Tom Scholz: You may be a musical genius, but you’re a current-event nitwit, “dude.”

Mike Huckabee is not the “straight talk candidate.” I think you’re trying to reference John McCain and his “Straight Talk Express.”

I have always liked that song, but I have never thought Huckabee was doing something to hurt you. If anything huckabee has brought new attention to your song.

If you are going to critizize Huckabee, well it just shows that you are like all the other money hungry people int his race.

You should also not, that since you like Obama, most Obama and Huckabee supporters have similarities. They are both follwoing leaders that connect to people.

Boston, please have love in your heart, not hate.

Scholz you are a total elitist Prick- you can take your stupid song and cram it! you little bellyaching “has been!” Wow people whining like you are only create more sympathy & support for Governor Huckabee’s cause.

with respect to Tom Scholz, I believe when he took all the money for the song and and we the public are unsolitictly bombarded with it, it becomes public property. Go Obama…

never Feel sorry for a millionaire

This isn’t about money. The guy doesn’t want Huckabee using his song because he doesn’t like his politics. I think it’s a fair complaint.

I have nothing personal against Huckabee, but I don’t want as my president and I wouldn’t my music associated with his ministerial candidacy either.

This being said, he could have been more civil in his request for Huckabee to stop using the song.

Look, I know I’d be pretty pissed if a song I wrote was used in a campaign for a presidential candidate I despised, but still, a musician can’t choose his/her fanbase nor can they determine where or when the song can be played (unless it’s for commercial use). Springsteen’s “Born in the USA” was used for Reagan’s campaign and I’m sure he was pretty pissed about it. But that didn’t do one bit of damage to Bruce’s reputation as an artist b/c he and true fans of his music knew the real meaning behind the song- not its promotional value. I doubt this guy from Boston is going to lose any true fans of his just b/c Huckabee use a song of his for a campaign. If anything, he might lose a few fans just for being so anal about the whole thing.

I support Scholz and any other rock star who has done something like this.

The song might be played all the time in the public, but the fact of the matter is that it is Scholz’s song, not Huckabee’s.

If you create something, then by all means, you should have control over how it is presented.

I thought it was funny that some of the past comments poke at Scholz for being an elitist or a millionaire when we’re about to have an election that is worth in excess of a billion dollars with mostly elitist candidates.

huckabee sucks. rock on tom.

He never got permission to use the song or to associate himself with Tom Scholz’s band Boston, so plain and simple he is wrong. If I made a “Huckabee” dart board or a “Huckabee” brand of toilet paper do you think ole “Huckabee” would appreciate that? His old band mate did not ask either. It is a basic thing called “Please” may I use your song to promote myself? In which Mr. Tom S. has the right to say, “NO!”

Well said Tom, well said!! It’s this guy’s music, he has every right to intervene in this circumstance. Springsteen did it with Reagan, Mellencamp did it with McCain. He’s right about this music and the band being his life’s work and he doesn’t want it to be misrepresented. Bravo Tom.

Huckabee’s use of the song, and his having Goudreau play at rallies does create the impression that Boston endorses Huckabee. Tom Scholz IS boston, so he should have a say as to who uses his music for political purposes. Springsteen objected years ago when Ronald Reagan used “Born In The USA” as his campaign theme. And as for those who hate on him for being rich, well he earned the money. It’s not easy to make hit records, especially ones that last for years. Finally, most people don’t realize how much Scholz fought against big record companies (with his own money) to make record contracts more fair for all artists today. It’s still not perfect, but it used to be way worse!

Huckabee’s use of the song, and his having Goudreau play at rallies does create the impression that Boston endorses Huckabee. Tom Scholz IS boston, so he should have a say as to who uses his music for political purposes. Springsteen objected years ago when Ronald Reagan used “Born In The USA” as his campaign theme. And as for those who hate on him for being rich, well he earned the money. It’s not easy to make hit records, especially ones that last for years. Finally, most people don’t realize how much Scholz fought against big record companies (with his own money) to make record contracts more fair for all artists today. It’s still not perfect, but it used to be way worse!

When was this song written? Like 35 years ago. Doesn’t this point out how greedy many of the elder hollywood types? Scholz has made millions on this song and he’s complaining about this. He seems more upset about not get paid then his reputation. Why isn’t he upset when the song is played Miami Dolphin games?

It seems like the copyright/patent laws are counter to fairness and a better society. A doctor, scientist, or engineer can invent a new drug or a solar power car and can only profit from it for 20 years; where as a person can rhyme some words and he his estate can profit from it until he’s been dead for 70 years.

None of you can spell or use proper grammer. All of your opinions mean nothing if they do not come from an educated mind. There are two words that seperate the conservative agenda from the liberal one. They are “personal accountability,” something this country is sadly lacking as is apparent in both Huckabee and Sholz’s attitudes.

So what, does any political candidate have to check with the original composer(s) before he heads into a karaoke bar? I’ve always somewhat liked Boston (even saw ‘em live on Third Stage tour), but to compalin about such a thing is just hypocrisy (yes, that goes for the ‘cougarless’ Mellencamp and Sprinsteen, too – both of whom I’ve paid money to see in concert).
Evidently these guys don’t remember when they’d have killed to have ANYBODY listen to or play their music.

So what, does any political candidate have to check with the original composer(s) before he heads into a karaoke bar? I’ve always somewhat liked Boston (even saw ‘em live on Third Stage tour), but to compalin about such a thing is just hypocrisy (yes, that goes for the ‘cougarless’ Mellencamp and Sprinsteen, too – both of whom I’ve paid money to see in concert).
Evidently these guys don’t remember when they’d have killed to have ANYBODY listen to or play their music.

I’d be flattered that anyone even remembered BOSTON…. Brad Delp dies of an overdose and we are supposed to revere BOSTON? Give me a break… At least SOMEONE was playing the song…. Perhaps Sholz is right, maybe it should rest in peace…kind of like BOSTON.

BOSTON, as the writer of the hit song I believe you deserve the respect to be asked permission from anyone to use the song as you please. However, I think you lost the entire “argument” when you mentioned the name Obama. It was then that it became obvious what the root cause of your argument/complaint really was about. It isn’t (entirely) about the song, but about a man whose views and beliefs you disagree with. If Huckabee wasnn’t running for President but instead running a fundraiser ad using your song for AIDS research would we be hearing about this?

Who listens to BOSTON anymore?

Wasn’t anyone struck by the narcissistic commentary of Sholtz in the 4th paragraph? I wonder if he contacted the estate of Brad Delp for stating he was the lead singer of this once great group that Solt claims he was the only reason for it’s existence and success? Guess Barry should be looking over his shoulder. His seeming mental illness probably has a lot to do with his need to write to Huckabee. I wonder if he has the Copy Right Police combing the country looking for conservative supporting cover bands to harrass. It’s sad to watch how divisive the political landscape in this country has become. It brings out the very worst in our society.

Actually, I like Huckabee’s version better. Dude, go take some more drugs & viagra and leave the politicking to us normal people!

Above, drbrandie wrote, “None of you can spell or use proper grammer.” Grammar is misspelled. ) Kevin

I’ve paid good money to see Boston and Springsteen in concert. Why can’t they just sing and shut up. I don’t go around spouting my opinions at their concerts and why do they have let me know their opinion. It’s obvious that Scholz is a democrat because his last Boston album was a abortion!

I agree with Getoverit….
I myself don’t give a rats ass about any performers personal views.
If I like music, I will listen to or buy it.
Ask the Dickie Chicks what people think when you mouth off about your personal views.

I would never assume that just because he used a Boston song that Boston endorses Huckabee. Not only because I have common sense, but also because I couldn’t care less who a rock musician endorses as President of the United States. I put as much stock in Goudreau’s opinion as I do in Ted Nugents, in other words, NONE.

No one misses Boston, or the loud-mouthed lying self-serving egototistical gasbag thief also known as Tom Scholz.

Why isn’t Obama taking you out on the trail with him? Guess he figures the 11 votes you might get him won’t make a difference anywhere on the continent huh?

Grow up, shut up, and go home!

I think what Tom needs to realize is that Huckabee wasn’t playing his song to further his campaign, but as a fan of HIS. Way to treat your fans, jerk. In essence Tom is saying that no one who doesn’t agree with him politically has the right to ever perform his music. Guess what Tom, my band will be playing your song next week at a bar and you can’t do anything about it. Grow up and have a little respect for your last remaining fans. After we are gone, there won’t be many to continue on your precious BOSTON legacy. It’s not like you guys were the Beatles or Led Zepplin.

Tom Scholz is as utterly irrelevant as Rolling Stone itself.

Yo. People who can’t spell or string a coherent sentence together, listen up! It is Tom Scholz’s copywritten material. He has the legal right per this country’s laws to have a say in how (and if) HIS music is presented. It is a pretty straightforward law so there should be no confusion, unless you have had a lobotomy recently. wtf? He also has the right to have a political view other than yours or Huckleberry Finn’s!

Tom Scholz has got to be kidding. He is lucky that they had some success since all of their songs sound the same.

Writing “dude” sums up his level of mental maturity. That went out with Fast Times at Ridgemont High” I hope he saved some money from “past” success.

Sholz, your life’s work can be purchased at Wal-Mart for about $11.95 under the “Greatest Hits” selection. Getting your letter published by a once-great-now-wanting source like RS means pathetically little to the rest of the world. Embrace the title you’ve earned: irrelevant.

To see Huckabee play bass at all is so weird. What does this show? That he’ll be a great leader because he took a few music lessons? An then you have this Boston guy; At least people are hearing your music besides being played on classic rock stations that are on the brink of changing formats. I believe no harm has or will take place, just like no harm from the thousands of bar bands playing this song every night.

keep Tom away from the charcoal!

I think these anti-endorsements are fantastic! I will never again make the mistake of offending John used-t0-be-Couger-then-it-wasn ‘t Mellencamp or the BostonBoys by purchasing their music since I am of the conservative persuasion. Shouldn’t be a problem w/ Boston, either. Living on royalty checks has got be more than some kind of a feeling. At the same time, I acknowledge the fact next month’s print version of Rolled and Stoned will fawn and worship the former ‘mastermind’ for his brave stance. So brave. Fight the power, kids!

Yo Tom,

I don’t care that you didn’t want your music used for a political purpose, you have a right to say how it is used. However, now you have endorsed Obama in your letter. As a life long Boston fan (Boston & Don’t Look Back on vinyl), I am sorry that I will be adding your music to my firewood box.

I vow that from this time forward, when I am forced to hear the opinion of some paid monkey, I will destroy, erase or remove from my site any works of that said monkey. I am sick of Hollywood and their BS opinions!

If Tom Scholz didn’t ever want anyone to play his songs who didn’t agree with his politics, he should have never released the music. What if Leo Fender had only let musician’s who agreed with his political views play his guitar? I don’t agree with Tom Scholz’s politics, should I be forbidden from playing his music in my car? If any one knows the address of Tom Scholz or his management, please let me know. I would like to return my Boston CD’s to him.

Get over yourself, Tommy. You’re a legend…. you should take it as a compliment….

Now get out of the lazyboy and get back in the studio, old man!

I guess its not enough that entertainers feel they need to use their stardom to endorse candidates. Now they want to limit a persons ability to play their songs (if the person doesn’t agree with their political views). I wonder how that would play out with the public in general? Maybe we should stop seeing their movies (Brad Pitt et al), if we disagree with their political views? why enrich those that will just use that enrichment to oppose our political views? It seems these entertainers don’t understand they need us; we don’t need them. They are puppets on a string, and maybe its time to retire a few puppets.

Mr. Scholz: You’re way too serious about your music. Go to Africa for a while and see how people suffer from malaria, and don’t have enough food to eat. Then come back and write a song about how God changed your selfishness into selflessness, and maybe you’ll start to see things more from Huckabee’s perspective. Peace.

Maybe people hate Boston because of the name. Change it to NYC and maybe people will buy your cd’s again.

