The Way It Is

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some groovy trivia about Bruce Hornsby & The Range's iconic track "The Way It Is," spinning now on THE ZOO! This 1986 hit, which soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, is more than just a catchy piano-driven tune. Written by Bruce Hornsby, the song dives deep into social issues, referencing the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Its lyrics, inspired by Hornsby's upbringing in Williamsburg, Virginia, tackle themes of poverty, racial segregation, and complacency, with the powerful line "Ah, but don’t you believe them" urging listeners to challenge the status quo. Hornsby's brother John once noted in an interview that the song is about compassion and understanding different social and racial perspectives, making it a subtle yet profound call to action. Its jazz-inflected sound and lack of a traditional big chorus made it an unusual chart-topper, appealing to both adult contemporary listeners and younger audiences.

The song’s impact didn’t stop in the '80s. "The Way It Is" became a sampling goldmine for hip-hop artists, most notably Tupac Shakur, who used it in his 1999 posthumous hit "Changes," earning a Grammy nomination. Other rappers like E-40, Snoop Dogg, and Polo G have also sampled it, cementing its influence across genres. In a 2021 interview with American Songwriter, Hornsby called it a "novelty hit" in the best sense, attributing its success to its fresh sound and relatable social commentary. Fun fact: the song was even used as the theme for the UK’s City Hospital documentary series from 1998 to 2007, giving it a second life across the pond. Fans on Reddit have shared how the song’s mellow vibe grows on you over time, with one user noting how they dismissed it as "boring" as a teen but loved its depth in their fifties.

Now, let’s rewind to how Bruce Hornsby got his start. Born on November 23, 1954, in Williamsburg, Virginia, to a musically inclined family—his mother played piano, and his father was a former musician—Hornsby was steeped in music from a young age. He studied music at the University of Miami and honed his craft in Los Angeles, where he worked as a songwriter and pianist for 20th Century Fox in the late 1970s. By 1984, he formed Bruce Hornsby and the Range with David Mansfield (guitar, mandolin, violin), George Marinelli (guitars, vocals), Joe Puerta (bass, vocals), and John Molo (drums). Their demo, including "The Way It Is," caught the ear of RCA Records, leading to a deal in 1985. The debut album, also called The Way It Is, went triple platinum, and the band won the 1987 Grammy for Best New Artist. Hornsby’s eclectic style, blending folk rock, jazz, and bluegrass, set him apart, and his later collaborations with the Grateful Dead and artists like Spike Lee showcased his versatility.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with Bruce Hornsby on his official website, where you’ll find tour dates and news about his latest projects, like his 2022 album Flicted. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Fans gather on platforms like the Bruce Hornsby Fan Group on Facebook, where they share memories and discuss his diverse discography. For more fan-driven content, check out r/BruceHornsby on Reddit, a small but passionate community. So, crank up "The Way It Is" and let its timeless message vibe with you, Zoo Crew style!