York New York, now the new NY NY is out by my house. 23 mile and baker in Chesterfield toward New Baltimore.
My first concert at Cobo was Molly Hatchet & 707---around the same year (1981-ish)!! A few months or so later I moved to St. Louis and saw Shooting Star. What a great band!!
I love FLESH AND BLOOD exellent song. By the way in 1983 i went to summer jam cocert in Boulder Colorado. The line up was 707, Rainbow,Ted Nugent, Scorpions and Reo Speedwagon. At Folsom Field. Ted suppossedly made the guiness book that day.
Motor City Man Yeah man it was a day i will never forget. I went with my 2 room mates and best friends from high school may they both rest in peace. Sadly they are gone. Anytime i get to feeling down i just play a few favorite songs and then i read some of the comments and i start feeling real good. Best medicine ever. Thanks for your comment. Take care.
Видеоклипы
This song, in my opinion, is one of the most under-rated rock songs ever.
+DONGOE There a lot of songs and artist back then that fell through the cracks, that never got the credit they deserved
absolutely
Gilbert Menendez i concur
First concert I ever saw. Max Webster opened for Shooting Star who opened for Molly Hatchet.
M. Black -- Great concert.
A true story worth telling: I was a senior in high school when this song came out and it quickly became one of my favorites. Anyway, I went on to college and one night at a party this song was playing. Also at the party was a kid I recognized from another high school in my area, Danny Marhanka. I knew him because he was not only a wrestler, like I was, but an outstanding one - I believe even a state champion. I struck up a conversation with him and learned this song was one of his favorites too. He told me he would listen to it to get fired up before wrestling matches, it was his anthem. He could have been arrogant given his accomplishments but he was instead incredibly nice to me. I later learned Danny would go on to be a Captain in the USAF. I also learned that in 1998, while engaged to be married, he died in a snowmobile accident. So, consider the lyrics of "Last Chance" for a moment and this story. I will always think of him when I hear this song; the kid who shared my first name, was born within weeks of me, also wrestled (but far better) and loved this song too. And I will always wonder why his life was tragically cut short while mine goes on.
Damn........tragic. Sad story man.
Believe it or not, I was on that wrestling team with Danny. Riverview Gardens High School. Near North County St Louis MO. Class of 1980. I was best friends with a girl who was madly in love with him. Yes, he was an amazing person and wrestler. State champ 119 pounds 1980. We weren't best friends but our wrestling team that year had 9 seniors on varsity and we were TIGHT. You have made my day. I remember clearly being at his wake after the dreaded accident. Another wrestler was with him when the accident occurred and he gave me a few sordid details. Northwestern Canada,I believe. What a great guy and a true friend of mine. Shooting Star originated, I believe, in Kansas City. I saw them at the Fieldhouse on the campus of UMROLLA right when Last Chance came out. Sad story about Danny Marhanka brings a sad smile to my face.
Thx for sharing sounds too visceral to be made up if this song sux I appreciate this comment
I hope this song doesn't break your heart when you hear it. I also hope it reminds you of a wonderful friend. So sorry for your loss and to those who knew and loved him.
Good story. Our live"s are short as hell.
Shooting Star, Zebra, April Wine...how the hell were these bands not more popular????
Totally concur. Especially Shooting Star and April Wine. I'd like to throw in the Georgia Satellites and the Screaming Blue Messiahs.
Add Triumph, 707 and The Rockets
Steve Reeves They were, back in the day.
***** Especially April Wine! I saw them on The Nature of The Beast tour and they blew doors!
skok58 Oowatanite. Always loved their choice to incorporate the sound of railroad crossing bells into the song :P
most underrated band in history.
I would have to agree!
One of the greatest Rock songs ever. Criminally underrated. Gary West was one of the greatest singers of his time. Van McLain (R.I.P.) was a great guitarist and good 2nd singer. Great band out of Kansas City MO.
They lived in Lenexa, a suburb of Kansas City. Went to Shawnee Mission High School. They are from the Kansas side of the city. (no matter what google says)
Im from St. Louis and they were huge in the Lou. KSHE 95 always supported this band . Hometown boys from Missouri ✨🍻
@@yabo2424 actually they are from Lenexa Kansas
Ive been a big fan of shooting star since I was young. Yes St. Louis made this band big K-she '95 blew this band up to.