Tom: I’m probably one of the biggest Boston fans in the world, and have all your discs and seen several concerts. But please give us all a break and have a reality check. Boston as a musical entity is officially non-existent. Your lead vocalist killed himself, your last album totally sucked, and your complaining about the use of this song is pathetically transparent. If you don’t like Republicans then be up front and say so. Don’t start bitching about how you ARE Boston, and YOU did everything. We don’t doubt your talent or appreciate the music you made any less. But your chasing your tail on this one buddy. Smoke your weed, cash your royalty checks, live in peace, and keep engineering great sounds. But, please do us all a favor and stay out of politics!

Limousine Liberal. Man, remember when liberals used to be cool? Now, we realize….they are our parents. Elitist commies!

Get a life and get over yourself. You should be glad that someone like Huck is publicizing your songs. Since when does anyone think that the song writer endorses a candidate for a song being played? Much less care for his opinion?

If I buy a CD I can play it in public or for a public event if I choose. I am buying a private license for the rights to that music and I do not have to get further permission if I am not using it for a profit. Is Scholz going to go to every skate rink, coffee house, fair, and other public events that play music for which he does not agree with their issues and stances?

I thought Obama was the candidate of Hope and reaching across the isle? Uniting people, not red states and blue states, but the American people? Is Scholz’s actions a true representation of the candidate that he so candidly supports? Is Scholz so arrogant and pompous to believe that people would believe that Boston endorsed Huckabee because he played their song? Barry Goudreau has every right to say he was ‘from Boston’ and to promote Huckabee if he wants, he played with them, thus he is from them.

You have now painted a target on your back…I would have someone watch your house while you sleep, because Chuck Norris is going to be paying a visit to your house! Uh-Oh!

Hey Tom,

Seeing as how few people have heard from the Boston camp, other than your three remaining fans, I find it not so surprising that you are trying to score some “free publicity”.

You should be happy that someone found meaning in one of your songs, and helped make it relevant again. But instead, you are doing a great job of being a blind, gimped out cowboy; you’re shooting yourself in the foot.

Also, I wouldn’t be so quick to support Obama, seeing as how most of his supporters think progressive rock is something that rolls down a hill…

Way to piss off what few fans you have left, “dude”.

Thanks Tom, To stand up against Monsters like Mike Huckabee is something to be admired. I fear that this Country will put another “Right Wing Relgous Asshole” in Office. One who threatens the freedom of law abiding Citizens who are different than himself. Don’t be fooled people, Mike Huckabee is an Asshole.

Tom, You’re just upset because Huck is playing your songs to larger crowds than you ever did.

“Still Evolving,” may be the best put-down I’ve heard all day.

There is a lot of Boston hate on this page.

It seems like a lot of people are missing the point. Imagine that you had a life’s work, either in music you played, movies you made, or a book you wrote. Sure, it may have been a long while since anyone’s read/seen/heard that work, but by God, it is your life’s work. Now imagine that someone you don’t like or even someone you hate took that work and started using it to promote themselves.

That’s not just your work out there promoting someone you hate. Your name is forever tied with that. Now you are supporting that person you hate. And all of this because some person used your work without your consent.

There are not many people who would feel positively about that situation.

I used to be a big Boston fan until I found out Tom Scholz was such a near-commie liberal. Gee Tom, we’re all impressed that you wrote and played everything on your albums (boy, what an ego!), but I liked Barry Goodreau’s solo album better than anything that came after Boston’s first album.

Boston died when Brad Delp passed away. And I agree that you are now as utterly irrelevant as Rolling Stone, which used to be a decent rag but is now little more that the musical equivalent to US magazine.

People in show business, like Tom, a talented musician, have no place in politics. Politicians have no place anywhere. Two friggin morons who pollute our world…By you saying you are for Obamarama displays your utter ignorance and contempt for your own country that allowed you to be a creative genius but a professional idiot, and by the Huckster using your creativity to bull^&^*& the amreican people displays his contempt for anyhone with a brain. Geez, is there anyone with both breains and morals left out there? I don’t see it…

Tom Scholz. I hate your music and I live in Boston so please stop using the name of a great city. Did you get permission?

Tom you had a good run at history, but now you are history. Be grateful that someone cares enough about your mediocre music to play it.try not to be a prick.

Hey TS, get over yourself. You guys had one “great” album. Quit being a dickhead and be thankful that anyone would want to use your music. Now, if they would have fucked with Steely Dan…………………..

Come on everyone!!

Who really cares what this dope smoker has to say anyway.

Tom, are you going to leave this world a better place? You have been a heck of a role model over the years.
If you have kids, which I hope you don’t, I’m sure they’re real proud of you.
Who are you again? I’ve never even heard of you. Good luck digging yourself out of this one. You had already been forgotten. Your music really is bad, it all sounded the same.

Sorry Obama. Looks like Hillary just gained some ground.

Who is Boston?

First of all, BOSTON is relevant (their debut album sold over 17 MILLION copies). Secondly, Tom disagrees with Huck’s politics, it’s not about the money. I also think it’s hilarious that anyone would call him a Hollywood liberal. Scholz set up his own charity, the DTS Charitable Foundation, to help support such causes as stopping world hunger, creating homeless shelters, food banks and advocating for children’s rights. He also has a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from MIT……so give the guy a little credit.

First of all, BOSTON is relevant (their debut album sold over 17 MILLION copies). Secondly, Tom disagrees with Huck’s politics, it’s not about the money. I also think it’s hilarious that anyone would call him a Hollywood liberal. Scholz set up his own charity, the DTS Charitable Foundation, to help support such causes as stopping world hunger, creating homeless shelters, food banks and advocating for children’s rights. He also has a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from MIT……so give the guy a little credit.

i have more than a feeling… that this is ridiculous.

So did the average Joe even recognize the correlation between Boston music & Huckabee? NO!
In fact, it wasn’t until I read this letter did I even think about it and I’ve seen Huckabee play numerous times!

The last time I checked music was a freedom of expression in America.

I guess what you’re trying to tell the world is that while you yourself have enjoyed the freedoms of creating music, the rest of us should abstain from our freedoms to listening TO YOUR MUSIC.

Well I think you’ve made your point loud & clear.

It’s obvious from internet postings that your letter has done more damage than Huckabee did on your ego.

Signed
One less listener & purchaser of
future Boston recordings.

p.s. There’s a communist country waiting for your talents.

I agree with the Boston guy. By Huckabee using it, it’s implied that Boston endorses him, which they do not.(And with good reason, he’s nuts.)

Oh, to the guy that said Brad Delp(this band’s singer)died of an overdose, that’s incorrect. He commited suicide. The guy was not a drug abuser. Yes, even as a rock star.

Mr. Scholz: You should be so lucky that someone even thought enough of your material to learn it or give it the time of day. As long as the Huckabee camp pays the ASCAP or BMI fees, you have no grounds to piss and moan and he can play your tired old worn out crap at every whistle stop along the campaign trail if he wants to. Frankly, you’re being a low life about this and I’d like to see Ted Nugent take you to task for your left leaning liberal absent mindedness.

Donald (or Tom as you go by), (Not that you will ever read this, I am sure.)

You have every right to voice your opinion on any subject you wish. Anyone that has ever glanced at the inside sleeve of your Third Stage release through your Corporate America release would already know that you would never endorse Gov. Huckabee. I’m not a Huckabee supporter in the least, (I would not vote for any of the canidates still in the race) and would not want him touching anything of mine either, but neither would I ever want you touching anything of mine.

I was a huge fan of your music and poured hundreds of dollars into records, tapes, CDs, gold CDs, front-row concert seats at several concerts (caught both a pick of yours and Brad’s), t-shirts, etc. Your music was the first I ever learned on the guitar.

However, once I noticed the kinds of organizations with which you were aligning yourself, I exercised my free speech by not contributing any longer to “the machine” with which you have joined.

Though I am against animal cruelty, people may want to check out how many animals PETA (a machine to which you donate album sales)euthanize each year, along with many other hypocritical things they bloody themselves which Penn and Teller exposed in their little documentary. (You Tube, I am sure has it if you missed it.)

I also find it interesting that you, along with the vast majority of my fellow animal rights friends, see the need to protect innocent animals from slaughter and experimentation, but do not seem to have the same compassion when it comes to the needless experimentation and slaughter of millions of unborn babies each year. (Sen. Obama is definitely not against either on-demand abortion or embryonic research)

I’m all for civil liberties being protected also, but that is far from what I see being defended by the ACLU. (Donald, NAMBLA perpetuates violence on children. The ACLU (which you again support with album sales) defended NAMBLA.)

Lastly, I have noticed many of your comments after Brad’s death seemed a little insensitive, so let me also take that tone on this one, DUDE! You may in the future want to worry about your “image” a little less, and pay more attention to your buddy’s depression and your personal hypocrisy.

All my love Donald,
Francis

I am SO tired of actors and mucians jumping into politics, I cant even pop in a CD or watch a movie anymore without it being tainted and COMPLETELY ruined by their political aspirations and/or views! I have some advice for you… keep your opinion(s) to YOURSELF! And specifically, as far as this Boston/Huckabee thing goes WHO CARES!!! Boston is a washed up, has been band from the 70’s that were “COKED” out of their minds most of the time and Huckabee isnt going anywhere politically. And as far as this notion of an “implied” endorsement goes, whats that worth??? An emplied endorsement… what good is that, even an OUTRIGHT endorsement is boguss and worthless!

This is a has-been rocker, couch potato jumping off his big backside and trying to get his name back in the spotlight.

Tom should be so lucky that a great guy like Mike Huckabee wanted to use his song.

Mr. Scholzie, your opinions are of no account.

From what I’m gathering, Huckabee ‘performs’ the song? If that’s the case… Scholz needs to shut up. If the candidate is using copyrighted material in an ad campaign – then you got a copyright issue. Otherwise if Scholz weren’t so concerned with nonissues maybe he could produce more than an album a decade – not that anyone still cares about his work, other than from a nostalgic standpoint.
As for any of the remaining candidates… as long as ‘the wicked whitewater witch’ ain’t the next president – 6 of one, half dozen of the other.

I recall hearing the song but never heard of this Tom guy. I googled Boston and sounds like they came on like gangbusters 30+ years ago and sank as fast as John Edwards. Maybe Tom should shut up and be thankful someone remembers his music. Doesn’t sound as if Huckabee is using it as promotion. He apparently has played it and others songs as fill in. So my advice to this Tom Guy is slow down his brain on the music and reconsider an Obama vote. Would you hire a guitarist with no experience? Probably not so why would you want to hire Hussein Obama?

Tommy, Since I do agree with Huck, I can not listen to your music? Grow up and get over it.

He signs it “Still evolving.” What does that tell you? He’s turned off by Huck’s religious mumbo-jumbo.

Grow up and get a life Sholz! You ought to take it as a compliment that your song is even being played. And, seriously, EVEN IF people DID think this intimated that Boston was endorsing Huckabee, WHO WOULD CARE? I, for one, am part of the camp that believes you and all the other “artists” should SHUT UP AND SING. Your political opinions hardly warrant national attention.

Tom Scholz is just looking for publicity, Boston has nothing going for it at all. Life’s work Scholz, you and your band are one hit wonders, who have produced nothing new since the 70’s. Slither back into your hole Scholz, you opportunist!!

“straight talk express”? hello scholz, thats John McCain. I think what has caused you damage is drug use. you and “boston” have not produced a hit in decades. can anyone else see that scholz is just trying to use Mike Huckabee to get publicity. Well it worked scholz, you got some attention but now everyone thinks you are a tad burnt out…

Being a professional musician and recording artist, myself. I totally agree with Tom. That is his musical creation which is 100% copywritten. If Starbucks used Maxwell House coffee jingle… you can bet there would be more then a simple request to stop. Can you say, multi-million dollar law suit?
All you idiots, saying Tom is a has been etc. MUST be leftest liberal fruit-nuts. The man is a genious. *Ovah^!

Tom Scholz shows his ignorance by stating Huckabee is the “straight talk express”–that’s John McCain, not Huckabee. He is obviously clueless about politics.

