Deal With the Preacher

Zoo Freaks, your hippie DJs at THE ZOO are cranking up the vibes with "Deal With the Preacher" by Bad Company from their killer 1975 album Straight Shooter. This track’s raw energy hits like a lightning bolt, and there’s some cool trivia to share. According to posts found on X, this song was cut just months after their debut album, with the band—fresh off their massive success—diving back into the studio to capture that same gritty magic. Paul Rodgers, the voice behind those soulful wails, once told Louder that they were trying to recreate the vibe of their first record but ended up crafting something just as iconic. Fun fact: an early version of "Deal With the Preacher" exists on the deluxe edition of Straight Shooter, giving fans a peek into the band’s creative process with its rougher, unpolished edge.

Another tidbit comes from the album’s recording at Clearwell Castle in England, where the band and engineer Ron Nevison laid down tracks in a haunted, medieval vibe. The castle’s spooky atmosphere might’ve fueled the song’s intense, almost mystical groove. X posts from fans, like one from @2xsRadio, highlight how this track showcases the band’s roots, blending bluesy swagger with hard rock punch. It’s no wonder "Deal With the Preacher" became an FM radio staple, alongside other bangers like "Feel Like Makin’ Love" and "Shooting Star" from the same album. Zoo Freaks, this song’s got that untamed spirit we all love, so let it take you to the wild side!

Now, let’s talk about how Bad Company came to be. Formed in 1973, this English hard rock supergroup rose from the ashes of some legendary bands. Paul Rodgers (vocals/piano) and Simon Kirke (drums) came from Free, Mick Ralphs (guitar) split from Mott the Hoople, and Boz Burrell (bass) brought his King Crimson cred. Their name? Inspired by a 1972 Western flick, giving them that outlaw edge. They hit the ground running, signing with Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song label and dropping their self-titled debut in 1974, which went multi-platinum. Tracks like "Can’t Get Enough" and "Bad Company" cemented their rep as blues-rock heavyweights. By the time Straight Shooter dropped in ‘75, they were already global stars, with their mix of Rodgers’ soulful pipes and Ralphs’ searing riffs defining an era.

Want to keep up with Bad Company? Check out their official website for tour dates and merch. They’re active on Facebook, sharing throwbacks and updates, and their Instagram is packed with vintage photos and fan love. Follow them on X for the latest, like their recent post celebrating the 50th anniversary of "Good Lovin’ Gone Bad" from Straight Shooter. Fans can also join the Bad Company Fan Club on Facebook to connect with other diehards. For more, scope out fan sites like badcompany.com, which doubles as their official hub but is a goldmine for history and discography. Zoo Freaks, keep rocking with THE ZOO, and let’s give it up for Bad Company!