Loved these guys - and Kansas band itself. Can anybody name the common link?
An incredible little-known Prog Rock gem from a band who never got the recognition they deserved. I was fortunate enough to see them warm up for Triumph in the fall of '80 in Portland, OR.
Triumph too? Another great underappreciated band! I'm from Portland and missed it. The 80's were a train wreck for me. Glad you got to go!
Saw them in Cincinnati
They are going to be in Indep Mo at the santacaligon this year
Definitely not prog by any means it's aor rock heard these guys on Rochester NY rock stations they were ignored in buffalo really gug this and the 2nd album
Me too in 12 th grade gave me inspiration to write songs for our band. They never liked any of my songs. They only wanted to play Zeppelin or Black Sabbath
This song has to be one of the best rock songs that no one's heard.
For a brief period in the (very) early 80s four songs off Shooting Star's s/t debut were FM standards: this, "you got what I need", "bring it on" and "tonight". ("Midnight man" should have been as well...)
absolutely!! Along with Triumph songs
@@l.salisbury1253 ... agree, and don't forget about the album 'Hang On For Your Life' that was a great one with a few tunes with big radio play as well! Peace! \,,/
L. Salisbury,
“Are You On My Side” also got airplay, in Los Angeles.
Edit: So did “Breakout,” which might be my favorite of theirs.
If you were around Kansas City area in the 80s, you knew who Shooting Star was!
This song is 42 years old..sounds better than ever.. you have to listen to it on headphones.. i couldn't appreciate the lyrics till now..
44 the song was released in the fall of 79
@@user-cs6up8eq7s thanks for the correction.. I hope you got to see them live because they were like all bands of that era sounded just like the record..
Love it !!!
One of the most under-rated songs in rock and roll
... agree, and bands in rock and roll! \,,/
i concur with your assessment sir
As many people have commented, this is a hidden masterpiece by a very underrated band.
........ TOTALLY. \,,/
This is one of THE most bombastic rock songs of its era. Growing up in St. Louis, Mo. I would hear this song on KSHE-95 and no matter what I was doing or going, I always air drummed the hell out of this song!! Shooting Star shoulda been bigger! Love them still!!
My dad knew the violin player. He sent us a CD one time. Never knew how popular they got but seems like people remember them.
IMO one of the greatest Rock songs of all time.
Agreed
RIP Van McLain March 3, 2018. Your music lives on forever. One of the best bands that was not heard by enough people. Sad day in rock and roll.
He was awesome
grew up listening on k she 95 in St Louis. this band rocked.
Van McLain
kdrew What happened to him?
... bummer to hear this. : (.....
In 1983 I got a job at Sheraton palace hotel in downtown San Francisco after my first night of work 11 to 7am shift I saw a poster of shooting star concert that night at a club held 400 people in embarcadero 10 min walk from hotel my trainer says meet me at hotel 7pm he clocked us in walked to club he had two tickets I'm a long haired rocker he's a Jamaican drummer we had the best time just being throughly blown away at this band. Inspired me to move to LA and became a stage and road crew manager at TASCO SOUND. With many of stories and living the best life I can. Ty ziggy
Are you still living your best life?❤❤😊😊
@@reneechristopher2121 just keeping the pedal down trudging across this country driving a 18wheeler. Life is good. At 63 it's not as easy to reinvent yourself as past time but understanding I have lived a privilege life done mostly all I have wanted. Simple things like riding my Harleys visiting friends getting out doors with nature and understanding how many things had to go exactly right just to be here texting with you and how everything and everyone is connected. Sometimes I think I was born 200yeasr to early I had no complaints before I was born I'm sure I'll have none when I'm dead lol. Only reason I have a past is calld a memory. Thanks for checking in. Hope the day finds you well and smiling. Music is a language everyone understands it's emotional that is why some songs are better than others and I love all kinds. Peace my frend and may the force be with you
@@reneechristopher2121 yes how about yourself. Traveling around this country driving an 18wheeler
@@eddiehayes1507 I'm doing great. Teaching myself to play the keyboards, writing songs. So, you're into rock music?