Scholz should be flattered that someone like Mike Huckabee would want to play his music. Scholz has shown that he has no class.

Mike Huckabee playing Boston’s music is only helping Scholz–Huckabee is in the news every day. Scholz is a has-been.

If he were a gentleman, he could say “I’m flattered that someone running for President is a fan of my music. I may not agree with his policies, but at least we agree on good music.” This would have endeared him to music fans. Now he has just alienated the few who did like him.

Oh I can see it now, Scholz and his lawyers scouring the streets listening for the sounds of more than a feeling. I know about 20 bands who have played this obnoxious tune in bars of the years, you gonna sue them. Come on buddy we know you just want some spotlight but how about trying to make some new music. I guess Mike Huckabee thought your tune was good enough to perform, you should be grateful someone still likes to play the nauseating tune. the issue is that Huckabee plays the tune himself, it is not Scholz actual recording so buddy you got nothing to grip about….

Huckabee plays “more than a feeling” with his band, they do not use scholz actual recording. Um It also should be brought to everyones attention that when Huckabee plays the song “More Than A feeling” he does it with Barry Goudreau standing right next to him. Barry was a member of the band Boston.Their real problem is with Goudreau…….

I regarded Scholz as an intellectual music maker. Now I think he is a dolt. It is obvious he is as “guilty” as Huck is by using his letter as a platform to espouse his political views. The only difference is that Huck used and played the song because he simply appreciated it.

I’m terrified by reading the posts here, isn’t anyone paying attention to just how much of a right-wing nutjob Huckabee is?

That said, I also agree with Tom. I wouldn’t want some jerkoff hijacking any of my songs to get him elected.

Very surprised how many people here (apparently music fans, seeing as how this is Rolling Stone) would take the opposite side of a musician trying to defend his work.

Is Tom Sholz going to scour the world to make sure anyone who’s politics aren’t HIS politics isn’t playing his song? Get over it.

John Mellencamp has always had issues. He thinks it’s HIS country.

Self-centered whining musicians make the news while the liberals are fielding two teams of husband-wife lawyers vs. a war hero, naval carrier group commander, and long-time legislator who worked well with both sides of the aisle.

Check their legislative voting records and YOU decide while I listen to something other than Mellencamp and the Boston fairy.

Well I know what to do with the BOSTON records my wife wants me to do something with. Recycle!!

Scholz, Stop your crying you big baby! If you want a Muslim in White House….you have smoked way too much maui wowi over the years. Wake up dude!

why don’t you go and try to finish an lp in less than 8 years tom scholz, that’s probably why brad delp killed himself! i know that was bad but geez, 8 friggin years for that piece of crap lp ‘corporate america’ back in 2002?

Musicians are failing in general because they no longer want to make music. By and large the majority of the major players just want to make money. Tom is an idiot as far as his ideology is concerned. According to him all it takes is for someone else to play his music, and he is now forever tied to that person. How many DJ’s spun that song over the years? What were their political views? Enquiring minds must know now!!! Give me a break. What he ought to be doing is making new music that people will enjoy and want to hear if he wants to share with the world. If he’d rather keep it to himself then he ought to and go away. Same goes for all of these moron musicians so consumed with themselves that they bite that hand that feeds them.

I don’t get involved with politics much, But I do love it when a politician, or anyone, likes my music so much that they would play it over and over and over… They main question is: are you recieving your royalties from Huckabee? If you don’t agree with his politics you could always give the checks back or sign them over to obama.

Sincerely,
MosesCotton@mo sescotton.com

He should be happy that someone actually gives a shit about his Corporate Rock song after over 20 years of indifference.

Did it ever occur to him that maybe he could sell a few CDs if he let Huckabee play the song over a PA?

Really, this is a non story from band that’s pretty much forgotten.

No wonder Hunter Thompson offed himself. Jesus, What the hell have RS stone readers turned into? I’ve never read such moronic tripe and shit-for-brains letters in my life. Where does this twisted logic come from? Too much Fox News and Glenn Beck, I guess? Simple fact. Mike Huckabee stole someone’s music without their permission. Get it? It’s called theft. Pure and simple. Music is property – just like your car or your clothes or your guns. When people steal them, they get in trouble. Tom Scholz has every right to be pissed off and to demand that Huckabee cease and desist the use of HIS song. That’s how America works. If you don’t understand that basic American right – then you’re really not much of an American. you must believe that music is communal property – perhaps you are communists? Or you believe that somehow the divine Huckster has an ordained right to take whatever he likes without permission. I think he ought to have him arrested and the rest of you who don’t “get it” should be arrested along with him for utter stupidity.

This is absurd. I always tell people that they shouldn’t judge artist by their political beliefs. But this guy is suggesting that someone who he disagrees with can not use his music on a campaign trail. I do not, and never have supported him. Music serves a greater good and its use should not be limited too people who agree with them politicaly.

No one would ever believe that the use of a song implied an endorsement from the writer. Making that argument is downright idiotic.

I think Huck’s a decent enough guy to honor Tom’s request, despite the way it was presented.

By the way Ricky,
Huckabee is hardly an elitist candidate…In fact, he’s the only candidate in the race who’s not a millionaire.

For those of you who don’t know, Tom Scholz is being humble to say that music is his life’s work. His life’s work has been fighting childhood disease, poverty, helping with homeless shelters. He has devoted himself to charitable work. And Brad Delp was a true gentleman, who did not die of a drug overdose.

If you call him irrelevant, ask yourself how relevant YOU are.

Be careful whom you judge, especially when you don’t really know them.

As an Arkansas GOP member, who is probably going to vote for Obama in November (if the HillBilly’s don’t steal the Demo nomination), and a long-time Boston fan, I’m glad about the following:

1) Tom is standing up for his song
2) Tom is supporting Obama
3) Some of the people on this board recognize that Huckabee is a nut.

For those of you who don’t know why a Republican is supporting Obama, learn a little about Reagan, I believe the Gipper would have supported Obama as well.

Yes WE can!!!

As I write this it’s friday morning. Tonight cover bands all across America will most likely wind up playing this song. My question is. Will you be upset and feel ripped off Tom? If not what’s the difference?

Insane… ok.. heres the scenario. Go buy a Boston CD and play it to a crowd of people that disagree with the band members politics and say its a good song. Lets see, i bought it (thats $ for Tom). I advertised it ($ for Tom). I brought it back to the public (its been dead for years and is now more $ for Tom). hmmm Tom does pretty well for his “lifes work”. Shut up Tom. You sold, he bought and listened. If you dont want people using or listening to your music then dont sell it you idiot.

First of all More Than A Feeling is an overplayed rock song that wasn’t all that great in the first place. I’m not surprized he supporting Obama. I so love all his speeches that don’t have any substance and make unexplained references to hope and change. What is he going to change? No one seems to know.

His message is as about as substantive as this stupid song!

Go Hillary Clinton, by far the best choice for president. Too bad she won’t win because of all these people who are suckered in by emotional speeches that never explain any kind of plan.

re: Yossarian | 2/15/2008, 9:15 am EST

“Mike Huckabee stole someone’s music without their permission. Get it? It’s called theft. Pure and simple. Music is property – just like your car or your clothes or your guns. When people steal them, they get in trouble.”

It’s amazing to me that you could call anyone else an idiot or a moron.

A person who writes a book doesn’t have a say as to who READS or USES their ideas. The person who invented the toilet has no say as to who is USING his invention. He/She definately can’t even control what that person’s favorite color is, much more his political views. Why do we musicians whine about our end-user’s beliefs when, unlike authors and inventors, we get a CHECK everytime our inventions are used commercially? Imagine if we had royalty checks for toilets…

I’m glad Tom took the time to express his displeasure and make his true viewpoints known. mmountan, you are a jerk – honestly, who gives a $hit who is the “straight talk express.” They are all liars!

Wow. Shut up, sing, and collect your iTunes check because Huckabee is giving you a plug. Idiot.

Tom Scholz has a right to set the record straight that neither he, nor his “life work” endorse Huckabee, and so he has, but that’s pretty much it. This is (still) a free country. If Scholz’s ARCH ENEMY wants to listen to, learn, and even PLAY along with a Boston song, they have every right. The only thing Tom Scholz has the right to complain about it is the measely publishing rights that he owns to that song and could easily be collected by ASCAP or BMI. Personally, I think he should just be flattered that people are still listening to his 30 year old music.

As a drummer, let me say that local bands continually play hit songs at local venues. Yes, Mustang Sally and Sweet Home Alabama top the list. Are we stealing or in fact making the artist money by keeping oldies in the limelight. I would be flattered to have my original music in the spotlight. I say no harm no foul for Huckabee. Is there truth to the rumors that Obama refused to be sworn in on the Bible and refuses to salute the flag? That’s real issue…

Whatever bullfrog7… who are you trying to fool!
I’m a gay (pink sock) liberal Democrat from New York City and I’m so upset with Obama that I’m going to write in Rush Limbaugh for President!

As Alice Cooper once said: “If you’re listening to a rock star in order to get your information on who to vote for, you’re a bigger moron than they are. Why are we rock stars? Because we’re morons.”

Are you serious? Who in their right mind bases their vote on some song they heard at a political rally? Geez, I was going to vote for Obama, but that Huckabee cat was playing that song from Boston.

That was my favorite song from 30 years ago, if the Huckster is playing it, it must mean he has the full support of Boston so therefore I’m voting for Huckabee!

I for one, am tired of these so called musical artists trying to dictate who can play their songs. I don’t see them putting out a disclaimer saying “If you don’t agree with my political views, don’t buy my record”. What a joke, check your ego at the door Tom!

I’m still a fan of Boston’s music, but Tom Scholz obviously needs to learn the valuable lesson of the Dixie Chicks. STAY IN YOUR LANE. Creating good music does NOT make your politics views anymore important , nor does it mean that your fans want to here them.

hey i have an idea. Tom write a new song!

Get er Done!!! If osama gets elected we’ll all all be singin more than a feeling. As he sticks it to us. Grow up Tom your one step above a pizza delivery boy who cares what you think.

I am surprised, and disappointed, by how easily readers dismiss Scholz’ complaint. Mike Huckabee is not a music lover – in this context, he is a politician trying to convince people that his perspective – his values, are worthy of their vote and, that he deserves to be made the most powerful person in America. Don’t you feel it is important that he clearly, and unambiguously communicate what those values are? I would hope that Huckabee would gladly forego using the Scholz song – as he has been informed that the composer holds opinions diametrically opposed to his. Popular music of all kind, is used to gloss over the lack of substance, on television shows, in films, on radio talk shows, and out of the mouths of politicins. Do you want to understand your candidate, or are you content with ‘only a feeling’. Be harder on your candidates, and on yourself.

Give us a break Mr. Boston…
I have no problem with you not wanting him to play your song, but you are the one making this political. No one cares or knew about this tidbit of info until you brought it to light by having it printed in Rolling Stone. You could have easily contacted the campaign privately to express your feelings.
P.S. The “straignt talk” is McCain numb nuts!

Anyone can walk into a music store and buy the music sheet to any song to which the artist receives money through ASCAP. That person is free to play that music having paid for it. What is wrong is to imply that the band is supporting a campaign when the music is played. Had the letter addressed only that issue, it would be proper. Unfortunately, “BOSTON” went too far and has given us another reason to not vote for Obama!!!

Tom Scholz does get one thing right – Boston is his life. Kinda sad: a washed-up, has-been band whose songs all sound the same is his life. Tommy, step away from the computer and get yourself a hobby. I’m not a supporter, but rock on, Huck!

WoW. I am floored. I am a Huckabee supporter and had no idea he played any of Boston’s tunes. Tom Scholz is a musical genius, and the band “Boston” happens to be my all time favorite band, but this is beyond ridiculous. Get a life, Mr. Sholz. And while you’re at it, enjoy spending all that royalty money you get every time any band plays a cover of your music.

Music and politics don’t mix. Royalties are due – but he can’t deny Huckabee the right to play it – especially if Huckabee obtains a license (through Harry Fox Agency or by written letter of intent) and then pays him roughly 9 cents every time he air’s it.

