Table of Contents
In the world of rock music, many bands aspire to make their mark with a standout debut single. While some achieve instant recognition, others experience gradual growth. The story of Survivor, a band that emerged in the late 1970s, exemplifies this journey, showcasing how a single spark ignited their flame of fame.
Formed in 1978, Survivor was not just another group of aspiring musicians. Their founder, Jim Peterik, had previously led a band known as The Ides of March, which had enjoyed significant success with the hit “Vehicle.” Initially considering a shift towards songwriting and producing, Peterik found inspiration in guitarist Frankie Sullivan, leading to the creation of Survivor. The band name itself carries a poignant backstory, referencing a near-fatal plane crash that Peterik narrowly escaped.
The band’s humble beginnings
Survivor’s self-titled debut album, released in 1979, did not capture much public attention. This modest start saw the band undergo lineup changes, particularly with a new bassist and drummer, before releasing their sophomore effort, Premonition, in 1981. This album would prove to be a turning point, introducing a song that would finally grant them the recognition they had long sought.
Emergence of a Top 40 hit
With “Poor Man’s Son” as the lead single from *Premonition*, Survivor crafted a sound that resonated with audiences. Co-written by Peterik and Sullivan, the track showcased a tight rock groove, complemented by the powerful yet controlled vocals of lead singer Dave Bickler. This combination allowed the song to carve a niche on rock radio and even reach the pop charts, peaking at an impressive No. 33.
While the success of “Poor Man’s Son” opened doors for Survivor, it was merely a precursor to an even grander opportunity. Shortly after its release, the band caught the attention of the film industry, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in their careers.
A serendipitous connection
Hollywood heavyweight Sylvester Stallone recognized the powerful role music plays in film. His iconic movie *Rocky* would not have had the same emotional resonance without the unforgettable score composed by Bill Conti. As he began work on *Rocky III*, Stallone sought a rock anthem that could match the film’s intensity, recalling the sound of Survivor’s earlier hit.
A new song emerges
Initially, Stallone envisioned incorporating Queen’s hit “Another One Bites The Dust” into the film’s soundtrack. However, when rights to the song fell through, he turned to “Poor Man’s Son”, recognizing its potential to capture the essence he desired. Stallone reached out to Jim Peterik with a unique proposition: could Survivor create a new song inspired by their earlier hit, but with lyrics that aligned more closely with the themes of the film?
The band accepted the challenge, ultimately composing the legendary track “Eye Of The Tiger”. This song not only became a defining anthem for *Rocky III*, but also soared to No. 1 on the charts, propelling Survivor into the heights of rock stardom. Without the groundwork laid by “Poor Man’s Son”, the band might not have achieved such monumental success.
Survivor’s trajectory exemplifies how the music industry often intertwines with other realms, like film, to create lasting legacies. The band’s initial struggle, followed by the fortuitous encounter with Stallone, illustrates how a modest beginning can lead to extraordinary outcomes. With the help of a pivotal hit, Survivor not only carved out a place in rock history but also demonstrated the power of music in storytelling.