She’s A Runner (Live 1996)

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! The Zoo Crew is spinning the killer track "She’s A Runner (Live 1996)" by Billy Squier, and we’ve got some juicy trivia to share. This song, originally from Squier’s 1982 album Emotions in Motion, is a fan favorite for its raw energy and heartfelt lyrics about chasing someone who’s always just out of reach. In a 2008 interview with billysquier.com, Squier mentioned that performing “She’s A Runner” live always felt like a cathartic release, especially with the crowd singing along, as captured in the 1996 live version. Fun fact: @EddieTrunk shared on X in 2018 that Jon Bon Jovi once called into his radio show in the late ’80s to request this very song, calling it one of his faves. Fans on the Classic Rock Forum also rave about how the live version’s extended guitar jams showcase Squier’s wicked skills, making it a staple in his setlists.

Another cool tidbit comes from a 2011 blog post on angelialevy.com, where the author highlights a 1983 live version of “She’s A Runner” performed in Detroit, noting its emotional depth and Squier’s commanding stage presence. The 1996 live recording, part of the King Biscuit Flower Hour release, captures a similar vibe, with Squier’s band—featuring longtime collaborators like drummer Bobby Chouinard and keyboardist Alan St. Jon—delivering a tight, electrifying performance. On Pencil Storm, a fan writer ranks “She’s A Runner” as one of Squier’s most-listened-to tracks, even inspiring the band Watershed to cover it live. The song’s universal theme of longing and its driving rhythm keep it resonating with fans, whether they’re old-school Zoo Freaks or new listeners tuning in to THE ZOO.

Now, let’s dive into how Billy Squier got his start. Born William Haislip Squier on May 12, 1950, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, he was drawn to music early on. According to his bio on billysquier.com, Squier began piano lessons at age eight, thanks to his grandfather’s encouragement (and a bit of bribery). By 11, he lost interest in piano and picked up a guitar, buying his first Danelectro for $90 from a neighbor. He taught himself to play, inspired by John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers and Eric Clapton, whom he saw perform in 1968 at Boston’s Psychedelic Supermarket. That gig lit a fire in young Squier, and by 14, he was fronting his first band, The Reltneys. After graduating from Wellesley High School in 1968, he briefly attended Berklee College of Music but dropped out, feeling their rigid approach didn’t match his rock ‘n’ roll spirit.

Squier’s early career saw him grinding it out in Boston’s music scene. In 1969, he played with Magic Terry & The Universe, and by the early ’70s, he formed The Sidewinders, as noted on Wikipedia. In 1976, he founded Piper, a band that released two albums and opened for KISS on their 1977 tour, earning high praise from Circus magazine as the greatest American rock debut. Piper fizzled out, but Squier went solo, releasing Tale of the Tape in 1980. His big break came with 1981’s Don’t Say No, which went triple platinum thanks to hits like “The Stroke.” From there, Squier became an arena rock king, blending power pop and hard rock with a knack for catchy hooks.

Want to keep up with Billy Squier? Check out his official website for lyrics, liner notes, and tour updates. He’s active on Facebook, where he has over 2,000 followers, sharing throwback photos and gig announcements. While he doesn’t seem to post on Instagram or X directly, fans keep his spirit alive on platforms like the Billy Squier Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks trade stories and rare vinyl finds. The Official Billy Squier Fan Site mentioned on Pencil Storm is another spot for diehards, packed with discography details and vintage merch. So, crank up “She’s A Runner,” and let’s keep rockin’ with Billy!