Classic Rock
The song was written by Tom Scholz. It was released in 1976 as a single backed with “Smokin'” and on Boston’s 1976 debut album Boston. In 1976-77, the song went to #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, #4 on U.S. Cash Box Top 100, #4 in Canada, #9 in Switzerland, #11 in Australia and The Netherlands, #15 in New Zealand, #14 in Belgium, and #22 on the U.K.
Tom Scholz, a graduate of MIT, worked for Polaroid. He built a studio in his basement, which is where he first recorded “More Than a Feeling.” The song tells of how music can evoke memories. In this case the memories revolve around a lost love. Scholz said he was inspired by Left Banke’s song “Walk Away Renee.” The Marianne mentioned in the song is based on Sholz’s cousin of that name on whom he had a childhood crush. Once Boston had a record deal with CBS, they followed union rules and completed it in a proper studio.
On the track are Tom Scholz (acoustic and electric rhythm guitar, lead guitar, bass), Brad Delp (vocals), and Sib Hashian (drums). Boston has had many changes in personnel over the year. They continue to tour and perform.