Rockin' the Paradise

Get ready for Styx's electrifying anthem, "Rockin' the Paradise"! This high-energy 1981 rock track from the Paradise Theatre album kicks things off with pure arena rock power. A perennial concert opener, its driving beat and celebratory vibe perfectly capture rock 'n' roll excitement.

Serving as the explosive opening rock number on Styx's 1981 chart-topping concept album Paradise Theatre (following the intro "A.D. 1928"), "Rockin' the Paradise" immediately establishes an energetic atmosphere. Co-written by key band members, this quintessential arena rock song represents the excitement surrounding the fictional theater's grand opening, blending powerful guitars, dynamic keyboards, and anthemic vocals into a signature Styx sound.

Released as part of the Paradise Theatre album around January 19, 1981, "Rockin' the Paradise" became a defining concert opener and fan favorite, perfectly capturing the energy of Styx's live performances. Though not released as a commercial single, its driving rock rhythm, powerful instrumentation, and triumphant feel made it a key track within the album's story and a staple of rock radio.

SONG MEANING: Within the narrative framework of the Paradise Theatre concept album, "Rockin' the Paradise" depicts the excitement and energy of the fictional theater's grand opening night during its heyday. The lyrics convey a sense of making history and celebrating the power and thrill of a live rock and roll event ("We'll be rockin' in paradise"), setting a triumphant tone for the album's story arc.