The Fan Who Sent A Letter Every Year On The Anniversary Of “Born To Be Wild”

April 1, 2025

Every year, on the anniversary of the iconic song “Born to Be Wild,” a devoted fan named Lucy would sit down at her kitchen table with a cup of steaming tea and an old-fashioned pen. She would pull out her favorite notebook, the one embossed with butterflies, and begins to write a letter to Steppenwolf, the band that changed her life. The song, released in 1968, had become the anthem of freedom and adventure, catching the spirit of a generation eager to break free. For Lucy, it was more than just music; it was a lifeline during tough times.

Lucy first heard “Born to Be Wild” when she was a teenager. It played in the background of a family road trip, and she felt the rush of the open road beckoning her. It was the perfect soundtrack as her family drove through winding mountain roads, sunlight pouring in through the windows. At that moment, she understood the song’s power—it wasn’t just about motorbikes and being wild; it was about embracing life and chasing dreams. Over the years, Lucy faced her own struggles—moments of doubt and fear about her future. But each time she listened to the song, it reignited that spark of hope inside her.

Every letter she wrote was different. Some years, she would share her personal stories, detailing how the song inspired her to pursue a career in art. Other letters contained snippets of poetry and illustrations that reflected her journey. Each time she would seal the envelope, she felt a connection to the band, as if she were sharing pieces of her soul with them. Lucy never expected a response, but just the act of writing helped her process her emotions and remind her of the resilience she had found through music.

As the years rolled on, Lucy began to notice changes in her own life. Her art began to flourish, and she started showcasing her work at local galleries. Each time she achieved a new milestone, she would include that news in her annual letter. The month of August became a celebration of not just the song but of her own growth and determination. She felt guided by the spirit of the music that had once given her the courage to dream big.

Then, one day, she received a surprise. It was an envelope with the familiar logo of Steppenwolf stamped in the corner. Heart racing, Lucy opened it to find a handwritten note from John Kay, the lead singer. He thanked her for her letters, expressing how deeply the band appreciated their fans and how they were inspired by her stories of growth and creativity. Her heart soared; she felt a connection that was electric, as though her dreams and experiences had been validated by the very people who had sparked them.

From that day forward, Lucy continued to write, but now her letters were more than just a ritual; they were a reminder that music has the power to forge connections and inspire resilience. With every anniversary, she celebrated not just the legacy of “Born to Be Wild,” but the vibrant journey of her own life, a testament to the belief that we can all find our path, no matter how wild it may be.