The Mysterious History of the 1960s Band, Steam
Steam, a band best known for their hit song “Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye,” was a storytelling figure that captivated audiences for a moment. But what happened to this group after their single rose to fame? This article dives deep into the story of Steam and its mysterious origins.
Commercial Success and Early Struggles
With "Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye" topping the US singles chart in 1969, Steam achieved a brief but notable success. However, following the release of their iconic hit, the band faced numerous challenges that eventually led to their disbandment. This section will explore the band's commercial struggles and the internal lineup changes that affected their ability to maintain momentum.
Lineup Changes and Disbandment
Significant lineup changes are common in the music industry, especially for groups that suddenly find themselves gaining unexpected attention. Paul Leka, one of the main songwriters, continued his career as a producer and songwriter. Gary DeCarlo, another key member, pursued a solo career, but with limited success. By the early 1970s, Steam had effectively disbanded.
Truth Behind the Band#39;s Origin
It was later revealed that Steam was not a touring or recording band in the traditional sense. The band's lineup and existence were actually a fabrication created by Gary DeCarlo, Dale Frashuer, and Paul Leka. These three musicians had previously worked together in a vocal band called The Glenwoods in Bridgeport, Connecticut in the early 1960s.
After The Glenwoods disbanded, the trio wrote "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye" in 1961. Despite various setbacks, Leka eventually landed a gig as a studio vocalist at Mercury Records in New York City. DeCarlo and Leka recorded four singles together, and one of those was "Sweet Laura Lee," which needed a B-side. This led to the resurrection of the Glenwoods' song for commercial purposes.
The Song's Success and Legacy
The song "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye" became an unexpected success, reaching number one on the US singles chart in 1969. The track has sold over 6 million copies and has remained a beloved staple in the music world, making Steam a 'one-hit wonder.' Leka's production work and songwriting continued to be successful, with collaborations with REO Speedwagon, Gloria Gaynor, and Harry Chapin.
Post-1969 Career Paths
After the song's success, DeCarlo's career in music saw mixed fortunes. He had some success with the song being covered by artists like The Supremes, Bananarama, and The Nylons, and became a part of the organist tradition at Comiskey Park. Despite this, DeCarlo largely disappeared from the music scene for many years. He made a comeback in 2012, releasing a new version of "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," and passed away in 2015 at the age of 75. Dale Frashuer also disappeared from public view but likely enjoyed a comfortable life off the royalties from the song. Paul Leka's legacy continued in the music industry, living until 2011.