-= 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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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)

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!

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

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.

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

Tom

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

just an idea

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”?

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

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

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 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’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!!!

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.

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.

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 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.

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?

why doesn’t he play christian music???

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!!!

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

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

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

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!

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

rolling stone magazine sucks

They are a corporate skank machine

rock and roll does not need this skanky corporate publication

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!

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

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

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.

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 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.

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!

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

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.

“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?

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!

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.

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

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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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?

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 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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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!!

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?)

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

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!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…….

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?

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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?

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

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.!

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.

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…

****************************** *****
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.

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.

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.”

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

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!

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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!

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

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

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!!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

So much to say…Scholz, You Suck!

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…

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

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.

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 Sholtz is the man, so Huckabee… FUCK OFF!

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

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

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.

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?

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.

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!

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.

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

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!

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?

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!!!

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!

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.”