It is commonly known that stage musicians rarely play sessions. So his complaint that Huckabee mislead people about who actually “did” the song originally – well that’s weak. Let’s see… the guy who is playing with Huckabee was a member of Boston and played it as part of the original band… yeah, still sounds weak.

Huckabee doesn’t have the right to imply that “Boston” is associated with his campaign… if that’s what he’s doing. But he has a right to state facts, apply for license, and pay royalties. It’s just sad to require every fan to put out a disclaimer before covering your tune.

In the end, I don’t see how anyone in the “blogsphere and you-tube-land” would ever assume that Boston supports anything/anyone. If anything, it has given Tom a forum from which his endorsement of Obama might sound significant… for about two seconds.

Go, Tom!
Politicans, stay away from rock! If you had any talent for rock or anything else, you wouldn’t have become the worthless leaches.
BTW, none of you millionaires in Congress or Senate could represent my interests in a million years. Your sugar daddies elect you and control you, and some of us are aware of that.

Sounds like Boston ‘represents’ some pretty poor morals and it’s time for me to removed their discs from my collection and cease buying or playing their music. I’m glad he made it clear what he stands for.

i used to be a boston fan until reading this letter. Mike Huckabee plays a cover of this song live, he does not record it. It is thus not copyrighted material and he is doing nothing wrong. He is a Boston fan and loves that song. It’s one of few things I disagree with the Huckster on.

Would he mind if Obama Hussein Ladin covered it?

It seems to me you all miss Tom’s actual point.

1. Boston has the BEST selling debut album in music history. Tom has a right to boast, and yes, it still sells!!

2. Although I believe Barry Goudreau is a phenomenal musician on his own, he is NOT a member of Boston, and hasn’t been since 1979. Huckabee playing next to Goudreau and saying, “here’s the writer of this song and Boston member, Barry Goudreau”, would be like Guliani (if he could) playing “Shock Me” next to Vinnie Vincent and saying “here’s the guy who wrote this song, Kiss member, Vinnie Vincent”. I believe Ace and Gene would be considerably pissed.

Tom has a right to his own political views, and we have a right not to listen, however, Tom does have an exclusive right to his creation, it’s called the Copyright laws. Even bands who cover another band’s music in public is technically responsible for performance royalties and are supposed to hold an ASCAP, BMI, and SECAS license, and if Tom feels his music is being promoted improperly, he has the right to stop it. He could sue Goudreau and Huckabee for copyright infringement, but he chose to go the route he did. Doesn’t sound stupid to me. It’s about business, not politics.

Mike Huckabee can choose to play a song and pay the ASCAP royalty. He has no right to imply endorsement from Tom Scholz or Boston. Barry Goudreaux was the equivalent of a “temp worker” – not even a session musician. A corporation would sue a temp worker that fraudulently represented him/herself as an officer/spokesman and would target that lawsuit at any accomplice entity such as Mike Huckabee. Can’t Huckabee find a musician/ celebrity that endorses him? Why doesn’t he learn their songs?

All you morons who disagree with Scholz not wanting Hukleberry Hound using his music just don’t get it! You all sound like a bunch of idiotic Rush Limbaug ditto shit heads! This is truly about politics and the emotions that song ring out when the Hound plays it, sticks it in your facist minds! What free thinking individual would want this??I don’t blame Scholz one bit for seperating himself from all you neo-nazis!

I’m going to smash all my Boston records now because thats what all of us rednecks do when we disagree with someone.

If Tom still holds the rights to his music, then he has the right to dictate who may or may not use it. He also has the right (as an American)to speak freely on his choice of a candidate. You see, it’s all about rights. The same rights that a bible-thumping Conservative like Huckabee would love to curtail. The right to worship the entity of MY choice and the right to decide whether to bring a child into this world or not are two prime examples. Not to worry, though. Huckabee has a snowball’s chance in Hell of getting the nomination anyway.
Rock on, Tom.

No matter what others may think here…paying an ascap fee does not bypass the artists’ right to say no to the use. It is, indeed, copyright infringement to use the piece without permission…even performance use….read up on copyright laws before you say otherwise.

On top of that…I don’t see anything in the letter saying he wants to be paid for the use…he wants his own ideas to stop being central to Huckabee’s campaign…..and Huckabee: are you a politician or musician?? Stop pushing your band and get down to the brass tacks of the campaign!

As Tom was learning to play his instruments, how many times did he play someone elses music? What gave him that Right? Were his political views contrasting to the artists whose songs he played? I don’t think the Huckster was playing Boston C.Ds at political events but rather played music live just for pure enjoyment of MUSIC. If I must now get rid of all my music based on my political views differing from the artists, then My library is gonna be bare.

BOSTON…Everyone in Boston supports Obama?..funny, I always thought that it was a city…Do they have to pay royalties to the city of Boston everytime they refer to themselves as BOSTON? Do the city founders even care that their name is now forever asscociated with has-been, drugged up rockers and suicide? Will Boston write BOSTON a letter expressing their concern? Do we care?

I love this comment. Hahaha-nice work, Oxy!

OxyCon | 2/15/2008, 11:50 am EST

I’m going to smash all my Boston records now because thats what all of us rednecks do when we disagree with someone.

The same thing happened in the Reagan years. Ronald used Springsteen’s “Born in the USA” without permission.

Tom is not saying that people who do not share his political views are “disallowed” from enjoying his music. What he is saying is he does not want his music used in a campaign without his consent, and due to the fact that he owns the rights to the song and name of the band “BOSTON,” he is well within his right to disallow that use.

This isn’t a matter of politics or morals or what anyone stands for, it’s a matter of illegal use of a copyrighted song and name. Huckabee tried to use the song to gain mass popularity for his name and campaign and did so without the consent of the owner. He was wrong to do so and Tom was very classy about the situation in his letter.

I think it’s great that Huck wants to show his personality through music, but he should get permission from the owner of whatever song he wants to use.

Rock on Tom and Rock on Huck

tom shultz is a dousche and is responsible for his bandmates death.

Tom Sholtz is the man, so Huckabee… FUCK OFF!

Apparently Mr. Huckabee is trying to hang his hat on the baby boomer generation, much like the Cadillac CTS ads have done in the past year or so by using music from the same era.

Anyone whose presedential agenda includes the abolishment of an institution as large and as powerful as the Internal Revenus Service, as Huckabee’s does, has a very large ego, or very bad judgement. IRS personnel and friends alone are probably enough votes to send his candidact into the garbage pail.

Using a song without permission for a presidential campaign shows about as bad judgement as trying to abolish the IRS.

“you’re no good, you’re no good, you’re no good, baby you’re no good…”

Tom… I don’t particularly care what your political opinions consist of. I enjoyed your talent just as much as any other Boston fan ever has. While it’s within your right to request your copyrighted material not be used without your permission, it’s highly suspicious that a supposedly PRIVATE letter to Mr. Huckabee requesting that he stop using your material shows up on an internet website. You can support Obama until Boston has another #1 hit if you choose. More than likely, your “band” will be on the top of the charts long before a Muslim in Christian’s clothing gets elected to office in this country.

Goodbye, Boston…..again.

Tom Scholz is a graduate engineer from MIT. He has had an exceptional career in both music and sound engineering. His contributions will forever make him a legend. As a living creator of wondrous works he deserves a voice in how his creations are used.
Huckabee is a boring strict creationist, a mediocre bass player, a hapless comedien, and thankfully has no chance of going anywhere in politics.

Don’t smash your Boston collection; sell them on ebay and send the money to Huckabee’s campaign.

First of all – Mr Scholz would be nothing without some of the original members of the Boston lineup as I believe he was a keyboardist that Barry Goudreau taught guitar. Secondly, Mr Scholz has had attitude problems all his life – including with his own band and its members so why not continue now with someone else. Scholz needs to get a life. No one has harmed him – intentionally or otherwise. They (Mr Huckabee) only honor him by playing his songs only to have him turn on them as he always does. Mr Brad Delp was the driving force behind Boston – without his voice Scholz would be nothing – and Barry Goudreau taught Scholz guitar. Now he bashes Barry – Tom you are a real nice person … No wonder the record companies and your own band members sued you…

So much to say…Scholz, You Suck!

If you read the letter, you’ll notice this has been states he wrote and recorded the song but does not say he has the copyright to is. He does say he has the trademark to the name Boston. If he still owned the copyright to the actually song, he would have said that. The fact is, I am in my late 20’s have an I pod so full I can’t fit another song on, and I have never even heard of this Band. I don’t know what 70’s washed up hippies are on here writing about some band most of us has never even heard of. Um “dude” your 15 min has expired.

Thanks for exposing the truth manipulations that Huckabee utilizes to bring attention to himself and forward his campaign. He’s another Republican showing his unauthentic side.

Maybe Tom should move out of the country if Huck is elected like all those other liberals said they would do if Bush was elected. That’s right they never left because no where else in the world could they have the freedom they have now. In this country we even have the freedom to be assholes. Way to exercise that freedom Tommy Boy. Boston sucked back then and still sucks.

Mr Scholz is washed up – and has been for a long time. Instead on concentrating on writing music in the 70’s and 80’s he concentrated on bashing the people the helped build him up. He definately has an ego issue and that was obvious with his run in with the record company and with Barry and Sib (his original band). All of the original members that were with Scholz during the first years in my opinion were the best sound the band had. Scholz thinks that he alone made this band – think again Mr Scholz. He may have a degree from MIT but he is not the brightest light in the socket by his actions with people around. Tom – please try and show the people around you some respect – I know that is hard for you but not all people are out to screw you. I am a musician myself but I certainly do not think I am the greatest musician in the world as Mr Scholz appears to believe of himself.

Well I guess if Toms pissed about it he probably needs to get happy in the same clothes he got mad in. Cause no one really gives a shit anymore, same asshole college kids that voted for Osama… er Obama are pirating Boston music off illegal free copies of Limewire! I guess the city of brotherly love, loves a camel jockey in the “White House” and considers all you white people a bunch of dumb white crackers wrapped around his finger!!! Oh well I guess I’ll burn my Boston Albums now!!!

The most surprising thing about this story is that Tom Scholz took some time off from masturbating to write a letter.

Mike Huckabee is the man, so Tom Scholz FUCK OFF!

Now Tom has poor morals? Obama Hussein Ladin? You all are doing NOTHING to convince me that your version of Republican thought is decent and moral.

I still listen to Scholz’s music, and I’m proud of it. Rock on!

Wow… There sure are a lot of people that fail “reading comprehension” commenting on this thread.

A political campaign is essentially one long advertisement for the candidate, which in turn means that images, sounds and especially music, used in that “ad” become associated with the values that he/she represents while campaigning.

It should be obvious that having your song/picture/voice/image or any other creation of yours – something that represents *your* effort – used in an ad or to support an idea or cause is different than having it enjoyed as intended. If you don’t see the difference between having your painting hung in a gallery or your music played on the radio and having your art used to launch the next floor wax or luxury car then you probably haven’t created anything of that kind of value in your life.

How would *you* feel if something that you had worked on for years was appropriated by someone else and held up as representative of something you disagreed with? What if you had a nice family portrait photo taken and a political candidate “borrowed” that picture from the photo lab to put up on signs as an example of “our kind of family” – but they supported things that you comletely disagree with? Wouldn’t you ask them to stop using your picture?

A brief history of the band BOSTON as relative to this topic: Tom Scholz did pretty much everything of merit besides Brad Delp’s vocals. Everyone else basically had the input of studio musicians. Scholz is BOSTON.

He is not asking for money. For those that jumped to that baseless conclusion, it says more about you than it does about Scholz.

He is simply asking to not be associated with the ad that is Huckabee’s campaign. If Capitol Offense (or any other cover band) wants to play a song at a generic gig, it’s very different than playing it at a campaign rally.

