By Adrian Gomez
Albuquerque Journal

Boston's success goes back to the 1970s and '80s.

It is known for its hit singles "More Than a Feeling," "Peace of Mind," "Smokin'," "Don't Look Back" and "Amanda."

The band has sold more than 31 million albums in the United States alone and has amassed fans worldwide.

So it would be crazy to think that joining the band would be intimidating, right? Tommy DeCarlo got a chance to join the band in 2007, after original lead singer Brad Delp committed suicide.

"Back in 2007, when I sang with Boston at the benefit concert in memory of Brad Delp, never in my wildest dreams did I think it would have turned into what it has," he says. "Seven years, three tours and one album later ... who would ever believe it!"

Boston's latest album, "Life, Love & Hope," was released in 2013 and marked the first album that DeCarlo got to work on.

"Having the opportunity to record on (the) record was simply amazing," he says. "Just knowing how many hits came out of Tom's (Scholz) studio made me feel privileged to be there."

DeCarlo grew up as a fan of Boston and would often put up videos online of himself singing the band's songs.

It was then he was advised to reach out to the band about singing for them.

"You have to remember I've been a fan of Boston for much longer than I've been a member of Boston," he says. "I think it's just a natural reaction."

Though the band isn't currently working on new material because of its heavy tour schedule, DeCarlo says he's looking forward to many more years with the band.

In fact, he recalls one of his first shows back in 2008 in Los Angeles.

"It was my first tour and everything was new to me," he says. "Backstage was Adam Sandler, David Spade, Kevin James, Fred Durst and Clint Black! Now what was that question you asked me earlier about being nervous?"