Rockin’ Horse

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious "Rockin’ Horse" by Bad English from their 1989 self-titled debut album, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving with its blues-infused, high-energy vibe. This song, one of the deeper cuts from the album, stands out for its gritty guitar riffs and John Waite’s raw vocal delivery, capturing the band’s knack for blending hard rock with melodic hooks. According to ClassicRockHistory.com, "Rockin’ Horse" is a fan favorite for its cranked-up, bluesy edge, showcasing the band’s ability to deliver straight-up rock alongside their more polished power ballads. While the song didn’t chart as a single like the album’s smash hit "When I See You Smile," it’s celebrated for its raw energy, with Neal Schon’s guitar work driving the track’s relentless momentum. In a 2015 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, bassist Ricky Phillips recalled the recording sessions as a time of creative freedom, where the band leaned into their rock roots for tracks like "Rockin’ Horse," even as label pressures pushed for more commercial ballads.

Delving into the song’s creation, "Rockin’ Horse" emerged from a collaborative songwriting effort, credited to the core trio of John Waite, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon. The track’s lyrical swagger and driving rhythm reflect the band’s live performance energy, which was a hallmark of their 1989-1990 tours, including their high-profile stint opening for Whitesnake. A lesser-known tidbit from a Discogs community discussion reveals that early demo versions of "Rockin’ Horse" featured a heavier bassline, which Phillips later toned down to give Schon’s guitars more room to shine. Fans on the Bad English Fan Group on Facebook often cite the song as a highlight of the band’s live shows, with one user sharing a memory of Waite improvising lyrics during a 1990 concert in Los Angeles, adding a spontaneous edge to the performance. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its unpolished, rebellious spirit, a contrast to the band’s more radio-friendly hits.

Bad English was born in 1987 as a supergroup, uniting members with deep roots in the rock scene. Frontman John Waite, already a seasoned performer from his time with The Babys and a successful solo career with hits like "Missing You," sought to return to a band dynamic. He reconnected with former Babys bandmates Jonathan Cain (keyboards) and Ricky Phillips (bass), both of whom brought a wealth of experience. Cain, fresh off his tenure with Journey, had co-written hits like "Don’t Stop Believin’," while Phillips had a solid reputation as a session musician. They were joined by Journey guitarist Neal Schon, whose virtuosic playing defined albums like Escape, and drummer Deen Castronovo, a rising talent who later became a Journey mainstay. According to a Sleaze Roxx bio, the band’s name came from a playful moment during a pool game when Cain teased Waite about his "bad English" on a shot, and the name stuck. Signed to Epic Records, their debut album in 1989 was a commercial triumph, driven by their chart-topping ballad "When I See You Smile."

The band’s formation was a strategic blend of talent and chemistry, but it wasn’t without challenges. Waite, in a GigWise interview, noted that the supergroup dynamic brought both incredible synergy and eventual friction, as members had strong creative visions. Their debut album’s success led to an extensive tour, including a major 1990 run with Whitesnake, which solidified their reputation as a dynamic live act. However, tensions over musical direction—particularly a push for harder rock versus pop-leaning tracks—led to their breakup after their second album, Backlash, in 1991. Post-dissolution, Waite returned to solo work, Schon and Castronovo rejoined Journey, and Phillips later joined Styx, as detailed in a Last.fm bio.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper into Bad English’s world, the band’s official presence is limited due to their disbandment, but fans keep the spirit alive. There’s no official band website, but John Waite’s official website offers updates on his solo career and occasional nods to his Bad English days. On social media, you can follow Waite at his Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts for insights into his ongoing work. Neal Schon is active on Facebook, Instagram, and X, often sharing Journey updates and reflections on his Bad English era. The Bad English Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant community where fans share memories, rare photos, and concert stories. Another fan hub, the Hair and Flannel website, offers detailed discographies and retrospectives. These platforms keep the legacy of "Rockin’ Horse" and Bad English rocking for new and old fans alike.