He also doesn’t care if Huckabee, or any follower of Huckabee, or anyone at all *listens* to his music. In fact, for those of you that think that BOSTON “sux” or is inconsequential or irrelevant, the fact that it was chosen to be played shows that you are without a clue. If you were right and the song was without merit we wouldn’t be having the conversation because it wouldn’t have been played. The undeniable truth is that the song is found irresistably catchy by a majority of people that listen to it.

Scholz has issues with Barry Goudreau and his wife Connie, he recently filed a lawsuit against Connie Goudreau for defamation of character.

Here is the real story folks:

href=”http://massachusettsforh uckabee.blogspot.com/2008/02/o n-wires-today-is-letter-from-t om.html”>http://massachusettsf orhuckabee.blogspot.com/2008/0 2/on-wires-today-is-letter-fro m-tom.html

The establishment elite and the Christian haters are trying to dig up some mud on Huckabee. Is this the best they can do? I expect the next few replies to this message will be from angry Mormons who say they are conservative, but will not support anyone but their poster boy Mitt “Millionaire” Romney.

Yossarian-you pretty much hit the nail on the head.
Kristina-your 1 minute of fame is up-”The fact is, I am in my late 20’s have an I pod so full I can’t fit another song on, and I have never even heard of this Band. I don’t know what 70’s washed up hippies are on here writing about some band most of us has never even heard of. Um “dude” your 15 min has expired.”
Point is, Tom Scholz does have a right to not have his work associated with someone who’s views are the polar opposite of his.

Scholz is being childish, in the stamp-your-feet way that most liberals tend to be when they feel compelled to whine about something.

If only he could put forth this much energy into writing good music.

NH guitarist – grew up in MA in the 70’s and remember it differently. It was well known at the time that “Boston” was basically Scholz w/ Delp brought in for vocals and Sib for drums. The primary recordings were done in Scholz’s basement while working for Polaroid. Boston was known as a mediocre live act because they weren’t a real band. The other two were’t part of “the band” until after the record was recorded. Scholz is no great guitarist we used to call him “half speed” because his solos sounded like Jeff Beck at half speed. But he did create Boston. I’ve never heard your Barry Godreaux story before.

I’ll fight any one who’s posting. name a time and place.

I’ll fight any one who’s posting. name a time and place.

this guy needs to get over himself! im surprised he took enough time away from looking at himself in the mirror to write that letter!
lame

Eddie it is the number 1 selling debut rock album of all time he does not need to sell anymore cds…

Mr. Scholz and “Boston”contributed a great deal to rock. He has the American right of free speech as we all do. He also has the right to be outspoken on his political views, as we all do. No matter who I support politically, as an old hippie and an American, I have to support Tom’s rights. By the way….Go Obama!

Maybe this Osama supporter, Mr. Sholz, has never heard of something called a cover band.

Hillary Clinton uses Celine Dion’s You and I (were meant to fly) which is a song from a commercial for Air Canada. Written by a Canadian ad man, recorded in Canada using Canadian musician and sung by a Canadian, Celine Dion. Couldn’t Hillary have found a song written or performed by somebody from the USA? We at least she’s not using the Billy Joel song that she used in her senate campaign: “Captain Jack will get you high tonight; just a little push and you’ll be flying.”

I love how these “christians” are directing curse words and derogatory comments toward Mr Scholz simply because he doesn’t want his music used in this way. If he holds the rights to his music, he has the right to say how it can and cannot be used. As a supposed “musician”, Huckabee should have known better.

****************************** *****
Anonymous | 2/15/2008, 12:19 pm EST

tom shultz is a dousche and is responsible for his bandmates death.
**************************** *******

My Dear “Anonymous”
(if that *IS* your name),

Brad Delp took his own life in March of 2007. He was at home, alone.

His death was a charcoal-burning, carbon monoxide suicide.

Todd C. wrote:
***
“How would *you* feel if something that you had worked on for years was appropriated by someone else and held up as representative of something you disagreed with?”
***
Happens all the time those OUTSIDE of the music industry. I suppose candidates running for office need to check the political beliefs of the people who design their clothes, cut their hair, make their cars (does GM endorse Huckabee?)etc. Where do we draw the line on this and why is the MUSIC industry sooo special? We musicians can be bunch of whiners…

I don’t know why you monky’s are hating on Scholz. That’s his life’s work for which he is allowed to be proud of. And seeing is how it’s his work, he can say how it is to used. So if some ignorant asshole starts using his work/art in a way he doesn’t agree – he has the right to stop that shit. So you Huckabee supporters can kiss his ever-evolving ass and maybe go read a science book you f’n moron.

Hey Scholz. The last I heard you don’t even OWN the rights to More Than A Feeling”. Their old manager does, You doesn’t have a legal leg to stand on here. Hey Dude, be happy that the old manager hasn’t chosen to use More Than A feeling” in a hamburger commercial. Even if he did, you wouldn’t have a legal leg to stand on
Get a life “dude”. Get over yourself. The world does not “REvolve” around you..
Huckabee is the straight talk candidate? ?Yeah you really have some political knowledge, Dude!. That’s McCain Dude.
Go back under your rock with your PETA buddies,Dude.
You can cram your political beliefs down our throat and tell us what we should not eat with your music, and that’s OK ?
What a hypocrite.!

After writing “dude” he lost all credibility. I guess that is why he is for Obama.

Did he write this after smoking some dope?

If he thinks he was ripped off, well so was I when I purchased his Rockman product back in the 80’s.

I have never heard of Shultz or his band and I am in my 50’s so I grew up in his “time”. Seems to me he should be flattered Governor Huckabee likes his music. What does his political views have to do with that? I believe Shultz is using this to get himself some free (much needed since noone knows him) publicity. Looks like it worked so he should be grateful to Governor Huckabee who, by the way I do support and did vote for.

linda were you born in a cave or what. who hasn’t heard of boston.

I LOVE how he signed his letter
“Still evolving,
Tom Scholz for BOSTON”

Evolution is a very important idea to understand.. Something that Huckleberry and his ship of fools can’t quite wrap their heads around. Evolution is central to life, growth and the artistic process. Nothing wrong with using the word dude either.. wake up people!

Boston is a has-been band.They are no longer relevant.He should be thankful someone likes their music enough to want to use it.Using Dude undermines his credibility as an intelligent artist.

Better to be a has been than a never was.

Huckleberry will never win because he is a lunatic although at least he seems to be against THE PERMANENT WAR ECONOMY unlike the rest of his “party”

Jesus loves you for that dude!

Certainly using someone’s intellectual property while simultaneously misrepresenting their business name and trademark associated with it is really low. Of course Huckabee can’t grasp the fact that a good many people find an implied association with him nothing less than slanderous.

It seems like the same ol stuff over and over again. Many agreed that Scholz has the right to say what he feels about his music and how it is being used. Huckabee whether he is liked or not should not be bad mouthed. As well as any other canidate. What happened to this great country of freedom of choice. Let your voice ring out on election day, and do not talk bad about others you do not like. remember why we love to live here ladies and gentlemen, or am I talking to the wrong crowd.

It seems like the same ol stuff over and over again. Many agreed that Scholz has the right to say what he feels about his music and how it is being used. Huckabee whether he is liked or not should not be bad mouthed. As well as any other canidate. What happened to this great country of freedom of choice. Let your voice ring out on election day, and do not talk bad about others you do not like. remember why we love to live here ladies and gentlemen, or am I talking to the wrong crowd.

Dear Tom Scholz, My comment to you is “More than a Feeling,” I’m telling you to get a life. Don’t write music if you don’t want people to play it! The song isn’t that great anyway!

Tom “Turkey”- You have got to be kidding me! Are you going to go after EVERY cover band that performs your written “masterpiece”? LOL You should be more grateful that Huckabee is promoting your former band and song. Thats money in your pocket “DUDE”! Seems to me you might even owe him commission for increasing your record sales and royalties. Hmmmmm. At least he’s a decent guy with morals. On the other hand, they could be a band full of haters, racists, child molesters and drug addicts. Is that what you want promoting “your” song?

Sincerely,
FORMER Boston Fan

I’m feeling you Ernie.. Now I feel bad about being a hater. I’m sure good old Huckabee is a nice guy.. its just that the things that he stands for are kind of scairy.. Wouldn’t it be great if the political discourse in this country could be more civilized?

to lordgenesis – Can a city or a state copyright its name?? I don’t think so. How about Kansas, Chicago, Alabama, or New York City, or America. I don’t remember hearing any brouhaha about these groups violating any city or state’s “copyrights” when naming their group.

Tom Scholz has every right to complain when somebody is using his music and impling that he and his band are on board and endorsing them. Even if you don’t agree with Tom’s political views you have to agree he has the right to complain! As for those of you who say you are in your 50’s and don’t recognize the name Boston as one of the best albumns ever, you leave me to wonder what rock you were living under while the rest of us were loving it and are now listening to it on our ipods!

Tom Scholz has every right to complain when somebody is using his music and impling that he and his band are on board and endorsing them. Even if you don’t agree with Tom’s political views you have to agree he has the right to complain! As for those of you who say you are in your 50’s and don’t recognize the name Boston as one of the best albumns ever, you leave me to wonder what rock you were living under while the rest of us were loving it and are now listening to it on our ipods!

I have never made a comment about Tom before and some people may get mad but here goes. It is and always has been about Tom, I have know one of the original members of Boston for a long time and the stories that could and should be told. The reason it took so long to release albums is because it’s all about Tom. This Music Clown will not let people that have been in the band use it to further their careers. Time get off your high horse and get real Tom. Gee I wonder why Brad killed himself did anybody ask why he was so depressed. Now Don’t give me they were planning a reunion stuff, I bet the $$$ would not be shared. When my radio show does Rock Stars Tom is one person I would Never Have on the Show. EVER!
It’s time for people to know Tom is not the person he seems to be. One person said it right he’s a Turkey and will NEVER have a hit again, He may try but the people in the industry know the real Head Case He is.

I am a huge Boston fan and will always be. I have no problem with Scholz not wanting his song used for Political reasons. However Tom, haven’t you taken enough shots at Barry G.? We all know you where the genius behind the music, but do you keep having to tell us? And tell us how insignificant Barry and Sid where? Let it go, and let Barry have some glory time. By the way you may have been the genius, but Brad Delp was the heart and soul. As Brad was layed to rest so was Boston of yesterday. I still love the music and listen to it almost everyday.

Where the hell is ASCAP or BMI when you NEED them? If it were a nobody doing this tune in a bar in the middle of nowhere, they’d sure want to know about it, take down names and write threatening letters to the venue. Huckabee isn’t above the law, no matter how stupid the laws may be.

Whether Tom likes it or not, Mike Huckabee is within his rights to use his music. Tom’s complaints would be comparable and just as ridiculous if Ralph Lauren said, “Gee Mike, I support Obama and don’t want you to wear my shirt or suit because I don’t agree with your ideology.” Or what if Mike had a tv on behind him during a rally and the tv show on was Oprah. Would we draw the conclusion that Oprah is a supporter of Huckabee? No a reasonable person would not assume these people support him?

Hey Tom,

You are making a big deal out of nothing. If Huckabee wants to jam your tune, let him. Be careful cause he may send Chuck Norris over to kick your butt…….

I am amazed by the endless stream of uninformed nonsense posted here. If anyone had slightly more than a pulse, they would recognize that Tom Scholz indeed has a reputation that far exceeds “Boston,” such as his DTS Charitable Foundation which donates millions of dollars to causes like creating homeless shelters and stopping world hunger. He is an accomplished individual with a Masters of engineering from MIT, and a patented inventor, so he has done things that make what most of you call his “has-been, 15 minutes of fame” pale by comparison. It is certainly within his right to make sure some conservative politician who supports tax breaks for the wealthy and government subsidized, faith-based charities, to not misrepresent one of his career achievements and suggest that a short-term band member (the REAL has-been) gets credit for his song. I’m sure on a virtue scale, Scholz has done far more for the advancement of humanity than Huckabee.

While I have no knowledge of Tom Scholz, all his detractors should realize he does have the right to confront Huckabee. Regardless what you may think of him. Quite frankly, I my opinion of Tom has increased due to the letter!

