About the song
“A Man I’ll Never Be” stands as a poignant testament to introspection and emotional depth within Boston’s repertoire, originating from their second album *Don’t Look Back*, released in 1978. Penned by the band’s visionary Tom Scholz, the song diverges from Boston’s trademark rock anthems, revealing a more contemplative side that resonates with themes of identity and vulnerability.
**Writing and Recording**
Tom Scholz, known for his meticulous approach to songcraft, composed “A Man I’ll Never Be” shortly after finalizing its musical arrangement. Featuring Brad Delp on lead and backing vocals alongside Scholz on guitars, organ, and piano, the recording also enlisted drummer Sib Hashian. Despite being primarily recorded at Scholz’s Hideaway Studio, logistical constraints led to the piano parts being recorded at Northern Studio in Maynard, Massachusetts. This unconventional split in recording locations underscored Scholz’s commitment to achieving sonic excellence.
**Lyrics and Musical Composition**
Contrasting sharply with Boston’s earlier high-energy hits, “A Man I’ll Never Be” delves into introspective territory. AllMusic critic Tim Sendra highlights its departure from the band’s debut album, noting its “reflective side” absent in their previous work. The song’s emotive lyrics and Scholz’s signature guitar solo contribute to its atmospheric quality, with Rolling Stone’s Ken Emerson drawing parallels to Led Zeppelin’s epic “Stairway to Heaven.”
Greil Marcus, writing for New West magazine, interprets the song as an exploration of personal inadequacy in the face of idealized expectations. He praises its thematic bravery, emphasizing the protagonist’s struggle with self-perception and the quest for authenticity amidst emotional turmoil. This sentiment is echoed by critics who note the song’s “religious feel” and “ponderous ballad sound,” as described by Billboard’s Paul Grein.
**Reception and Legacy**
Released as a follow-up single to the chart-topping “Don’t Look Back,” “A Man I’ll Never Be” peaked at No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100, resonating slightly better in Canada at No. 27. Its inclusion on Boston’s Greatest Hits album in 1997 solidified its status as a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the band’s discography.
Critically acclaimed for its musical complexity and lyrical depth, “A Man I’ll Never Be” continues to be celebrated as one of Boston’s masterpieces. Its live performances during the band’s early tours showcased its emotional resonance, with Brad Delp’s commanding vocal delivery leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
**Cover Versions and Tributes**
The song’s enduring legacy is further underscored by cover versions, including a notable rendition by Extreme in tribute to Brad Delp. Following Delp’s passing, Tommy DeCarlo paid homage with “A Man I’ll Always Be,” a heartfelt tribute that cemented his role as Boston’s new lead singer.
In sum, “A Man I’ll Never Be” remains a testament to Boston’s ability to blend introspective lyricism with intricate musical arrangements, leaving an indelible mark on rock music’s landscape with its profound exploration of human emotion and identity.
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Lyrics
If I said what’s on my mind
You’d turn and walk away
Disappearing way back in your dreams
It’s so hard to be unkind
So easy just to say
That everything is just the way it seems
You look up at me
And somewhere in your mind, you see
A man I’ll never be
If only I could find a way
I’d feel like I’m the man you believe I am
It’s getting harder every day for me
To hide behind this dream you see
A man I’ll never be
I can’t get any stronger
And I can’t climb any higher
You’ll never know just how hard I’ve tried
Cry a little longer
And hold a little tighter
Emotions can’t be satisfied
You look up at me
And somewhere in your mind, you see
A man I’ll never be
If only I could find a way
I’d feel like I’m the man you believe I am
And it gets harder every day for me
To hide behind this dream you see
A man I’ll never be
Can’t get any stronger
And I can’t climb any higher
You’ll never know just how hard I’ve tried
Cry a little longer
And hold a little tighter
Emotions can’t be satisfied
Oh, you look up at me
And somewhere in your mind, you still see
A man I’ll never be, no
If only I could find a way
I’d feel like I’m the man you believe I am
And it gets harder every day for me
I can’t keep hidin’ this feeling