Me and my buddy use to listen to this every day , several times driving to Hockey practice in High School!!!! Air drumming the entire time!!!! 1981
Great song still in 2019
... totally agree, i'm still listening bro... almost 2020
great song in 2021
I was 19 when this song hit the radio (WRIF) in Detroit Michigan. Breakout and a couple other tunes were getting air time, this one in particular. However... it wasn't an easy album to find. I ended up finding 'Hang On For Your Life' at a album/record show. Back in those days I played guitar in a band, and almost 57 years of life now I still play and play these tunes off the CD. The album I framed and is on my wall. At the time my band played 'Breakout' and 'One My Side'. Never did get the chance to see them live. I guess why I wrote this is because my girlfriend always seems to want to live in the past and future never in the now. She gets all F'n bottled up and I've always said to her "you could be dead tomorrow, today may be your last chance." She started that shit today and I said it to her again. She asked me "where did I get the few lines that I always say to her" and what's said in these lyrics. I played this tune for her today! Will she understand, will she realize.. who knows? But this songs lyrics and others that Shooting Star made always stuck with me almost 37 years later. A great band that really never didn't get the recognition that was deserved. Thanks for the bad ass tunes Shooting Star and inspiring words to live by. I just felt I had to write this comment! If one reads it.. "thank you!" And remember.. "you could be dead tomorrow. Cherish each day you wake up no matter what life throws at you. Today may be you last chance! \,,/
Well said!
J Nimitz, they are still together as a band and have their own website! ShootingStar.com They are playing at River City Casino in St. Louis on April 17th! We're HUGE fans, saw them at the KSHE 2019 Pig Roast and have front row seats to see them at River City.
Brings back good memories when local radio station WRIF actually played great rock and roll here in Detroit.
+Keith Bartholomew just like WBCN in Boston back in the day!
Anyone remember CJOM 88FM from Canada or WABX 99,5 from Michigan
or WWWW....best of the 60s 70s rock..
Yep i heard this on WRIF back in the day also the Kings Switching to glide
DETROIT AUDIENCES ARE THE GREATEST AUDIENCES IN THE WORLD
(BOB SEGER IN ROLLING STONE MAGAZINE )
Well isnt this nice?
I found me a few from Detroit as I was. ABX, WRIF and W4. The good ol' days of rock and roll.
This song is the greatest song that nobody has ever heard in the history of rock and roll. I was fortunate enough to have a friendship with the guitar player Van McLean. Our dad's ate breakfast together everyday for about 12 years
I know I'm 12 yrs old right now. But when my parents put this on, I was so amazed. I love this song!
Jeremiah Creech yeah buddy! This song rips and I was 17 yrs old when it came out!
So do i and im 53
Good on you Jeremiah. The 80's was a goldmine for great Rock music. Explore it and enjoy.
..... great parents you have my boy!!!! \,,/
Smart kid man
Most underrated....
Don't care. It just FUCKING ROCKS.🤟🇺🇸🎸🍻
I love this song! What a brilliant collaboration of vocals and instrumentation. So well executed. And the message is relevant, and needed.
Late 90s and I love them since great they are a great band that has not been recognized I heard a song Hollywood and I fell in love with the band
Have you heard the song train rolls on from shooting star
The writing of this song is outstanding with fantastic imagination.
This has to be one of the all time best Rock songs ever. I remember hearing them on 98.5 KOME Radio in San Jose CA all through the early 80's, and even as a 10 year old boy, I appreciated how awesome these guys were. I can think of no other band that comes to mind that would qualify as as an under-rated band than these guys. Not even ZEBRA or Badlands are as "hidden" from the public's concious as these guys were. What great memories! Thank God for RUclips to keep wonderful music alive like this!
"
The KOME stain on your dial"
I also listened to this song growing up in San Jose and it was one of my favorites. I bought the cassette and listened to it every day cuz I played the drums and loved the fills in the middle. Great song and composed brilliantly 👏
Still rocking a KOME shirt
@@eyepatch3769 I need to look for one on the Internet... :)
damn!! a radio station from my high school years…..i wish i had a KOME sticker.
I have no idea how I have missed this band. I just heard this song on KSHE 95, and it blew me away.
Oh the f**KING memories this song brings back to me !!! Awesome.
... same here man!!! \,,/
Who are the 53 Justin Beiber fans who gave this song a thumbs down?
They prolly gunna vote for Hillary too.
