Searchin’

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some righteous vibes as The Zoo Crew spins "Searchin’" by Blackfoot from their 1981 album Marauder. This track is a soulful, mid-paced gem that showcases the band’s ability to blend gritty Southern rock with heartfelt emotion. According to a 2012 review on King Crimson Prog, "Searchin’" stands out as one of the slower, quieter tracks on the album, highlighting Blackfoot’s versatility beyond their hard-hitting anthems like "Fly Away." Fans on Blackfoot Fans Facebook Group have shared stories of how this song’s introspective lyrics resonated with them during road trips across the South, with one fan recalling a 1981 concert where Rickey Medlocke dedicated it to “everyone chasing a dream.” While specific interviews about "Searchin’" are scarce, the song’s raw energy and relatable themes have made it a fan favorite, often praised on Blackfoot’s X account for its timeless appeal.

Blackfoot’s journey began in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1969, when a group of young musicians came together under the name Fresh Garbage, inspired by a song from the psychedelic rock band Spirit. The core lineup—Rickey Medlocke (vocals/guitar), Greg T. Walker (bass), Charlie Hargrett (guitar), and Jakson Spires (drums)—forged a sound that mixed Southern rock with hard rock edge. According to their bio on their official website, the band renamed themselves Blackfoot to honor the Native American heritage of members like Medlocke (Lakota Sioux and Blackfoot ancestry) and Spires (Cheyenne and Cherokee roots). After years of grinding it out in local clubs like The Comic Book Club and hopping between labels like Island and Epic, they hit their stride with Atco Records. Their 1979 album Strikes, featuring hits like "Train, Train" and "Highway Song," catapulted them to fame, setting the stage for Marauder’s release.

The band’s early days weren’t all smooth sailing. As detailed on Wikipedia, they faced setbacks, including a brief breakup in 1971 when Medlocke and Walker joined Lynyrd Skynyrd. But by 1972, they reformed with a renewed fire, relocating to North Carolina and building a loyal following through relentless touring. Their Native American pride and raw, unpolished sound—described by RockHard as “earthier” than Lynyrd Skynyrd—set them apart in the Southern rock scene. Fans can dive deeper into their legacy on sites like Discogs, which catalogs their vinyl and CD releases, or join discussions on Blackfoot’s official Facebook page.

Today, Blackfoot’s music lives on through their active online presence. Check out their latest updates on officialblackfoot.com, where they share tour dates and merch. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for throwback photos and fan shoutouts, or join the conversation on X. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with other diehards, the Blackfoot Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant community sharing memories, rare photos, and love for tracks like "Searchin’." So crank up the volume, let The Zoo Crew guide you, and keep rockin’ with Blackfoot’s timeless sound.