New England's dreaming: "Roadrunner" bill faces threat from Aerosmith fans

Published Feb 25 2013, 04:11 PM by Michael Marotta

Oh, Massachusetts, you just have to go mess with an awesome thing. Two state reps on the South Shore have opposed the crusade to name THE MODERN LOVERS' "Roadrunner" the official rock song of Massachusetts by filing their own pick: Aerosmith's "Dream On."

Wake up, people. It's time to drive faster to the State House.

South Coast Today posted this AP story a few hours ago:

Duxbury Democrat Rep. Josh Cutler and Marshfield Democrat Rep. James Cantwell today filed legislation that would bestow the official rock song status on a tune that’s got a larger popular following than “Roadrunner,” “Dream On” by Aerosmith.
The reps said that Rolling Stone magazine lists “Dream On” among its 500 greatest songs of all time. Cutler calls it a “classic ballad that’s all about holding on to your dreams and seizing opportunity.” Added Cantwell, “With all due respect, Aerosmith is the best-selling American rock band of all time. No band is more closely associated with Massachusetts.”
The Aerosmith classic is also getting a lift through its inclusion in the trailer for “Argo,” which won the best picture Oscar Sunday night.

In response, Joyce Linehan, who has led the campaign to the state legislature via Rep. Marty Walsh, tweeted the following this afternoon: "Anyone who thinks Dream On rather than #Roadrunner should have official designation from the state hasn't REALLY listened to either song." And: "Looks like we have a fight on our hands, kids."

February 19, 2013: Jonathan Richman doesn't want "Roadrunner" to become the official rock song of Massachusetts. But Nick Hornby does.