The Old Playground

"The Old Playground" from Scenes From The Southside by Bruce Hornsby & The Range is a track that resonates with the Zoo Freaks for its nostalgic nod to basketball, a lifelong passion of Hornsby’s. In a 2019 interview with Rolling Stone, Hornsby shared that the song reflects his love for the sport, capturing the gritty, communal vibe of pickup games on weathered courts. He described it as a tribute to the "soul of the game," inspired by his own experiences playing in Virginia. The song’s upbeat tempo and jazzy piano riffs, paired with lyrics about camaraderie and competition, make it a perfect spin for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited vibe.

While specific anecdotes about "The Old Playground" are scarce, Hornsby has often discussed the album’s creation in interviews. In a 2020 podcast with NPR’s On Point, he noted that Scenes From The Southside, released in 1988, was a pivotal moment for the band, blending rock, jazz, and Southern influences. The track’s production, featuring Hornsby’s signature piano and John Molo’s looped drumbeats, showcases the band’s innovative approach. A 2021 post on Hornsby’s X account highlighted a live performance of a lesser-played track from the album, hinting at rediscovery of its gems, which could include "The Old Playground" for its unique storytelling.

Bruce Hornsby’s journey to stardom began in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he was born on November 23, 1954. Growing up in a musical family, with his mother Lois playing piano and his father Robert a former musician, Hornsby was drawn to music early. He studied music at the University of Miami and honed his craft in Los Angeles as a session musician. According to his bio on brucehornsby.com, he formed Bruce Hornsby & The Range in 1984, blending folk, rock, and jazz. Their debut album, The Way It Is, skyrocketed with the title track’s success, earning a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1987. His collaborative spirit led to work with the Grateful Dead, touring with them from 1990 to 1992, shaping his improvisational style.

Fans can connect with Hornsby through his official channels: brucehornsby.com, Facebook, Instagram, and X. The fan community thrives online, with groups like the Bruce Hornsby Fan Club on Facebook sharing updates and memories. Websites such as AllMusic offer detailed discographies, while Rate Your Music hosts fan reviews and rankings, fostering a vibrant space for Zoo Freaks to celebrate Hornsby’s legacy.