The opening track of the three-song suite chronicling the life cycle of a rock band which set the “tour of AM radio” theme of the album, this track was a particular favorite of John Lennon who, while uncredited, is reported to have assisted in the mixing of the album.
While writer Eric Carmen had p...
[Verse 1]
Well I know it sounds funny
But I'm not in it for the money, no
I don't need no reputation
And I'm not in it for the show
[Chorus]
I just want a hit record, yeah
Wanna hear it on the radio
Want a big hit record, yeah
One that everybody's got to know
[Verse 2]
Well if the program director don't pull it
Then it's time to get back the bullet
So, bring the group down to the station
You're gonna be an overnight sensation
[Guitar Solo]
[Verse 3]
I've been tryin' to write the lyric
Non-offensive but satiric too
And if you put it in the a-slot
It's just got to make a mint for you
[Chorus]
And I want a hit record, yeah
Wanna hear it on the radio
Want a big hit record, yeah
One that everybody's got to know, whoa
[Saxophone Solo]
Overnight sensation
[Bridge]
I fit those words to a good melody
Amazing how success has been ignoring me
So, long I use my bread making demos all day
Writing in the night while in my head I hear
The record play, hear it play
[Outro]
Hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
(Number one)
Wanna hit record, yeah
Wanna hit record, yeah
(Number one)
Overnight Sensation was written by Eric Carmen.
Overnight Sensation was produced by Jimmy Ienner.
Raspberries released Overnight Sensation on Mon Sep 16 1974.