Second Chance

Rediscover .38 Special's biggest career hit, the powerful 1989 soft rock ballad "Second Chance." From the album "Rock & Roll Strategy," this emotional plea for reconciliation topped the Adult Contemporary chart and became a massive crossover success, showcasing a different side of the renowned Southern rockers.

Released on .38 Special's 1988 album "Rock & Roll Strategy," "Second Chance" marked a significant stylistic shift for the band, becoming a major hit single in 1989. This quintessential soft rock power ballad, featuring lead vocals by Max Carl, utilized prominent keyboards and heartfelt lyrics. Its departure from their signature hard rock sound connected with a vast audience, defining a new peak of mainstream success.

"Second Chance" soared into the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and hit number one on the Adult Contemporary chart in 1989, revitalizing .38 Special's chart presence. Co-written by Max Carl, Jeff Carlisi, and Cal Curtis with Survivor's Jim Peterik, its powerful emotional appeal and soft rock polish made it ubiquitous on late-80s radio, becoming their highest-charting and most enduring pop hit.

SONG MEANING: "Second Chance" is a poignant appeal for forgiveness and an opportunity to repair a broken relationship, often interpreted as being directed towards a child or estranged partner. The lyrics express deep regret for past actions ("I'm not fooling myself / It's gonna take time") and plead for another opportunity ("Just give me a second chance") to prove love and commitment.