Real Gone

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove to "Real Gone" by Ally Venable from her fifth solo album, Real Gone, released on March 24, 2023, via Ruf Records. This title track kicks off with gritty, overdriven guitar riffs and Ally’s snarling vocals, setting a fierce tone that’s perfect for THE ZOO’s vibe. Co-written with Grammy-winning producer Tom Hambridge and Richard Fleming, the song’s raw energy and wah-wah pedal-driven guitar work channel classic blues-rock with a modern edge. In a 2023 interview with Guitar Thrills Magazine, Ally shared that she draws inspiration from personal experiences, aiming to craft songs that resonate with listeners. She described "Real Gone" as a bold statement of independence, reflecting her growth as a songwriter who’s unafraid to speak her truth. The track’s driving rhythm, backed by Isaac Pulido on drums and EJ Bedford on bass, makes it a stadium-ready anthem that’s been praised for its crossover potential.

Another tidbit about "Real Gone" comes from fan discussions on My Les Paul Forum, where listeners lauded Ally’s evolving guitar chops and vocal delivery. Some fans noted the song’s retro vibe, likening its riff to something Girlschool might’ve penned in the ‘80s, while others appreciated its unapologetic attitude. On Instagram, Ally posted behind-the-scenes studio clips during the recording, revealing how Tom Hambridge pushed her to capture the song’s live energy in one take. The Ally Venable Band Facebook page also shared fan reactions, with one Zoo Freak-esque commenter calling it “a blues-rock banger that makes you wanna crank the volume and hit the road.” The song’s video, announced via Rock and Blues Muse, showcases Ally’s commanding stage presence, filmed with her trusty Gibson Les Paul, which she’s credited with making cool again by Guitar World in 2022.

Born in Kilgore, Texas, Ally Venable’s journey into music started early. She began singing in church at age four, her voice already hinting at the soulful grit she’d later unleash. At 12, she picked up the guitar, inspired by Texas blues legend Stevie Ray Vaughan. By 13, she’d formed her own band, diving headfirst into the local music scene. Her passion for blues grew through jamming with friends and studying the genre’s pioneers, as noted on her official website. Ally’s debut EP, Wise Man, dropped when she was just 14, earning her local buzz and the attention of blues fans. Her 2016 album, No Glass Shoes, charted on radio and won East Texas Music Awards, cementing her as a rising star. Touring with icons like Buddy Guy and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, plus her standout performances on Ruf Records’ European Blues Caravan, brought her global acclaim. Now 25, Ally’s a force in blues-rock, blending old-school soul with modern fire.

Stay connected with Ally and her music through her official website for tour dates and merch. Follow her on Facebook for live updates and fan interactions, where her 95,000+ followers share their love for her music. On Instagram, she posts vibrant performance shots and studio snippets, keeping fans in the loop. Check out her X account for quick updates and tour announcements, like her upcoming Money & Power Tour 2025. For community vibes, join the Ally Venable Band Facebook page, where fans swap stories and show support. While dedicated fan websites are scarce, forums like My Les Paul and Amazon reviews are buzzing with Zoo Freak-style enthusiasm for Ally’s electrifying sound.