I saw them open for Todd Rundgren probably in 1981 always been one of my favorites
Most underrated rock song!
..... and others they did.... if I may be so bold bro! ;) \,,/
I hear a lot of Kansas in their prime in this one as well. Hell of a song
@@masaminakahashi4481 I have always said that.
This Band (Original Band) Ruled Our World and Kansas City Pride forever. They are friends and Kings here in my City. This album was the VERY FIRST American Band on Virgin, and was recorded in England... They all DESERVE a Great Deal of RESPECT!
My father passed down the legend of Shooting Star to me as a Kansas City native and as long as I remember this song, their epic legacy will live on 🤟🤟
One of the best concerts I have ever seen was Shooting Star opening for Kansas and was the last Stadium Seating event in Columbia Mo
Awesome Awesome Show
... amen to this brother. They ruled Detroit's radio waves for sometime as well. Good comment,, I didn't know these 'bits of info'. \,,/
They did deserve more respect. But it was the fact they signed with Virgin in the first place that caused them problems. Virgin did not have a great A&R team in the US. And when this album came along, most of the radio programming folks thought they were British when in fact they were from KC. The AOR FM stations didn't give a rip and played them anyway because it was great. The fact 1 of the songs even charted from this album was a miracle. Fortunately, Virgin let CBS/Epic handle the next release and "Hollywood" got big airplay as a result. They will never be forgotten because every year when Classic Rock stations do their all time Top 100 songs, "Last Chance" is always there every single time.
@@edwalenigroup2976 Never mind the fact that A&M and Atlantic were interested in signing Shooting Star also. Virgin, at that time, had no clue how to market US rock bands during that early period.
They had the most amazing drum fill I have ever heard in the middle of the song. I have tried to duplicate it, never have--amazing!
... same for me on guitar. The riff'z and his sound. I have tried many times! \,,/
Timpani drums overdubbing the drum kit floor toms. Sounds epic.
My cousin could do it..he loved them
Props to your cousin jeffcarr8091👍👍
Had Shooting Star play at one of my and a friends field keg parties with Missouri and the Rainmakers. We had about a thousand people there. It was awesome. As was most of the 80s. We tripped on purple micro dot and burned lots of weed together.
One of the greatest headphone songs of all time, if you don't 'air drum roll' during this song you are not alive!
4:36 starts the best in-song drum solo roll ever and the random cymbal crash at 4:44 has always seemed like a perfect addition to said best drum roll.
It was a tom-tom roll-down, with an extra beat added, then a 2-tympani 'solo', then another tom-tom roll-down, on the lower toms, with an extra beat. Cymbal crashes interspersed.
@@leematthews7755 .. thanks for the breakdown bro, awesome! ; )
I'm from the Kansas City area and I remember this band coming up and how great they are. Good musicians and great vocals with a lot of energy. Great song.
I just don't understand why shooting star wasn't a top band. I've seen them twice, they killed it. Last chance and Hollywood should have taken them to the top. Just don't understand
Good ol wholesome American Rock-N-Roll. So underrated it's sickening.
The " Drums " in The Middle of This Song Reminds me of Bombs & Bullets
My " Last Chance to Stay Alive.
Sincerely,
Sundown from Detroit, Michigan U.S.A.
They are still touring. Saw them tonight in St. Louis, every song they played was fantastic. Were always big in the Midwest, since they are from KC, but never broke as big as they deserved.
wish I could of been there. I know kshe plays their songs alot.
ITS ALL CORRECT NOW! :) *edit done*
When the stranger came to town
All the people watched with wonder
In their tattered clothes
Gathered 'round and raised their eyes up from the dirt
And the stranger said to them
I have been upon the mountain
I have witnessed forces like cannons
That can ram you to the ground
Stand up on your feet
'Cause your life is short as hell
You could be dead tomorrow
Today may be your last chance
To believe in yourself
Your last chance to yell
Your last chance
To be good to yourself
Your last chance
To drink from life's well
In the crowd a voice was heard
Should you get them before
They get you?
Should we strike the first blow?
He said
No No No, you don't understand.
The enemy is in your heart
self respect robbed by self pity,
Look across the country
All the people with their dreams
Dead in their hearts.
