
On this day May 11, 1981, Marty Balin, cofounder and former lead singer of Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship, released his debut solo album Balin. Stepping out on his own, the album showcased a softer, more romantic side of his voice with polished production and smooth rock ballads.
Balin reached number 35 on the US Billboard charts and featured the hit Hearts, which became one of his biggest solo singles. The album helped him establish a new identity apart from his psychedelic and arena rock roots.
Fun fact: Hearts peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple on soft rock and adult contemporary playlists.
Balin reached number 35 on the US Billboard charts and featured the hit Hearts, which became one of his biggest solo singles. The album helped him establish a new identity apart from his psychedelic and arena rock roots.
Fun fact: Hearts peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple on soft rock and adult contemporary playlists.