Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – March 16, 2025
In early 1974 an American rock band thar was formed in San Francisco eight years earlier made it to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
However, what they never envisioned was reaching the top of the UK Charts sixteen years later in September 1990 thanks to the use of the song in the “Great Deal,” a television advertisement for Levi’s. In fact, this reissue reached the top of the Irish Singles Chart, the New Zealand Singles Chart, the Dutch Nationale Top 100, and the Dutch Top 40 that year.
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The initial success of the song helped push the band’s album of the same name to platinum status, propelling them into the mainstream and securing their place in rock history. The single itself was certified 5× platinum, reaching over five million sales.
The song’s catchy, laid-back groove combined with the lead guitarist’s distinctive vocal delivery made it a memorable anthem. Its lyrics were inspired by a variety of sources, including the guitarist’s experiences with wordplay and his love for classic pop culture. The character featured in the song is drawn from various influences, including a trickster figure and playful references to being “a midnight toker” or “space cowboy.”
The single became one of the band’s signature songs, showcasing their ability to blend humorous, cryptic storytelling with infectious melodies, making it one of the band’s most enduring tracks.
As the Steve Miller Band found out, sometimes being “The Joker” can lead to widespread commercial success and it’s this week’s Tom Locke moment in time.
YouTube listing of the song: Click here.
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
