She’s a Runner

The Zoo Crew is spinning "She’s a Runner" by Billy Squier from his 1982 album Emotions In Motion, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this classic rock vibe. This track, a standout from the album, captures Squier’s signature blend of hard rock energy and pop sensibility. In a 2018 post on X, radio host @EddieTrunk called "She’s a Runner" one of his favorite Squier songs, noting that @jonbonjovi once requested it during a late '80s radio show on WDHAFM. The song’s driving rhythm and introspective lyrics about a fleeting, untamed spirit resonated with fans, making it a hidden gem alongside bigger hits like "Everybody Wants You." On the fan site Pencil Storm, contributor Colin Gawel shared that "She’s a Runner" inspired his band Watershed’s song "How Do You Feel?" and was even covered live by them once, highlighting its enduring influence among musicians.

Another tidbit about "She’s a Runner" comes from its place in Squier’s creative process. In an interview excerpted on Billy Squier’s official website, he described Emotions In Motion as a "spontaneous album," written quickly in January 1982 after touring for his breakthrough album Don’t Say No. Squier explained that he didn’t second-guess his songwriting, pulling from riffs and lyrics cataloged over time to craft tracks like "She’s a Runner." Its raw, emotional edge and Led Zeppelin-esque guitar work, praised by fans on Discogs, reflect Squier’s confidence in sticking to what worked. The song’s evocative lyrics, like “She’s a runner… you can’t make her stay,” paint a vivid picture, earning it a spot as a fan favorite, with some on Louder comparing it to The Rolling Stones’ "Beast of Burden" for its emotional punch.

Billy Squier, born William Haislip Squier on May 12, 1950, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, began his musical journey early. According to his bio on his official website, he started piano lessons at age eight but grew bored until his grandfather bribed him to continue. By his teens, his passion shifted to guitar after buying a Danelectro and Supro amp for $90 from a neighbor in 1963. Discovering John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton in 1966 sparked his serious pursuit of music. Squier formed his first band, the Reltneys, at 14, but his career took shape in the 1970s with the band Piper, which released two albums for A&M Records. Despite critical praise, including Circus magazine calling Piper’s debut one of the greatest American rock debuts, commercial success eluded him until his solo career kicked off with 1980’s Tale of the Tape.

Squier’s breakthrough came with 1981’s Don’t Say No, a triple-platinum album featuring "The Stroke," which bridged power pop and hard rock, cementing his arena rock status. His bio on Last.fm notes that his early ‘80s success, driven by heavy MTV rotation, made him a defining figure of the era, though his career faced challenges after the controversial 1984 "Rock Me Tonite" video. Despite this, Squier’s music, including "She’s a Runner," remains influential, with "The Big Beat" sampled by artists like Jay-Z and "The Stroke" in Eminem’s "Berzerk." Now 71, Squier continues to perform and engage fans through social media, as noted on BGO Records.

Fans can connect with Billy Squier through his official website, where lyrics, liner notes, and tour photos are shared. His social media presence includes Facebook, Instagram, and X, where he posts updates and interacts with followers. For Zoo Freaks wanting more, the fan site Pencil Storm offers deep dives into Squier’s discography, while Classic Rock Forums hosts discussions among dedicated fans. There’s also a Billy Squier Fan Group on Facebook, where fans share memories, concert stories, and love for tracks like "She’s a Runner," keeping the rock spirit alive.