Fallin’

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Fallin’" by Bloodrock from their iconic album Bloodrock 2, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its haunting, proto-metal energy. This track, while not as widely known as the band’s hit "D.O.A.," carries a raw, introspective intensity, with lyrics like “I keep fallin’ through that well / It’s so deep I can’t see the sky” painting a vivid picture of existential struggle. In a 2005 interview, guitarist Lee Pickens shared that the band’s songwriting often drew from personal experiences and the turbulent headlines of the era, which likely influenced the dark, poetic tone of "Fallin’." The song’s heavy riffs and driving rhythm showcase Bloodrock’s ability to blend hard rock with a southern grit, a sound that resonated deeply with their Texas fanbase. Though no specific stories about "Fallin’" have surfaced in interviews, its placement on Bloodrock 2—an album that hit number 21 on the Billboard Pop Album Chart in 1971—cemented its role in the band’s legacy.

Bloodrock’s journey began in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1963, when the group formed under the name the Naturals. The original lineup included Jim Rutledge on drums and vocals, Nick Taylor on guitar and vocals, Ed Grundy on bass and vocals, and Dean Parks on guitar. They cut their teeth in the local club scene, playing battle of the bands and opening for acts like The Beach Boys and Paul Revere & The Raiders. Their first single, "Hey Girl" b/w "I Want You," dropped in 1965 on Rebel Records. By 1966, they rebranded as Crowd + 1, signed with Capitol Records, and released singles like "Mary Ann Regrets," but none charted, and Capitol dropped them. In 1969, after Dean Parks left to become a session musician, the band, now with Lee Pickens on lead guitar and Stevie Hill on keyboards, adopted the name Bloodrock, a moniker suggested by Grand Funk Railroad manager Terry Knight. Knight signed them to Capitol and produced their debut album, Bloodrock, in 1970, marking their rise as a hard rock force.

While Bloodrock doesn’t maintain an official website today, fans can connect with their legacy through various online platforms. Their Facebook page offers a space for fans to share memories and discuss the band’s music. On Instagram, the hashtag #Bloodrock reveals fan posts and tributes, though the band doesn’t have an active official account. Similarly, on X, searching for Bloodrock yields fan discussions and occasional posts about their music. For deeper dives, fans can explore dedicated spaces like the Bloodrock Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks and other enthusiasts swap stories, rare photos, and concert memories. Sites like Discogs also serve as fan hubs, offering detailed discographies and vinyl collecting tips for Bloodrock’s catalog.