Divine Wind

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Divine Wind" by Blue Öyster Cult from their 1980 album Cultösaurus Erectus, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this heavy, haunting track. Written by Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, the song was inspired by the Iran hostage crisis and the Ayatollah Khomeini's rhetoric, particularly his labeling of America as "The Great Satan." The chorus, "If he really thinks we're the devil, then let's send him to hell," captures the defiant mood of the time, tapping into American frustration during the crisis. Originally titled "Ayatollah," the song's name was changed to "Divine Wind," a translation of the Japanese word "kamikaze," which historically referred to typhoons that saved Japan from Mongol invasions but also evoked the WWII suicide pilots, adding a layer of irony given the song's Middle Eastern context. In live performances, frontman Eric Bloom would encourage audiences to give the "Ayatollah handshake" by raising their middle fingers, a gesture that reflected the song's rebellious spirit but might be seen as controversial today.

Fans and reviewers have praised "Divine Wind" for its doomy, slow tempo and Buck Dharma's searing guitar solo in the outro, which one Discogs commenter called "sick" for its intensity. The song's socially conscious edge stands out in Blue Öyster Cult's catalog, which often leans toward fantasy and sci-fi themes. In a Genius-referenced interview with Music Radar, Eric Bloom highlighted the song's significance, noting it was written during a pivotal moment in history. On Rolling Stone Forum, fans have rated "Divine Wind" highly, with some calling it one of the album's "knallers" (bangers) alongside "Deadline." The track's creepy, uneasy vibe, as noted in a Classic Rock Forum review, was intentional, designed to evoke the tension of the era. Its striptease-like beat has even drawn comparisons to Alannah Myles' "Black Velvet" by an Amazon reviewer, showcasing its unique rhythm.

Blue Öyster Cult began in 1967 at Stony Brook University on Long Island, New York, initially as Soft White Underbelly, a name inspired by a Winston Churchill quote. The band, led by vocalist/guitarist Eric Bloom and guitarist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, evolved through various names and lineups, including The Stalk-Forrest Group, before settling on Blue Öyster Cult in 1971, a moniker coined by manager Sandy Pearlman from his poetry. Pearlman's vision, blending literary and occult imagery, shaped their early sound and mystique. Drummer Albert Bouchard, bassist Joe Bouchard, and keyboardist Allen Lanier rounded out the classic lineup. Their self-titled debut in 1972 established their intelligent hard rock style, with hits like "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" from 1976's Agents of Fortune cementing their legacy. Influenced by the likes of The Doors and Black Sabbath, they carved a niche in the heavy metal and hard rock scenes, selling over 24 million albums worldwide.

The band's early days were marked by relentless gigging around Long Island and New York City, building a cult following through their enigmatic live shows and cryptic lyrics. Sandy Pearlman's management and production were crucial, as was the input of rock critic Richard Meltzer, who contributed to their songwriting. Their collaboration with producer Martin Birch on Cultösaurus Erectus marked a return to their heavier roots after the more commercial Mirrors. Today, Blue Öyster Cult remains active, with a current lineup featuring Bloom, Roeser, Richie Castellano, Danny Miranda, and Jules Radino. Their official website, blueoystercult.com, keeps fans updated on tour dates and releases, like the recent 50th Anniversary Live – Third Night album. You can follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest news.

Fans, or Zoo Freaks, looking to connect with the BÖC community can explore dedicated spaces. The Blue Öyster Cult Wiki offers detailed album and song info, while the Blue Öyster Cult Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant hub for discussions and memorabilia sharing. Another fan site, Blue Öyster Cult Fandom, dives deep into the band's history and discography. These platforms keep the spirit of the Cult alive, much like the Zoo Crew's spins of "Divine Wind" for their devoted listeners.