Stand up on your feet
'Cause your life is short as hell
You could be dead tomorrow
Today may be your last chance
To believe in yourself
Your last chance to yell
Your last chance
To be good to yourself
Your last chance
To drink from life's well
And drink from the well
Oh yeah
It could be your last chance
To believe in yourself
Your last chance to yell
Your last chance
To be good to yourself
Your last chance
To drink from life's well
Drink from the well
Oh yeah
Drink from the well....
*couldn't find the lyrics comment... :P*
back when songs could be over 6 minutes
Thank you.
One of my favorite songs by Shooting Star: ruclips.net/video/zJ7P0eswtdI/видео.html
Hollywood
Shooting Star
She grew up reading every magazine
Of rags to riches worlds
She lost her heart to do the American dream
Of Hollywood
She used to dream about love
Her youth was lived out like on a stage
She left the boring world she knew at home
And made her star struck way
But something there was lost along the road
To Hollywood
She used to dream about love
Her youth was lived out like on a stage
But these days she hits the strip tonight
All the names in lights, and the games to play
She speeds around and drives uptown
And pulls out all the stops, she'll hit the top someday
Loves New York and California nights
And the glamor life of the celluloid stage
She takes advantage of her long blond hair
Lord I know it's so damn true
We used to sit and talk she'd hold my hand
She'd hold my hand
She used to love me
I used to love her gentle ways
But these days she hits the strip at night
All the names in lights, and the games to play
She speeds around and drives uptown
And pulls out all the stops
She'll hit the top someday, someday
She's got the face and the lips and the legs
That fit mid-America's apple pie ways
Sells herself to the producer's couch
Feeling down and out on the streets of L.A.
And while she's down she's fun to walk on
Until she's dead, they all wonder why
The applause is not for her but for the silver screen
And manufactured dreams to make you cry
So come on give us one more, come on, one more time
Before the hitting the bars on the boulevard
And never fear everyone's a star in Hollywood
She used to dream about love
Her youth was lived out like on a stage
wow cool !!!
Epic words, and words to live by. Just as I commented today about this tune. I scrolled down and saw your great addition to this post. Thanks.. I never really knew all the words. Songs even better now! lol. :)
What a great band... So underrated.
So very underrated! I have all of their albums. Don't understand how they never became huge!
super jam 1980 ,,Busch stadium, ,they all rocked !!!!!
+Orville Williams I saw them at Kiel Opera House---I've been to a TON of concerts over the years and their concert at Kiel is easily somewhere in my Top 5.
+Janine McCartney my first concert ever shooting star at the Kiel Opera house 3rd row i was like 15 or 16
I don't remember where our seats were but I do still have the ticket stub---packed away somewhere. I saved all of my ticket stubs over the years---don't really know why....lol I'm sure we were at the same concert!!
+Janine McCartney,
I save mine, too. Do you know that people want to buy them?
I see ads in a local paper. I'm keeping my memories.
Some of the guitar picks and backstage passes I've saved are autographed. I even have an autographed guitar.
That's my life, not some loser's in a basement. ;-)
pink Floyd
One of the songs that take me back to High School and some of the best times of my life.
Haven't heard this in 3 years ..
So I called it up Directly ❤😊
Are you kidding me? How amazing was this song? Lyrics, solos, but still a straightforward rock song - and it stays interesting for 7 minutes!
Rest In Peace brother Van, Kansas City loves you man! Godspeed.
The drums in the song are simply incredible and are what really make this song for me, and that coming from a guitarist. :-)
This song is "AWESOME"
........ agree,, and some other big tunes they kicked out too!!! \,,/
OMG! Been LOOKING for this! Loved it for 35 years!!!
these guys are terrific; they are from Kansas City, MO. I think the lead singer is a music teacher but you can catch them in KC sometimes
Saw them on Senior Night in 1983 at Six Flags over mid america.
I was a recent graduate of the class of 83'. Went there with a hodge podge of High School bus. My dad's 1981 malibu station wagon. Had a cigarette outlet adaptor plugged into my boom box in the back seat.
We listened to a Van Halen interview I recorded for part of the trip.
The park was open till4am and I knew all of the songs. Stood on my seat singing along and nodding and grinning to my good friend Jeff whom I call the walkin',talkin' encyclopedia of rock & roll. We had a different slightly group of return peeps on the ride home. This was a launching point of my life in a way.
