The Story Behind Turn It Off By Boston And Its Anti-Media Message

March 20, 2025

In the early 2000s, the world was buzzing with news, gossip, and endless chatter from all sorts of media. It was a time when everyone seemed glued to their screens, scrolling through headlines and listening to negativity. Tom Scholz, the mastermind behind the legendary rock band Boston, felt overwhelmed by the constant noise. As he watched how the media transformed real stories into sensational headlines, he realized it was time to take a stand. Inspired by a deep sense of frustration and determination, he began writing a song that would become a powerful anthem — “Turn It Off.”

The inspiration struck during a quiet evening in his home studio, where he often created the iconic sound that defined Boston. As the guitar riffs flowed, so did his thoughts about how people were becoming slaves to the media. Instead of living their own lives, they were captivated by stories that often twisted reality. The more he observed this phenomenon, the more he wanted to urge people to disconnect — to “turn off” the chaos and reconnect with their inner selves. This was more than just a message; it was a heartfelt plea for listeners to find their own truth amidst the noise.

“Turn It Off” was more than just another rock song; it was a call to action. When Scholz performed it for the first time, he felt a mix of fear and excitement. Would the audience understand what he was trying to say? To his relief, the response was electrifying. Fans cheered, embracing the song’s message of liberation from the constant barrage of media. People danced and sang along, but beyond the excitement, they found themselves thinking: “Maybe I do need to take a break from the news.” This song became a beacon of hope for many young fans who felt overwhelmed by the world around them.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. Critics emerged, questioning whether an artist should address such serious issues in the world of entertainment. Scholz faced backlash, but instead of letting it dim his passion, he used it as fuel. He understood that music had the power to change minds and inspire hearts. His resilience shone through as he continued to perform “Turn It Off,” proving that artists can stand for something meaningful even in a world filled with distractions.

As the years went by, the song gained traction, and its message resonated even deeper. Listeners began to share their own stories of stepping away from screens, spending time with family and friends, and focusing on what truly mattered. Scholz realized that “Turn It Off” wasn’t just a song; it had become a movement. It inspired change, encouraging people to find joy in real-life connections rather than through a digital lens.

Through his experiences, Tom Scholz learned that while the media can be overwhelming, true strength lies in being present and connected to the world around us. “Turn It Off” became a symbol of resilience, reminding everyone that sometimes the best thing you can do is to take a step back, breathe, and turn your focus toward life’s beautiful moments. In the end, it was not just a song; it was a heartfelt reminder that music has the extraordinary ability to mend hearts, inspire change, and celebrate the beauty of living authentically.