A Voice Unfades: The Unexpected Gift of Dan Seals’ “Steal A Little Thunder”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Even in the years since his passing, the musical spirit of Dan Seals continues to resonate, a testament to the enduring power of his voice and the heartfelt honesty of his songwriting. Now, over a decade after he left us, a previously unheard track, “Steal A Little Thunder,” is poised to reintroduce his timeless sound to both devoted fans and a new generation of listeners. Set for release on April 4th, this unexpected gift arrives courtesy of a partnership with Nashville-based Melody Place, offering a poignant reminder of a talent that left an indelible mark on both pop and country music.
“Steal A Little Thunder” carries a particularly special significance, having been co-written by his late brother, Jim Seals, of the iconic duo Seals & Crofts, alongside Brian Whitcomb. This familial connection adds another layer of emotional depth to a song that already perfectly encapsulates Dan Seals’ signature ability to weave emotionally powerful lyrics with melodies that effortlessly lodge themselves in the listener’s heart.
Discovered within the archives of Seals’ unreleased material, the track feels like a serendipitous find, a lost treasure unearthed to enrich his already impressive legacy. It’s a song that instantly evokes the nostalgic warmth of Seals’ classic hits while simultaneously showcasing the enduring quality of his songwriting. The captivating storytelling, a hallmark of his finest work, is immediately apparent, wrapped in a rhythm that feels both familiar and inviting.
Dan Seals’ musical journey was one of remarkable versatility and enduring success. Spanning decades, his career garnered him numerous accolades, most notably an astounding 11 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. From his early days as one half of the soft rock sensation England Dan & John Ford Coley to his remarkable and triumphant solo career in country music, Seals consistently proved himself to be a musical force.
The songs that defined his country era, tracks like the infectious “Bop” and the evocative duet “Meet Me in Montana” with Marie Osmond, have become beloved staples, solidifying his place in the hearts of country music fans. “Steal A Little Thunder” feels like a natural extension of this cherished catalog, a missing piece that slots seamlessly into his rich musical tapestry.
This release marks the first new music to emerge from Dan Seals since his passing, making it a particularly poignant moment for those who admired his artistry. It serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting influence he had, and continues to have, on the country music world. His unique vocal timbre, capable of conveying both tenderness and strength, coupled with his knack for crafting songs that resonated with genuine emotion, have undoubtedly inspired generations of artists who followed in his footsteps. “Steal A Little Thunder” stands as further testament to this enduring musical legacy.
Dan Seals was never one to adhere to convention, a characteristic that defined both his life and his music. Born and raised in Texas, he famously played a right-handed 12-string guitar left-handed, utilizing only eight strings – a self-described “upside down and backwards” approach. This unconventional spirit permeated his entire career, allowing him to seamlessly navigate the transition from pop stardom to country music success.
His initial rise to fame came as “England Dan” in the popular soft rock duo England Dan & John Ford Coley. Their 1976 smash hit, “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight,” became an anthem of its era, cementing their place in pop music history. Other classics like “Nights Are Forever (Without You)” further solidified their popularity. However, when the duo disbanded, Seals faced personal and financial challenges, even finding himself temporarily without a stable home.
It was during this period of rebuilding that Seals resolutely embraced his country roots. In 1984, his single “God Must Be a Cowboy” marked his first foray into the country top 10, a pivotal moment that paved the way for an astonishing run of nine No. 1 Billboard country hits. Songs like the playful “Bop,” the cautionary tale of “Everything That Glitters (Is Not Gold),” and the enchanting “Meet Me in Montana” showcased his remarkable ability to blend deep emotional resonance with undeniable commercial appeal. His contributions to the genre were recognized with a CMA award and the unwavering loyalty of his fanbase.
Known for his artistic integrity, Seals reportedly only recorded songs that truly moved him. His longtime producer, Kyle Lehning, recalled his “light-hearted seriousness” in the studio, a testament to his dedication to excellence without losing his inherent warmth. Even when radio hits became less frequent, Seals remained a beloved touring act, later sharing the stage with his brother Jim as Seals & Seals, bringing their respective catalogs to appreciative audiences worldwide.
In 2007, Seals faced a new challenge with a diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma. He approached his final years with the same grace and quiet strength that characterized his music. He passed away on March 25, 2009, at 8:30 p.m. – a time his manager aptly referred to as “Showtime.” His legacy remains a powerful testament to versatility, authenticity, and an enduring impact that continues to resonate across the landscapes of both pop and country music. The release of “Steal A Little Thunder” is not just a new single; it’s a continuation of that legacy, a reminder that the music of Dan Seals, like a gentle breeze, still has the power to stir the soul.