Finally I remember hearing the roar of the Screamin Eagle & looking up at those beautiful May stars. Probably the best concert experience of my entire life. I am 55 now and Jeff hello dude what's up.
This song is timeless...truly legendary
ah, takes me way back. listening to this now, I can hear traces of Kansas, Triumph - maybe a little UFO and some Edgar Winter... great production. thanks for posting
@MetallicBill ... I have all UFO albums and what I could find on CD.The UFO album that's blue with the chrome balls all over it was so far ahead of its time. i think it was UFO, UFO. Those tunes could of came out today and been big hits!!! A killer LP.
This was played on WBLM as they are doing their annual A to Z.. ( takes em about 3 weeks to go through, and you get some wicked deep stuff).. this is a great rip!
Yes Detroit radio and thier listeners LOVED Shooting Star!
October 1980 WRIF/WLLZ played it and I still remember getting chills listening and being blown away by it...STILL am♡♡♡
Man, you know they feeling you get when listening to a deep masterpiece of a song? I'm in that zone right now with this song. It doesn't get much better than this. Wonderful!
this band rocked it!!!
It's a classic. Brings back so many memories. Those were the days. KSHE 95 St. Louis breed.
The first time I heard this song was in 1985, when the classic rock radio station in my area started playing it frequently. I thought is was a new song, and when I went to the local music store hoping to buy a copy if the album, I was told that the record was six years old, and out of print. They also said that maybe they just happened to find a copy st the radio station, and started playing it. Eventually they released "Touch Me Tonight, The Best of Shooting Star, and it has this song on it.
This song has been running through my head all day. I have not heard it in years & did not know who it was. Awesome song!! ❤🤘
I live my life to this song.. today may be your last chance... so drink from life's well... one of the best songs ever written... your life is short as hell.. you could be dead tomorrow.....
Ahhhh - found it! I've been looking for this song for ages - couldn't recall enough of it from my hazy high school years until it came to me today - "Last Chance" - of course. Can't believe that this gem is not included in 2 of today's colossal song databases google play or spotify - not sure about apple play.
I just found "Last Chance" on iTunes (buying it now). I'm doing it on the phone, b/c it's always signed into iTunes. I saw one album of theirs. The computer screen may be more me-friendly searching iTunes. I'll do it in the morning.
I just found "Hang on for your Life" (the whole album) on iTunes. The songs are still .99 cents.
"Buying Flesh and Blood," too. I doubt my old cassettes are in decent shape after 35 years.
... and just bought "Are you on my Side," and "Breakout" off that album. Happy hunting while the songs are under $1.
How could you dislike this song? Great lyrics and high energy!
thank you guys for all of your great songs and the memories with you and the secrets and the gary charleston band. special thanks to mike wagner. i enjoyed rodeing for you all. good times and great memories
Scorponion?
Scorpion?
Really great song from that era of rock!
........ songs if I may be so bold brother! :) \,,/
I was following the band HEART in the 80’s and they were the opening act for several shows… Gary’s vocals were amazing… Steve on the drums inspired me … such a great band!!! One of my favorites!!😎
Love this song always great singing and playing!!!
1983 they opened for ZZ Top....excellent show they put on.....
One of my favorite bands ever. Every album they put out is solid.
Saw them do this live in the early 80s. The electric violin is wonderful.
Yeah, I'm old(er) and I still love these guys. The violin solo was jaw-dropping.
This song epitomizes how I feel. And these guys did a great job. Thank you Shooting Star. We will remember you.
I seen them do this song live at Busch Stadium in 1980 it was awesome the pot belly drums and violin it's burned in my memory
I was there too!!!!! St.louis and KSHE!!!!!
Love this jam!
Ah, Shooting Star. Great memories indeed with this one. Came on the radio late one night while out driving, man, life took on a new meaning doing like 85 to this tune and wondering how everything was gonna turn out in the future. You listen to it and all these things flash in your mind, but the message is clear it could be your last chance so take every minute as a gift and dont think so much! Another killer band from this era that also got screwed was Prophet, look up "Everything You Are."
I remember waking before school 1983 and hearing this tune. No bullies. Ass kicking coming.
I agree with awakened won; it shows there are a lot of people that don't appreciate good music I'd like to include Kansas, who's violin player is a music professor at KU. But I'm with you all the way
Definately a Kshe Klassic....I still have this album!!
