Released in 1968, Steppenwolf's self-titled debut album introduced the world to the band's unique brand of rock and roll. Featuring the iconic hit "Born to be Wild," the album is a powerful statement of Steppenwolf's raw energy and rebellious spirit. This web-page will examine the historical and musical context of the album, as well as its impact on the wider music scene.
| Album Description: | Steppenwolf's self-titled debut album was released at a time of great change in the music industry. The psychedelic rock movement was in full swing, and bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones were pushing the boundaries of what was possible in popular music. Steppenwolf's self-titled album reflects this changing landscape, blending elements of rock, blues, and psychedelia into a powerful and dynamic sound. The album's iconic hit, "Born to be Wild," became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the time, and helped cement Steppenwolf's place in rock and roll history. Steppenwolf's self-titled debut album had a significant impact on the wider music scene, helping to establish the band as a major force in rock and roll. The album's unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia, combined with its powerful and rebellious lyrics, resonated with audiences around the world. "Born to be Wild" became an instant classic, and its impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. The song was later featured in the iconic movie "Easy Rider," further cementing its place in rock and roll history. |
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Music Genre: |
60s American Hard Rock |
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Album Production Information: |
Produced by Gabriel Mekler Sound/recording engineers Richard Podolor, Bill Cooper Recorded at American Recording Co Album cover art by Gary Burden Photography Tom Gundelfinger |
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Record Label & Catalognr: |
MCA Records 250 518 (250518) |
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Media Format: |
12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
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Year & Country: |
1980 Made in Germany |
Track Listing of: Steppenwolf - Self-titled |
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The Song/tracks on "Steppenwolf - Self-titled" are:
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Description
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Description
"Steppenwolf" Blue Sky with Rainbow MCA Records Record Label Details: MCA Records 250 519-1, LC 1056
Steppenwolf is a rock band formed in 1967 in Los Angeles, California. The band gained widespread popularity during the late 1960s and early 1970s with their unique blend of hard rock and psychedelic music, which was characterized by heavy guitar riffs, prominent basslines, and driving drumbeats.
The band's core members were vocalist John Kay, guitarist Michael Monarch, keyboardist Goldy McJohn, bassist Rushton Moreve, and drummer Jerry Edmonton. They released their debut album, "Steppenwolf," in 1968, which included the hit single "Born to Be Wild." The song became an anthem for the counterculture movement and was famously featured in the film "Easy Rider."
Steppenwolf's music was influenced by a variety of genres, including blues, folk, and rock and roll. Their lyrics often addressed themes of rebellion, social commentary, and spirituality. The band's name, "Steppenwolf," was inspired by the novel of the same name by Hermann Hesse, which explores the themes of individualism and the search for meaning in a conformist society.
Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, Steppenwolf released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "The Second," "At Your Birthday Party," and "Monster." These albums featured some of the band's most famous songs, such as "Magic Carpet Ride," "Rock Me," and "The Pusher."
Despite their success, Steppenwolf faced several challenges during their career. The band underwent several lineup changes, with Kay being the only consistent member throughout their history. Additionally, they struggled with substance abuse and legal issues, which led to several periods of inactivity. Despite these challenges, Steppenwolf's influence on rock music cannot be understated. Their music has been covered by countless artists and has been featured in numerous films and television shows. The band was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1996, and Kay was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 2018.
Steppenwolf's legacy lives on, and their music continues to resonate with fans around the world. Their hard-driving rock and roll sound and socially conscious lyrics continue to inspire new generations of musicians, and their influence on the genre remains undeniable.