Learn How To Live

The Zoo Crew is spinning the vibrant track "Learn How To Live" by Billy Squier from his 1982 album Emotions in Motion, and the Zoo Freaks are surely feeling the energy. This song, a standout on the album, is known for its dramatic hard rock verses and folksy opening riff, accented by the saxophone of Dino Solera, which gives it a unique texture. According to a review on Classic Rock Review, the song transitions from its folksy intro into a powerful verse, showcasing Squier's ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly. Fans on Reddit's ClassicRock community have praised a stripped-down live version performed during the 1984 Signs of Life tour, with some claiming it surpasses the studio recording for its raw intensity. This live rendition, noted for its acoustic twist, has been highlighted in fan discussions as a hidden gem, with one user on Pencil Storm calling it a refreshing take that avoids the overexposure the original FM radio hit suffered.

Another piece of trivia comes from the album's production, as shared on Billy Squier's Fandom page. "Learn How To Live" was one of the tracks that benefited from the collaboration with producer Reinhold Mack, who previously worked with Queen on The Game. Mack's influence brought a high-end sonic quality to the song, though some critics, like those on Rate Your Music, noted the percussion could feel overproduced. Interestingly, a Japanese reviewer on Amazon described the song as a dramatic and "cool" highlight of Squier's catalog, with its live version from the B-side of the Love is the Hero EP being particularly electrifying, evoking "goosebumps" for its passionate delivery. This track's enduring appeal is evident in fan communities like the Billy Squier Fan Club on Facebook, where members frequently share memories of hearing it live or on classic rock radio.

Billy Squier's journey to rock stardom began in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where he was born on May 12, 1950. As detailed on his official website, Squier's musical roots trace back to his childhood. At age eight, he started classical piano lessons, but his interest waned until his grandfather bribed him to continue. By 1963, at age 13, he bought his first guitar, a Danelectro, for $90 from a neighbor, marking a pivotal moment. His passion deepened in 1966 when he discovered John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, inspiring him to take music seriously. Squier formed his first band, the Reltneys, at 14, and by his late teens, he was immersed in the local rock scene. His early career included stints with bands like Piper, which Sleaze Roxx notes was once hailed by Circus Magazine as producing "the greatest debut album ever by a US rock band."

After Piper disbanded, Squier signed a solo deal with Capitol Records in 1979, releasing his debut album The Tale of the Tape in 1980. Though it only peaked at #169 on the Billboard charts, it gained traction with radio play for singles like "The Big Beat," which later became one of the most-sampled drum breaks in hip-hop, used by artists like Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, as mentioned on Wikipedia. His breakthrough came with 1981's Don't Say No, a triple-platinum album that solidified his arena rock status with hits like "The Stroke" and "Lonely Is the Night." Squier's perfectionist nature and dynamic live performances, often shared by fans on his Instagram, helped him transition from opening acts for bands like Queen to headlining arenas by the time Emotions in Motion was released.

Fans can stay connected with Billy Squier through his active social media presence. His Facebook page regularly shares updates on performances and re-releases, while his X account engages with followers, though he has expressed in a 2013 Pencil Storm interview a preference for limited social media use to focus on music. The Billy Squier Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where Zoo Freaks can join discussions, share concert photos, and celebrate Squier's legacy. Additionally, the fan-run Billy Squier Wiki offers detailed insights into his discography and career milestones, making it a great resource for die-hard fans. Whether you're grooving to "Learn How To Live" or exploring Squier's extensive catalog, these platforms keep the rock spirit alive.