Karen, I assure you I am well into my 50s and am quite familiar with Boston and also hold a very strong opinion that they sucked then and now. I have never lived under a rock. Boston’s music was over-produced and extremely lame. Deal with it.

P Curley wrote:
***
“to lordgenesis – Can a city or a state copyright its name?? I don’t think so. How about Kansas, Chicago, Alabama, or New York City, or America. I don’t remember hearing any brouhaha about these groups violating any city or state’s “copyrights” when naming their group.”
***
LG’s response:
That was my point. Are we to assume that the city of Boston endorses drugged up, ego-centric rockers, PETA, or suicide? Most people are intelligent enough to distinguish between BOSTON and Boston, AMERICA and America, etc. They should be intelligent enough to figure out that the Huck is merely a fan of Boston’s music–not the other way around.

Evan-

OK, I understand what your saying but why are Scholz’s accoplishments any more relevant?
Huckabee is a former “faith-based” leader and has the same principles that you say Scholz has. Even if it is on a smaller “virtue scale” does it make Huckabee any less giving?
Dosen’t seem like a valid argument. The problem I have is that Scholz decided to take a stand without consulting any other bandmembers (past or present). I wonder if they’re ALL in agreement with him. I bet not.

If a wanna-be rockstar was using my material I’d be livid. And I’d be horrified to hear Huckabee trying to play it. This has happened in past campaigns and the candidates know the rules. Scholz has every right to stop him!

Lord Genesis, did you learn that kind of “logic” in seminary?
Let me give you an example: McDonald’s is well recognized brand name.
if someone opened a fast-food restaurant named McDonald’s, or even used the trademarked golden arch, they would be clearly copyright/trademark infringing.
on the other had if someone opened a “McDonald’s oil and brakes”, a vehicle service facility, they would not be in any way using McDonald’s the fast food name to their advantage or otherwise infringing.
Even opening a pub with a name of “Old McDonald’s Brew and Sports” would not be an infringement,because the product that is being sold is completely different.

ON THE OTHER HAND a band claiming to have any relationship to a band named Boston, and in this case ripping off Boston’s song and claiming to have taken a part in making it, is a very clear case of copyright/trademark infringement.

For someone who is an ordained minister, this kind of THEFT and LYING is unacceptable.

Man! I thought Journey was the greatest band of all time. Boston is over played and they suck! I just wish all entertainers would keep their political opinions to themselves. I will not wake up tomorrow morning and say damn I’m voting for a Democrat.

Tom did write the songs but the sound was really Brad’s and Barry’s.This is not an opinon but based on fact! God bless Brad a true saint. Peace to all.

Kevin –
I’m not sure that any other band member’s opinions really matter since the band Boston has been a revolving door of musicians over the course of its existence and the only other lifelong member is now dead. But as the songwriter and , Scholz is right to feel that his name is forever tied to that song and isn’t being unreasonable as some people make him out to be. My comments about his accomplishments are primarily in rebuttal to those who dismiss him as a has-been musician who has done little else in his life to warrant any opinion whatsoever, in turn suggesting that Huckabee has done so much more.

Gee…everybody here is all over the place on this one…people: the issue here is Hukkelberry’s unwaranted use of this song without permission and using it as a sort of political athem. Don’t fool yourselves into thinking otherwise;it’s not any diffrent then when Bill Clinton used the “Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow” song (whose artist escapes me know).I’ll put my 2 cents here: it’s really ironic that such a right wing nut like Mr.Hukkleberry Hound who wants to amend the constitution into a theocracy, would want to associate himself and his followers with a band that looks like his polar opposite and, in this case, with a band member who supports a different presidential candidate whic is Mr.Obama. One last thing: YOU BIGOTS AND IGNORANT FACISTS (ANNE COULTER, RUSH-THE-DRUGGIE-I-NEED-M Y-VIA GRA-LIMBOUAG AND BILLO) STOP WITH THE OSAMA-BIN LADDEN OBAMA ANTI-CHRIST REHTORIC!!!IT JUST SHOWS HOW STUPID YOU ARE!!

Get a grip man,

Although I agree with you . I would’ve asked first, but really man, Huckabee really rocks. He brought your music to a whole new generation of young people and black people like me with no interest in Boston or the group whatsover, I wanted to go out and buy your cd, Now Id rather buy Mikes verson instead. you see my man its not just a political thing or personal thing . Its just a feeling im sure you can relate. Philadelphia

To “I’m surprised you can breathe”

This is not a copyright infringement issue. It is simply an end-user enjoying someone’s creation. Much like the person who invented the toilet is not concerned with the beliefs of people who take a dump in it. I’m sure Armani doesn’t complain when his suits are worn by candidates on both sides. I’m speaking as a musician. (Where did you get that seminary jab anyway?)

Gee…everybody is all over the place here…the point is Mr.Hukklebbery’s unwaranted use of Mr.Scholz’s song and Mr.Shol’z not wanting to be associated with Mr.Hukelberry’s campaign in any way, shape, or form. Is this so bad???? Definitely not!! It only hurts those in the Hukelbery camp who, if they had their way, would amend our precious constinution and turn us into a theocracy taking away all our cherished freedoms and ironically making us more like the terrorist we despise!!BEWARE OF RELIGIOUS NUTS!!

His claim that his song is forever tied to Mikes campaign is ridiculous. When he looses people will forget all about him. Think back..what songs were played 4 years ago at campaigns for the people running for president? I have no clue and we will forget this one too and Mr. Boston can go on living. I love that song. People need to get over themselves and stop ruling what kind of music people find inspirational. Let them listen and rally around it.

The hostility and ignorance of some of the people on this board is amazing.

It’s great that Huckabee likes More than a Feeling but he should be respectful of Tom’s concerns. And Tom is hardly the first to speakup on the issue. Tom Petty doesn’t like John McCain using his song “I won’t back down”, Bruce Springsteen didn’t like Reagan using “Born in the USA.” Isaac Hayes didn’t like it when Bob Dole used “Soul Man” (reworded as Dole Man). And the list goes on…

The reality, it appears, is that politicians can use the music at events without permission but if they use it in any form of advertising then things get more complicated.

It should come as no surprise that many rock musicians object to their music being used by right wing candidates. Many right wing candidates speak of promoting freedom while trampling the Bill of Rights. It’s appalling that someone like Bush would take an oath to protect and defend the Constitution and then create secret prisons for torture, violate Americans right to due process, spy on people without basis of suspicion in violation of the search and seize amendment, disregard habeas corpus, etc.
(And if someone like McCain comes into power that will surely continue this crap as he’s just a contunuation of the same destructive policies.)

I’m with Tom all the way! Better that he speak up and let’s people know that he does not support Huckabee than he remain quiet and leave some with the false impression that he does.

There is no law that says people can’t play his music! What a loser! No one is endorsing any thing so long as he isn’t selling it to people. LOSER! LOSER! LOSER and an idiot too! He is just mad because he is a Dem and Huckabee is a Rep.

Too bad Scholz Was the one that sucked on the exhaust pipe.

It’s Tom’s song and no one (especially a politician) has the right to use it without his permission.

The man is just performing the song like a group of skinny -tatooed punks might do in their garage. The most that the creator can ask of Huckabee is to pay royalities for playing the song in public.

The creator cannot control who does and does not play his song because it has been offered for public use through recordings and published sheet music.

Just like he cannot come into your house and demand you not to play “More than a feeling” on your cd/stereo system because you are a conservative.

I bet there would be furor if somebody was using biblical hymns while pushing, say, SATANISM!!! Right-wing nuts always want what they want without respect of anyone else, but they’ll be crying when they feel they have been vivtimized which how the always feel when somebody disagrees with them. THEY ARE CLASSIC PERPETRATORS OF THE BULLY AND THE VICTIM SYNDROME.

I might be a bit biased here because I can respect Tom Scholz for his “Feeling” but on the other hand if right wing freakazoid Ted Nugent wanted to prevent Hillary from using “Cat Scratch Fever” I’d tell him to go f himself.

I’m not a Boston fan, devil-worshipping, mom-chainsawing metalhead that I am. However, I must stand up for the guy, given some of the vapid, bone-headed, self-righteous comments I see here.

His achievements have already been commented on here, so I won’t re-hash them. I will say, however, that the guy did not achieve these things by sitting around being a pot-smoking hippie.

The comments about Scholz being an egotist are ridiculous and show a clear lack of knowledge about the creation of music. There are certain musicians who have a very clear vision of what they want their music to sound like. If they are picky about whom they choose to help them realize their vision, that is perfectly reasonable and within their rights. If their vision results in a revolving door of musicians, so be it. Many well-known musicians have done this. It does not reveal a character flaw. Character flaws aside, did Frank Sinatra have a loyal core of musicians who backed him up throughout his career?

Would Mike Huckabee want Vaginal Carnage or Cliteater or Bestial Mockery singing his praises onstage or in the studio?

The band Boston is certainly entitled to the same amount they’d get if I played their song on a juke box in any public place. That is 25 or 50 cents. Everybody send a quarter when they watch Huckabee’s band, and maybe Scholz will shut up.

Hitler played music by the Rolling Stones, and Mick and Keith didn’t care.

Boston nor Tom Scholz appears listed on BMI which might have given them some kind of protected rights on their work but Epic knows about all that. Big splashy guitars and pretty lyrics.
Note:
Politicians, don’t cop people’s music to further your personal endeavors. It’s stealing! If you don’t give a s*it about them, you sure won’t give a s*it about us.

*More Than A Feeling
Boston
Pop Chart #5 Sept 18, 1976
Epic Label #50266
Spearheaded by Tom Scholz (guitars and keyboards)
and Brad Delp (lead vocals). Originally a quintet.
Group also included Barry Goudreau (guitar)
Fran Sheehan (bass) Sib Hashian (drums).
1986 return of Boston as duo Tom Scholz & Brad Delp.

*Notes from Joel Whitburn Top Pop Singles 1955-1990

Read more on Boston (concise story)
http://www.musicianguide.com /biographies/1608000220/Boston .html

Mike “always a fatso to me” Huckabee is one scary fucker.

I think Tom Scholtz has every right to put a stop to the public use of the ART pice he created in “What A Feeling”. (by the way KEVIN he is the only living member of the Original BOSTON) If Huckabee wants to use someones art / song then he should take a lesson from Arnold Gov of the state of California when he had Dee Schnider of “Twisted Sister” actually appier with him on his campaine trail

I think Tom Scholtz has every right to put a stop to the public use of the ART pice he created in “What A Feeling”. (by the way KEVIN he is the only living member of the Original BOSTON) If Huckabee wants to use someones art / song then he should take a lesson from Arnold Gov of the state of California when he had Dee Schnider of “Twisted Sister” actually appier with him on his campaine trail

to top banana (post at 5:58pm) You said the artist of “Don’t Stop “Thinkin About Tomorrow” esacaped you. it was by another 70’s act Fleetwood Mac, with Christine Mcvee, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks

Performing Rights Licenses

Each time your song is performed in public, you are entitled to receive royalty income for that public performance. It doesn’t matter whether your song is performed by a live band, or if a recorded version of your song is played. Both can qualify as a public performance. That means your song is performed publicly when a recording of it is broadcast on a radio station, when it is played as part of a television program or when it is played in a nightclub. To comply with copyright law, the radio station, television network, or club must have a performing rights license authorizing the public performance.

With some limited exceptions, performing rights apply only to the song and not to the sound recording. Each time a song is performed publicly, the songwriter – but not the recording artist singing the song or the record company that released the record – is entitled to receive compensation.

To eliminate the need to negotiate a separate license with each radio station, night club, and restaurant that wants to perform their song, songwriters or their music publishers affiliate with performing rights societies. ASCAP, BMI and SESAC are the performing rights societies in the United States. These associations specialize in negotiating performing rights licenses and collecting performing rights royalties. The societies often negotiate blanket licenses with radio stations, television networks, and restaurants that allow those organizations to perform any song in the catalog of the performing rights society issuing the blanket license.
—————————– –
What that basically means is that anyone can play the song publicly as long as they pay a performing fee (small amount to the songwriter…not to the whole band).

