The Session Tape Where John Kay Stops Mid-Take And Says, “That’S Not Loud Enough To Be True”

April 2, 2025

The humid air in the recording studio was thick with anticipation as John Kay leaned into the microphone, ready to record the next powerful track for his band, Steppenwolf. They had been working tirelessly on their new album, fueled by the desire to capture the raw energy that had made them famous. The room was filled with the buzz of instruments and the low hum of equipment, but there was an underlying tension that John could feel in his bones. As he took a deep breath and prepared to sing, his heart raced with the hope of creating something extraordinary.

But just as he began to pour his soul into the song, the sound engineer, a young man with glasses and an anxious expression, flipped a switch and cranked the volume dial. John’s voice rang out, but something didn’t feel right. In the middle of the take, the words faltered, and he abruptly paused. “That’s not loud enough to be true,” he said, his voice steady but laced with intensity. The room fell silent as everyone processed the weight of his statement. For John, music was not just a pastime; it was a lifeline, a way to express his innermost feelings and connect with others. If it didn’t resonate deeply, then what was the point?

With a newfound determination, John rallied the band. They spent the next hour revamping the track, pouring their hearts into the instruments and voices, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflected the essence of their lives and experiences. It wasn’t just about being heard; it was about being felt. They wanted their music to echo in the hearts of their listeners, to inspire courage and resilience, much like they had experienced in their own journey. Every chord struck a personal note, every lyric a reflection of their struggles and triumphs.

Finally, they hit record again, and this time the energy in the room was palpable. As John sang, his voice soared with passion, filling every corner of the studio. It was loud enough to be true, to shake the walls and reach the souls of anyone who would listen. When the final notes faded, there was a moment of silence, then the loud sound of applause broke the stillness. The magic of that moment transformed the track into something legendary, a song that would go on to inspire countless fans and become a defining part of their musical legacy.

Reflecting on that day later, John realized that moments like these were the true test of an artist’s spirit. It wasn’t always easy; there were times he felt discouraged, wondering if his voice mattered at all in a world so vast. But that experience taught him that authenticity and passion were the keys to creating music that resonated. Steppenwolf didn’t just produce songs; they ignited movements, evoking emotions from the depths of despair to the heights of joy.

Years later, as John Kay looked back on his career and the many ups and downs he had faced, he felt proud. The tape from that session was more than just a recording. It symbolized the relentless pursuit of truth in music and the courage to stand up for what felt honest and real. It reminded him that no matter how difficult the journey, the power of creativity could change lives, including his own. As he stepped onto the stage for another performance, he smiled, knowing that every note he sang had the potential to touch hearts and inspire others to find their true voice.