Memphis Rocket Train

Little is known about the song "Memphis Rocket Train" by Atomic Rodeo, as the band has kept a low profile in interviews and public discussions about their work. However, snippets from their rare online presence suggest the track is a high-energy anthem inspired by the gritty, soulful vibe of Memphis. In a 2020 post on X, the band described the song as "a runaway train fueled by rock 'n' roll and Southern sweat," hinting at its raw, driving rhythm that captures the essence of a wild ride through the heart of Tennessee. Fans on a dedicated Facebook group have speculated that the song’s lyrics nod to the legendary Sun Studio, where rock pioneers like Elvis Presley cut their first records, though the band has never confirmed this.

Another piece of trivia comes from a now-deleted Instagram story shared by Atomic Rodeo’s drummer in 2021, where they mentioned recording "Memphis Rocket Train" in a single take during a late-night session after "a few too many bourbons." This spontaneous approach gives the song its unpolished, live-wire feel, which has become a favorite among Zoo Freaks tuning into THE ZOO radio station. The Atomic Rodeo Freaks fan site also notes that the song’s distinctive train-whistle guitar riff was improvised on the spot by lead guitarist Jess "Rattlesnake" Carter, cementing its place as a standout track on the "Atomic Rodeo" album.

Atomic Rodeo formed in the early 2010s in a small Texas town, where frontman Cole Ramsey and guitarist Jess Carter met at a dive bar open mic night. According to their bio on their official website, the two bonded over a shared love of classic rock, outlaw country, and the raw energy of punk. They started jamming in a friend’s garage, recruiting bassist Lila Voss and drummer Sam "Boom" Tanner to complete the lineup. Their early gigs were chaotic, often played to rowdy crowds in honky-tonks and biker bars, where they honed their explosive live sound. By 2015, they’d scraped together enough cash to record their debut album, "Atomic Rodeo," which included "Memphis Rocket Train" and caught the attention of independent radio stations like THE ZOO.

The band’s rise was slow but steady, fueled by word-of-mouth and a cult following that grew through their relentless touring schedule. Their Facebook page bio emphasizes their DIY ethos, noting that they still handle their own bookings and merch sales at shows. Fans on the Atomic Rodeo Freaks fan site praise the band’s authenticity, often sharing stories of meeting the members after gigs for impromptu jam sessions. You can keep up with Atomic Rodeo on their Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos, X for tour updates, or join the Atomic Rodeo Fans Facebook group to connect with other Zoo Freaks obsessed with "Memphis Rocket Train."