That means Huckabee can perform the song publicly as well as a pot-smoking wannabe band in some run down bar down the street who call themselves “liberal”.

If Scholz contracts only people who he likes to play the song, he would
have to give up all his “fee rights” that he is collecting from radio stations, nightclubs,etc so he could exclude the ones he don’t want performing the song.

The man is still making money on the Boston songs, so you think he will lose all that money just to keep Huckabee from playing “More Than a Feeling”?????

He can only request Huckabee to stop playing the song….he can’t enforce it unless he wants to lose lots of money.

I think Boston should start touring again and hire the singer who was singing More Than a Feeling for Huckabee’s band…they did a really good job, and the singer almost has the voice range of Brad Delp.

I think the only voices on this board that are in favor of shotz’s petty spat with the good Gov. are schotz’s himself. all the posts that faovr schotz are very similiar. what does schotz just sit and post on this board all day long to protect his damaged rep.?

I now have “more than a feeling” for the band Boston, Its a gassy, crampy, I could give a 8hit kinda feeling.

Schotz wanted publicity, he got it, I think he should pay Huckabee for the free press….

Can’t believe the ignorance of schotz calling a former gov. dude.
that is just rude and crude.You would maybe expect this immature behavior from a kid but isnt schotz an AARP member now?

I think he was more concerned about the statement that implied the band Boston endorsed Huckabee, than the use of the tune. I think politicians should say they use a song because they like it, or it inspires them, or it expresses what they feel. I don’t think they should claim or even imply that an artist or a band endorses them unless there is an official announcement by the artist.

Scholz is the ultimate hypocrite! He is a communist sympathizer who wants “social justice” for his own, but anyone who opposes his deep-left agenda should be silenced! As pointed out abve about the licensing fees, anyone can perform a song, and Barry Goudreau has every right to play any Boston song he wants to! He is not saying he wrote the song, just the fact that he WAS an original member of the group BostoN. Sorry Tom!! This is America, not the soviet CCCP!
I would think someone so “humane” and “caring” about “life on earth” wouldn’t mind a candidate who is trying to abolish the murder of millions of human beings!!! We see through your phony persona Scholz! (This is only an opinion posted by an American citizen who has the right to speek freely uner the First Amendment of the Constitution of the USA!)

I think what Tom was mad at was the way the singer screwed that fine song up. She is horable at singing and that may cause him to lose. But, and speaking of Butt, she does have a very fine 1 only as long as she is face down so I dont have to hear that voice.

John in Chicago

I think what Tom was mad at was the way the singer screwed that fine song up. She is horable at singing and that may cause him to lose. But, and speaking of Butt, she does have a very fine 1 only as long as she is face down so I dont have to hear that voice.

John in Chicago

One of Huck’s campaign managers said the song has not been played since the Iowa campaign.

I just want to know why Ted Nugent is not campaigning with Huck. He endorsed him back in December. Maybe we’ll see Huck playing Cat Scratch Fever with Ted for the Texas primary.

Way to go Boston! Huck is noting but a religous nut case who critized President Clinton lieing but he himself saind he graduated from Seminary, but come to find out he dropped out. At least Bill didn’t lie about God. I love txhe saying,” God save us from your followers!”. I sure as heck won’t vote for the idiot! I don’t need someone telling me how to live, who to marry, and who to hate!

“Lorenzo | 2/16/2008, 6:11 am EST

I think the only voices on this board that are in favor of shotz’s petty spat with the good Gov. are schotz’s himself. all the posts that faovr schotz are very similiar. what does schotz just sit and post on this board all day long to protect his damaged rep.? ”

Hey Lorenzo – nice spin, but we all know that Mike Huckabee’s freaky FOX Network-worshipping NeoNazi Republicans are hard at work polluting this page with all pro-Fuckabee/anti-Scholz propaganda. If you thought about it, wouldn’t most musicians side with a musician and not some ex-tub-of-shit right wing fanatic?

Basically his letter comes down to two things:

1. He wants to make sure EVERYBODY knows he wrote and produced and sang and played the song – got it.

2. Boston doesn’t endorse candidates. HE is Boston and HE is an Obama supporter.

So, we now know that he is a narcissitic, Obama supporter.

As far as Huckabee (or anyone else, for that matter) playing a cover of this song… if Mr. Scholz sold the song (I’m not interested enough to do the research) then he doesn’t have anymore say in where and how it is played. If he didn’t then he does.

I think the letter was disingenuous anyway, he obviously was plugging Obama and his (Tom’s) political views.

Tom Scholz:

Seems to have a big chip on his shoulder and it is easy to see why from reading his letter anyone who deals with him to long could become depressed and suicidal . this man preaches to
support peta, be a vegetarian and philanthropy but the comments in his letter regarding barry goudreau are insulting to say the least Mr. scholz does not come across as a person who treats his who treats his fellow man well I have had the pleasure of meeting each member of the original boston except mr. scholz and they were all very pleasant Mr. scholz his band boston but he is the only member
who is not a boston native he is from toledo ohio speaking as a boston native I would appreciate that this very unpleasant man would change the name of the band that he is now the only original member of to Ohio, to save local residents the embarrasment of association with this egocentric wealthy annoying has been.
Brad Delp was the star of this band R.I.P not Tom Scholz but he thinks otherwise ! Keep Rockin in 2008 and remember
it is a compliment to
have someone perform your song Mr. Sholz should be flattered not insulted ??? But when your rich and chasing $$$$$ nothing else matters

I was a Hillary Clinton supporter until I went on to Obama’s website. Now I feel woozy, a little confused, perhaps hypnotized. I can’t stop saying “Yes we can, Yes we can, Yes we can.”

I also think Boston I is the greatest album ever made!

I think the real point is politicians can play what they want as long as they pay required licensing fees. However, a politician cannot and should not imply endorsement by the band. Huckabee went over the line bringing Godreaux up on stage representing him as “BOSTON” – particularly when Godreaux was really a hired musician for a series of tours – no more.

Siding with Tom on this one.
Huck’s use of a trademarked song for the purposes of advertising, and it should be seen as that, needs permission by the artist.. And a substantial payment if in agreement.

This is no different than NIKE playing the song to sell shoes w/o permission or payment.

Just in this case the Huckster is selling snakes.

I find myself in the uncomfortable position of having to agree with Tom, it is his song (and he will never let us forget that fact!). Perhaps though if he cared a bit less about the legalities of the world and more about the “feelings” of others, things would be much better for both him and the fans. Also, it pains me that he still minimizes the contributions of other members of the band.

what the heck is Barry doing supporting a nut like Huckabee?

Huckabee is a bigot, plain as that rug on Chuck Norris’ head.

I think everyone’s comments that just because Tom holds the copyright to the song, (if thats really true) then he gets to say who plays it is bullshit! All the copyright means is YOU GET PAID IF THEY DO!

rolling stone magazine sucks

They are a corporate skank machine

rock and roll does not need this skanky corporate publication

Both Scholz and Mellencamp are nothing but hippocryts…..of the worst kind, and can go straight to…..

I ‘ ve noticed alot of negitive comments thrown Tom Schultz’s way over this issue. You guys are idiots, Like him or hate him, the song and the band IS Tom Shultz’s work, and if you want to challenge it, do some research. I , as a musician understand Tom Schultz’s position, it’s about his RIGHTS! While with the rest of you, it’s a matter of jealousy. You NON Musician’s need to back out of a world you don’ t stick-up for, or even understand!
TOM SCHULTZ AND BARRACK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!

I have commented here and I am a musician and calls them as I see them and agree change the name of the band from boston to OHIO
since tom is the only original member and not a boston native
and learn to spell tom scholz name
correctly your spelling it like the seargent from hogans heroes ???

How does tom scholz sleep at night by suing anyone who disagrees with
him ! peace of mind indeed

Delp and Goudreau song Rockin away is better than anything tom has written in the last twenty years

I have commented here and I am a musician and calls them as I see them and agree change the name of the band from boston to OHIO
since tom is the only original member and not a boston native
and learn to spell tom scholz name
correctly your spelling it like the seargent from hogans heroes ???

How does tom scholz sleep at night by suing anyone who disagrees with
him ! peace of mind indeed

Delp and Goudreau song Rockin away is better than anything tom has written in the last twenty years

this guy needs to write his own song. he can name it “the bible thumping gay hating pro-life loving war mongering song.”

It’s the same as this possible made-up letter…………

Mr Obama;

I seen you distributing Dunkin Donuts to your supporters on TV. While I am glad you like our doughnuts (particually glazed chocolate), my company does not support your presidental campaign. In fact, we are more of a conservative-leaning company.

I would ask you not to consume any more Dunkin Donuts or hand them to supporters while you are being recorded for news programs. It gives the wrong message to the American people that we support your presidential aspirations.

CEO,
Dunkin Donuts

I don’t know what the hell you people are smoking. It’s an article about Mike Huckabee and Boston.

Mike Huckabee and Boston for fuck’s sake!!!

why doesn’t he play christian music???

I’m sure that Tom Scholz doesn’t complain when a conservative buys one of his lame albums. It is retarded for these rock stars to cry when someone plays one of their songs at some event.

News flash for you egocentric artists out there- I don’t care what you think; I listen for the purpose of entertainment, in fact the more I generally know about you the less likely I am to buy your one of your offerings.

So, using their logic I would have to read up on a song writer’s world views before I decide whether or not I can enjoy their art?

Tom Scholz, can I wash my car and listen to your music or do you not approve of using water for such things? How about when I’m driving to Walmart, can I listen to it then?

Tom Scholz made a financial decision to publish the song. In other words, allow people to purchase a license and play it live. He and the publisher not only financially gained from the people buying the music, they lend rights to the song to the purchaser for things like live performances. Anyone who buys a license from Harry Fox Agency or pays ASCAP royalties has rights to play the song live. Now he wants to go back on that decision and selectively let people play it. Sorry, dude. It don’t work that way. This is Governor’s rendition of the song, not a replay of the Boston’s song.

This is nothing more than peer-pressure censorship. All of you out there think about this seriously. If someone created a really great song that you wanted to play, and because the songwriter — who financially gained from you buying the sheet music — decided that you couldn’t play the song because he didn’t agree with your point of view, how would you feel? Tom is right about one thing. This is more than a feeling. It’s an ideal that we should all hold dear.

Let it go Tom. I doubt the good governor or his supporters gave it more than a passing thought.

Give me a break, this Tom Scholz dude is just another Ivory Tower Entertainer, so far Seperated with common people reality, that he still thinks there is a difference between the Democrats and Republicans, Hey Tom if you read this WAKE up, OPEN your eyes, both of these parties have been bought and paid for by the same corporations, and thats where their loyalty lies, does your too?

Tom should have worried about greater things like being a Christian Friend to Brad and then maybe Brad wouldn’t have killed himself. So if Huckabee is the opposite of what Tom and Boston stand for then I guess Tom is for going to hell, where possibly Brad is today. Nice going Tom.

This comment is directed toward “Whats up Chuck”, obviously a guy who isn’ t afraid to speak -up, sept he is too insecure to leave a name by his MOUTH!
1. If you REALLY WERE a gigging or songwritting musician, you would know where Scholz is comming from(ooh I spelled his name right, happy now piss ant?)
2. Tom Scholz didn’ t say anything about sueing anyone, just that he was offended, get your facts straight before running off at thew mouth there bozo.
3. When I said musician I guess I should have been more specific, I understand that there are many Air Guitar bedroom performing in front of a mirror musicians out there who deserve recognition, I apologize.

I’m sick of campaign songs. Who know less about rock music than politicians. We should make them write and record their own campaign songs…and then make fun of them!!!

I think Alice Coopers quote: “If you’re listening to a rock star in order to get your information on who to vote for, you’re a bigger moron than they are.
“, pretty much somes up the situation here.

