Behind The Vinyl: 'Babe' with Dennis DeYoung from STYX

Founder/Former Lead Singer/Songwriter of STYX Dennis DeYoung dropped by the boom 97.3 studios once again to play "Babe" on vinyl! He talks about writing it for his wife's birthday, how he recorded it avoiding "demo poisoning", it's impact on the band and more! Watch as Dennis goes Behind The Vinyl!

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[DeanUSAman]

Suzanne DeYoung has had two absolute all time classic songs written for her Dennis... "Lady" and "Babe"...

[deanrobert]

That bit of noodling keys at the beginning is magic... absolutely no one at that moment could have known it'd become iconic. Fabulous

[glenc]

If I lived to be ten thousand years old; this would still be my all time favourite!!

[clamshell]

This was their only hit that reached number one. However, to me all their songs are number one. Styx is the best.

[TheHistrionics]

Dennis really does tell the best "behind the scenes" stories. His memory seems sharp and tru and his stories are clear, concise and detailed with a ton of background information that covers every aspect of the song.

[niallshaw]

This is rock solid proof that those with enormous talent talk about making "demos" that are timeless songs. Dennis DeYoung is an amazing songwriter, singer, instrumentalist, the list goes on. Describing this song as a demo is proof positive that you had to be amazingly gifted in the studio back then without auto tune or anything else. And he is so incredibly modest and self-effacing because he doesn't have to show off, he is just that good.

[Dusty]

This was/ is the soundtrack love song for the only woman that bared my child, a wonderful Son Who is turning 35 of all things today Thank You Sylvie.

[enriqueb.]

Thank you Mr. De Young for this beautiful ballad. It has been one of my favorites since 1980. I was only 14 then but it has always meant alot to me, even to this day.

[charliethumbs]

Fascinating to hear all of the stories behind these songs.

[BrianPDowning]

I watched most of these Behind The Vinyl videos and Dennis is just about the most winning interviewee. His self-deprecation and humor are all wrapped up in a tight story that he, somehow, makes last as long as the particular song in question.

[raideenj]

Great story, would never have guessed was just a "demo tape" cause it sounds masterfully done. Makes sense, this is an expression of love for the love of his life and people can feel that.

[alejandraahmed]

God bless you, Dennis Deyoung for giving us this song! Love you!

[Beventry]

I heard this song in the radio stations in São Paulo between 80's and 90's growing up there, what a powerful ballad that stays in your heart forever specially if you listen to it night time.

[PikesvilleAl]

Tommy Shaw and JY never got over Dennis making the only #1 Styx song by himself (with the twins help)

[johneldridge]

Dennis's wife's sister, Dawn, asked me to go to the Styx concert with her. It was around 1980-81 I THINK. In North County, in San Diego. I didn't know she was related to Dennis. We had just met. She picked me up at my house and there was a Limo waiting out there. I was shocked. I got in the Limo and Dawn, introduced me to her sister and told me this is her sister and Dennis De Young's wife. I couldn't believe it. We went to the concert and we obviously had GREAT seats. When they sang the song "Babe" Dennis came over to where we were sitting and sang it to his wife. It was incredible. We got to go back stage and met Linda Blair and other celebrities. Time of my life. I was 18, or 19 years old. Rest in peace Dawn.

[jayzeagerauctioneer]

I had a chance to interview Dennis many years ago when I was in radio and he brought a little Casio in the studio with him and played a number of Styx and DD songs. He did tell the story of Tommy not wanting Babe followed by First Time to be released back to back. (More of the story is on the Behind the Music) He was one of the most gracious and respectful musicians we had in our studio and it made me even more of a fan of his. Love these Behind The Vinyl segments so keep up the great work!

[husamnesheiwat]

I was 12 in 1979 when this song came out in Yonkers New York I fell in love with Lisa puff in 5th grade. Great memories

[GeorgePavicic]

One of the most beautiful and valuable Rock-Ballads ever written. One of the most iconic voices out there. All my love and respect, Maestro!

[corymon]

The writer the feeling, the voice and the human = The most amazing songs 🎹🎤🎵🎶

[VintageMdrummer]

I love him way more than I thought it would. That’s the first I’ve seen him just being himself. Love it