Still can't believe this isn't in rotation with classic rock radio!
I remember hearing this song in the early 90s on Detroit radio then it went away thank you youtube
WLLZ & Harpos Night !!
I saw the original Shooting Star at the Hayloft in Mt Clemens. Incredible band!
@@jrgoflo omg!!! Worked at the Hayloft in the early 80's when Colin Traynor owned it. It was total country. Had a load of fun, met a lot of great people and made loads of money. Great times
This Band Should Be up There with Kansas , Styx Journey boston REO etc... They dont have any weak spots. I am from Kc, But i a telling u their songs were on every station from LA To Norfolk and top of charts. I think they need a Salesman Like Me to Promote them , After all i did get one of my bands songs sold to wad productions (sony) and a Movie Soundtrack, and they are not 10% as Good as Shooting Star
I agree-this could be in a movie for sure plus other songs like breakout and Hang on for your life
Thanks for the Input Guys, Im Just saying They have more hits then 85% of all the other 80's bands
Ron Ragan Jr They are as good as the others as far as we’re concerned... Lived near Paseo High growing up but found them when I was in the Army in ‘74-75.. 🤘 Rock On!
@@kafrenchable .. hell yueah,, They're album/s were epic. The whole album 'Hang On For Your Life' is so killer!!!!! \,,/
@@steviejaymanning8193 ..totally agreed man \,,/
I Absolutely just totally love this stuff
Wow... Just one of the many bands from back then that brings back SO many memories!
KickASS tune. I can remember playing this on the home 'stereo' before my then wife and I left for work the afternoon of 9/11/01...Memories.............
Rest in peace Van McLain.
This song kicks ass
I think the entire band was underrated. It's hard to believe that they were rarely if ever heard of by so many people because they put out a lot of good rock and roll songs they put out a lot of good heartfelt songs if you really listen to the words
The first song I heard from them was Hollywood remember that song that's how I got introduced to shooting star great band of all time not recognized enough
What an epic tune!! And a very under rated band. I loved these guys!!!
Best drum solo in a rock song ever. And a wonderful message about living life well every day like it could be your last. And it just might.
Just a beautiful song from a great band. "Last Chance" is from the band Shooting Star's 1980 album "Shooting Star."
I love the creamy 80s guitar tone on this song, it's gold!
Bringing back some good times
one of the BEST songs EVER !!!!!!!!
Epic amazing song this whole album is a masterpiece
discovered this band today ! great vocals, good oldschool hardrock !
Check out Missouri...... A band..... You might like as well
Hey Rainmaker690, I'm 48 and was a part of the music scene in the late 70's through the mid 90's. They did play this a lot, just seems like they played it at night and late night. I miss the Ritz, Main Act, New York New York, now the new NY NY is out by my house. 23 mile and baker in Chesterfield toward New Baltimore.
Wabx days rocked ,in the day of real Djs and the greatest music.
Keep up the great post they must this band must be Remenbered
.... was WABX in Michigan?? I think I remember that station. Was a good one!!! \,,/
I saw shooting star open for Ian Hunter in 1981 at cobo arena in Detroit great show
My first concert at Cobo was Molly Hatchet & 707---around the same year (1981-ish)!! A few months or so later I moved to St. Louis and saw Shooting Star. What a great band!!
First concert at COBO.....TED NUGENT, about 1977 can't remember who opened.
I love FLESH AND BLOOD exellent song. By the way in 1983 i went to summer jam cocert in Boulder Colorado. The line up was 707, Rainbow,Ted Nugent, Scorpions and Reo Speedwagon. At Folsom Field. Ted suppossedly made the guiness book that day.
TheFuzzynutz65
Love Ritchie and all the lead singers of RAINBOW!!
Motor City Man Yeah man it was a day i will never forget. I went with my 2 room mates and best friends from high school may they both rest in peace. Sadly they are gone. Anytime i get to feeling down i just play a few favorite songs and then i read some of the comments and i start feeling real good. Best medicine ever. Thanks for your comment. Take care.
What a fantastic group of musicians!
Van Mclain awarded my band the award for Banzai Midwest Album of the Year onstage at The Lone Star in Westport KCMO.. 1991. RIP Van!
Brings so many memories..