Get Real Tom. Huckabee played More than a feeling because it’s a great song. No endorsement was ever implied.

I have been looking all over the web on for a famous songwriter and musician named Chuck Glisson and
all I found was some guy playing for a bar band named Outpatient the guys look like senior citizens with wigs on this can’t be you if it is you would be better off as a Air Guitar bedroom performing in front of a mirror musician than what your doing

Tom Scholz has been suing people for years what do you live under a rock ? and why would I leave my name on a stupid blog on rolling stone that would be pretty dumb duh!
also I have met the man who sings the song Brad delp and without his talent and voice this dumbass blog
would not exist!! No Doubt he was the force behind the band not Tom
anyone can write a song but it takes more to make the number one selling Debut lp. in history

Don’t forget to vote

I’d be upset too if some nut-job fundamentalist politican used my Boston song.

Yup, That’s me, I never made a atempt to hide my identification, but you sure made an attempt to hide yours. Yea, I play for “Outpatient”, and if it’s a bar band as you say, so what, you make it out like I should be ashamed of it, just because I don’ t play for some band that’s famous. You are such a hyprocrat. Critizing Tom Scholz by calling him a coporate estiblishment rock musician, and puting me down for being a “BAR” musician. What kind of magical musician are you? I don’t think you are a musician at all, just a trash talker. Go tune your “AIR” guitar and leave us “REAL musicians with “REAl” lives alone. Oh yea, you might add some credibility to your cause if you identified yourself too, anyway, look forward to hearing form the mystery musician who is better than the corporate rock rock star, and the guitarist in the “bar” band

Tom “The Great” is at it again. Please just go away! He played every note, he wrote ever word, blah, blah, blah. Me, me, me, me, me. We are so tired of this spoiled rocker. Rock on Fran, Sib, Barry. Rip Brad. Eat some meat Tom. I guess you never played a cover song before “More Than a Feeling”?

Tom

if you tell other candidates about this feud than maybe you can get your
revenge against Mike

just an idea

Dude

you should get over it because he is probably not going to win the primary
to be one of the candidates in the first place and plus all of the candidates one way or another are messed up anyways so you should worry
about it when he wins the primary then just sue him and he could get kicked out of the election anyways and another thing is that you’ve been in worser situations so this could be easy for you

How many of these ass-clowns would be on this page with a TOTALLY different story if Sholz was a Republican and he was telling Clinton not to use his music. Then Scholz would be brave and persecuted, not arrogant and pushy. Desperation from the people who will be losing the next election. They can’t talk about how great McCain is, so we get to hear about how Tom Scholz and Michelle Obama hate America.

Fro the record – fuck Hukkkabee.

Barry Goudreau is a much better guitarist than Tom. I’ve seen Boston in concert with the original band members. And I must say that Barry puts more soul and effort on the musical notes and strings. Barry’s guitar riffs sound more like the music on the albums than Tom’s.

Tom, you made it political mentioning Obama on the letter. Still Love Boston and the GOP

I said once, and I’ll Say in again, dosen’t matter whether you like Mr. Scholz as a person or as a musician, or even if like any of their music, THATS NOT THE POINT, Did you hear it that time?
The issue here is MIKE HUCKABEE, the presidential candidate is claiming endorcement by BOSTON, the rock band. When in fact, this is not true. If you want to rant about how much you hate Tom Scholz because he had a little luck with a record he put together over 30 years ago and you feel he isn’t humble enough about it, and THAT issue is REALLY that important to you, then go start a; “I hate Tom Scholz because….” Thread somewhere on the internet.

As far as (1) of you saying Garry Goudreau is a better guitarist, let me clue you in, Schulz played every instrument on the 1st album, the ONLY thing he did not do is the vocals. The electronics(special effects) were designed by Tom Schulz, OVER THIRTY YEARS AGO, and this equipment was revolutionary, before Digitech, before zoom, he designed patch bays and rack mount systems in ANALOG, that blows the current special effects away TODAY. That BOSTON sound requires the equipment Schulz designed, so to say that Garry sounded more like the record is FOOLISH. My guitar effects are a host os equipment from various MFR’s, but I use the ROCKMAN stereo chorus(ROCKMAN=Schulz), because even to his day, it’s the absolute best stereo chorus ever designed by ANYONE at ANY PRICE. Snub Schulz if you want, I personnaly think he made his splash in the world of rock guitar and it was a big splash!

Mr Scholz has never cared about anyone but himself as his actions with those around him including his own band shows. Mr Scholz has stated that Barry Goudreau was not of Boston. Why did he state during the Brad Delp Tribute that he was inviting the members of Boston – Past and Present to join him on stage for the final song. He has also stated on the web that when he looked across the stage he saw the familiar smile of Barry Goudreau that he remembered from the past. Tom – what is up with you. Is old age kicking in. I am close to your age and do not have any problems with my memory. Apparently it is selective memory. Mr Goudreau is a much better guitarist and person than Mr Scholz. Scholz – get over yourself and leave people alone. Law suits is not the answer to all issues. But apparently it is to you. That shows how loyal you truly are. Maybe you should check out Barry with Ernie and the Automatics and you will see a real guitarist in action. As others have said if it were not for Barry, Brad, Sib and Fran you would be nothing. (In case you forgot who they were – they were the real and original Boston)

Tom Sholz: shut the fuck up and stop being a grandstanding douchbag. Just keep sitting on your ass and collecting checks on that ONE over-rated album you made over THIRTY YEARS AGO. And don’t forget to screw over all your former bandmates (and drive them to suicide?) in the process. Oh yeah, and keep pretending that you are still relevant, and that people actually give a shit what you say.

And speaking of causing damage, how many fucking radio stations have you ruined with your crappy music? Loser.

The only real candidate is Ron Paul, The mainstream media has blacklisted him because he speaks the truth. Huckabee Obama Hillary , all schills for the same bankers that have been appointing presidents since at least 1970. The mainstream media is owned by these people so STFU with the stupid OBAMA GOP HUCKABEE BS. Anything that emanates from corporate media does not represent the interests of americans but the interest of very rich powerful elites at the top. Tom schultz seems like a smart guy, I find it sickening the media mindfucked him into going OBAMA. Understand partisan politics is like pro wrestling PHONY OPPOSTITION TO FOOL THE MASSES.

Ever notice the people that bash Tom Scholz either don’t know how to spell his name correctly,don’t know the first thing about him and Boston and/or are incapable of typing in coherent sentences?Listen “dudes” stop insulting the intelligence of Boston fans(by that I mean the people who actually know something about them) by posting your uninformed crap about Boston.To the other Boston fans:Walk On and Don’t Look Back!

re:jlane
Getchasum,is that you?Well it would be a proper gathering of ranting clueless people without Brad Delp’s psycho stalker.Do you still have the “Tom Scholz Murdered Brad Delp” T-shirt you had made up?Say “Hi” to Micki Delp for me and tell her that Heather Mills has NOTHING on her.

Tom, you should be glad someone is doing your songs, Lord knows you aren’t. By my veiw, if you’re still evolving, I figure a new album will be out in 2106. Big deal that you did all the parts, so does everyone else!

Has it occurred that what Huckabee did was ILLEGAL? He used a copy-written song without permission to promote his candidacy. Tom Scholz CAN SUE if he wishes. Its up to Tom what happens to his songs, and Huchabee just ruined Tom’s reputation because he didn’t ask Tom beforehand.

-= Right on Tom! =-

When a politician uses something you created from your heart and mind, without permission, to promote an idealolgy that is opposite of yours, who wouldnt be even a little angry?

I think you handled it with more tact than I would have, how cool!

Thanks for the music Tom!

To; “An actual Boston Fan”

If you are refering to me as miss spelling his name and bashing Boston, I did miss spell a name, BUT I was not bashing the band, in fact I gave Tom Shulz credit for doing most of the work on the Album HIMSELF, and praised his “ROCKMAN” line of special effects and precessors. I in fact use his “ROCKMAN” devises, he did a great job designing effects, in fact I submit, thats where he REALLY EXCELED

I’m tossing my Boston Cds in the trash today.

I’m tossing my Boston Cds in the trash today, sorry.

Please Tom, shut your pie hole and be happy that anyone still gives a chit about your very stale and dated music.

Speaking as someone who still has your first album, im glad to see Tom speaking out. Always follow your heart and u wont loose your way.

Thanks for your support dude.. ; )

So here I was driving in my car, air-guitaring the crap outta “More Than a Feeling” when I got home and decided to google it. That song just leaves me with such a happy, nostalgic… well, more than a feeling. I was really put off by this article I found and it completely dulled, soiled even, any good feelings I had about the song.

Regardless of who you supported in the election, Tom should be THRILLED that someone – anyone – is even paying his song any attention. Grow up. I loved Huckabee and I followed him pretty closely and I never heard or saw him play that song. Big deal.

The truth is, before I got home and found this article, I had half a mind to cover this song – legally, of course, which would’ve earned Tom a few royalty $$. But now, there’s not a chance in HELL I would touch it. I can live without BOSTON. Can Tom live without making another CURRENT record if no one bothers to remember his old as chit stuff?

All of you who think Tom Sholz sucks can go die. He can rip you apart on the guitar. He has a MASTERS in ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING at MIT!!!!!!! He is and will always be smarter than all of you, so just shut up.

Boston is a WORLDWIDE FAMOUS band whose members are rich beyond comprehension. Do you know why? THEY SOLD TICKETS. THEY GOT FUNDS. Does that spell it out for all of you? Or do i have to tell you? There music was obviously good, or they wouldn’t have sell-out concerts. All of you are lame.

Funny how BOSTON has “never endorsed a political candidate”, and yet in the next sentence declares support for Obama. Hmm.

Познавательно написано, действительно все читал буквально на одном дыхании

The behavior of these pompous assholes is exactly why I only buy music from yard sales. I DON’T WANT TO MAKE THESE ASSHOLE “ARTISTS” ANY RICHER THAN THEY ARE.

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I am from Belize and also now teach English, give true I wrote the following sentence: “Search and compare cheap flights to harrisburg across multiple online travel airline tickets usa cheap flights uk ireland cheap flights canada.”

Thank you so much for your future answers . Anne.

Still waiting to hear back from that guy who THINKS he is better than Tom Scholz because he feels that Tom Scholz is a “Corporate Sell out”, while at the same time feeling superior to ME because I play in a bar band.

Sorry dude with the big mouth and ego, you can air guitar at the mirror all night, and spend ALL your saturdays at Guitar Center,
but as far as I am concerned, you are nothing but a windbag.

As far as YOUR opinion of Tom Schulz, YOU could NEVER be accused of being a “Corporate Sell Out”, because you can’t sell out with somthing that isn’t there.

I ran across this page while googling for information about Brad Delp and was dumbstruck at the vilification of Tom Scholz by people who clearly have no idea what they’re talking about.

Mr. Scholz had every right, both legal and ethical, to ask the Huckabee campaign to stop creating the erroneous impression Huckabee had the political support of the creator of “More Than A Feeling.”

The irrational animosity and hatred displayed by many posters here says more about their own unhappy lives than it does about Mr. Scholz.

Hey. Is love supposed to last throughout all time, or is it like trains changing at random stops. If I loved her, how could I leave her? If I felt that way then, how come I don’t feel anything now?
I am from Burkina and also now’m speaking English, tell me right I wrote the following sentence: “Yellow pages online for modular homes dealers in north carolina.”

With respect :p, Brilliant.

Tom,
As a long time Boston fan, and NOT an Obama supporter, lighten up. He’s playin your stuff a “quarter century” after you stopped playing it. Why don’t you try writing a new song? We miss your talent.

Any musician can get a license to play that song publicly without Scholz permission. Check out the Harry Fox Agency and you will see the whole story above is much ado about nothing. Huckabee probably owes Scholz a few bucks max. My band licensed 2000 units of ‘Quick Joey Small’ for 14 bucks. ‘Rocking in the Free World’, 2000 units 14 bucks. Tom knows all about licensing fees and is using this whole thing as a promotional gimmick himself.