In this episode of Derringer Discoveries – A Music Adventure Podcast, Team Derringer - Laura, Alton, Rob, and Paul - welcomes singer-songwriter, recording artist, and voice actor Dan Navarro, whose remarkable career includes co-writing one of the defining hits of the 1980s: “We Belong,” made famous by rocker Pat Benatar. Co-written with Dan's longtime musical partner Eric Lowen, the song reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination, cementing its place in rock history. For Team Derringer and our listeners, Dan pulls out his guitar and performs “We Belong” followed by another personal favorite "Bulletproof Heart" - just Dan singing and playing his guitar. Dan's performance of "We Belong" in this episode this isn't the familiar, polished hit you're accustomed to hearing on the radio or digital-streaming platforms. This version is raw and stripped-down, featuring the original lyrics Dan wrote before Pat Benatar and her longtime guitarist and musical collaborator, Neil Giraldo, made changes to the lyrics for their hit recording. It's a rare opportunity to hear the song through the eyes—and voice—of one of its creators, offering a fascinating glimpse into how a classic hit can evolve from its original conception into the version the world comes to know and love. At the end of the episode, Dan pulls out his guitar a third time to play an impromptu, on-the-spot creation commemorating his new title as an Honorary Derringer. The song? Dan dubs it "The Ballad of Danny Derringer." And, you can only hear it here! Dan and Eric first met while working as singing waiters in Los Angeles. Their musical connection grew into Lowen & Navarro, a duo known for its expressive songwriting, acoustic-driven sound, and beautiful two-part vocal harmonies. Over more than two decades, they released a string of albums, performed approximately 1,500 shows, and built a devoted following, including our very own Rob Derringer. Their songs were also recorded by artists including The Bangles, Dionne Warwick, The Temptations, and David Lee Roth. You can hear these songs on the Derringer Discoveries Spotify Playlist titled Dan Navarro. Lowen & Navarro's partnership was about much more than writing a hit for another artist. They developed a rich catalog of their own music, combining thoughtful lyrics, memorable melodies, and the kind of harmonies that made their performances special. Eric Lowen retired from touring after being diagnosed with ALS and passed away in 2012. Dan has continued his musical journey as a solo performer, songwriter, and collaborator, carrying that creative spirit forward. And there’s a family connection that rock fans may find especially interesting: Dan Navarro is the first cousin of guitarist Dave Navarro, known for his work with Jane’s Addiction and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Join Team Derringer as we talk with Dan Navarro about his extraordinary songwriting journey, the story behind “We Belong,” his years with Eric Lowen, his recent testimony on Capitol Hill about the rise of AI, and the music and experiences that have shaped his life and career. WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/103 Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter. Thanks for listening to Derringer Discoveries!
