I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight" by Atlanta Rhythm Section from their iconic album Champagne Jam. This 1978 hit, which climbed to #14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and #15 in Canada, captures a vibe of shaking off the world’s chaos for one carefree night. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “I picked up the paper this morning / And read all the daily blues,” reflect a gritty resolve to find solace amidst life’s struggles, ending with a cheeky request for a “double” from the bartender. According to Top40weekly, the track was penned by the songwriting trio of Buddy Buie, Dean Daughtry, and Robert Nix, riding the wave of the band’s success after their smash hit “So Into You.” It’s a perfect anthem for letting go, just like we do here at THE ZOO.

Digging into the trivia, Champagne Jam was a pinnacle for Atlanta Rhythm Section, selling over a million copies and earning platinum status. Fans on platforms like Amazon have shared nostalgic stories, with one recalling how they “played it to death” on vinyl back in the day, comparing the band’s smooth Southern rock to the Eagles and 10CC. A reviewer on Classic Rock Bottom even tied the song to personal memories, saying it reminds them of a college love every time it plays. The track’s laid-back defiance resonated widely, and its live performances, like those at the 1978 Knebworth Festival alongside Genesis and Tom Petty, cemented its place in rock history. Zoo Freaks, this one’s for those nights when you just need to let the troubles slide.

Now, let’s rewind to how Atlanta Rhythm Section got their start. Formed in 1970 in Doraville, Georgia, the band emerged from the ashes of two groups, the Candymen and Classics IV. Members Rodney Justo (vocals), Barry Bailey (guitar), Paul Goddard (bass), Dean Daughtry (keyboards), Robert Nix (drums), and James B. Cobb Jr. (guitar) were initially session musicians at the newly opened Studio One, backing artists before deciding to form their own band. Their name came from Studio One’s owner, Buddy Buie, and his partners, Cobb and Bill Lowery. Signed to Decca Records, they dropped their debut album, Atlanta Rhythm Section, in 1972, but it wasn’t until their 1976 hit “So Into You” that they broke through. Their blend of Southern rock with pop-infused grooves set them apart, as noted by Manship Theatre.

For more on Atlanta Rhythm Section, check out their official website at atlantarhythmsection.com. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates on tours and new releases. While they don’t have an official X account, fans keep the vibe alive on platforms like the Atlanta Rhythm Section Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can connect and share their love for the band. There’s also a dedicated fan site at atlantarhythmsection.net for deep dives into their discography and history. So, crank up the volume, Zoo Freaks, and let’s keep the party going with ARS!