.38 Special, often stylized as .38 Special, is an American rock band formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1974 by founding members Donnie Van Zant and Don Barnes. The original lineup also included Jeff Carlisi (guitar), Ken Lyons (bass), Jack Grondin (drums), and Steve Brookins (drums). Known for their energetic sound, the band made significant contributions to the Southern rock genre, gaining recognition in the 1970s and 1980s.

In 1979, as the band prepared to release their album "Rockin' Into the Night," bassist Ken Lyons departed and was replaced by Larry Junstrom. While the album achieved moderate success, it marked a turning point for the band's musical direction. .38 Special began to blend their Southern rock roots with elements of arena rock, broadening their appeal. Their 1981 album "Wild-Eyed Southern Boys" was a commercial success, achieving platinum status and featuring the notable single Hold On Loosely, which hit the Top 40.

Throughout the early 1980s, .38 Special continued to produce hit songs, including Caught Up in You, If Id Been the One, and Back Where You Belong. In 1985, the band gained further acclaim with the single Teacher, Teacher, co-written by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, which reached number four on the Billboard charts. After the departure of Don Barnes and drummer Steve Brookins in 1987, Danny Chauncey joined as a replacement, coinciding with the release of 1989's "Rock & Roll Strategy," which featured the number one Adult Contemporary hit Second Chance.

The 1990s brought additional lineup changes, with Don Barnes rejoining the group in 1991, along with Scott Hoffman and Bobby Capps. The band released the album "Resolution" in 1997, followed by "Live at Sturgis" in 1999. .38 Special maintained relevance in the rock scene by touring with prominent bands, including Lynyrd Skynyrd and Hank Williams Jr. in 2007, and participating in a CMT Crossroads special with Trace Adkins in 2008.

In 2012, Donnie Van Zant announced he would not tour due to health issues related to inner-ear nerve damage, although he continued to write and record with the band before officially retiring in 2014. The lineup underwent further changes with the replacement of longtime bassist Larry Junstrom by Barry Dunaway in 2014.

As of recent years, .38 Special continues to perform and record with its current members Don Barnes, Bobby Capps, Gary Moffatt, Barry Dunaway, and Jerry Riggs. The band remains active on the touring circuit, completing extensive tours and maintaining a legacy in the rock genre while appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.