The Way It Is

The song "The Way It Is" by Bruce Hornsby & The Range is a timeless piece that resonates with the Zoo Freaks for its soulful piano and socially conscious lyrics. One fascinating piece of trivia comes from Hornsby himself, who described the song as a "novelty hit" in an interview with American Songwriter. He noted its unique appeal stemmed from its fresh sound and serious lyrical content about the Civil Rights era, which was unusual for a chart-topping pop song in 1986. The song’s lyrics reference the Economic Opportunity Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, addressing issues like poverty and racial segregation. Hornsby’s brother, John, emphasized the song’s core message of compassion, highlighting the line “Ah, but don’t you believe them” as a call to challenge bigotry and complacency, as shared in a Wikipedia entry.

Another intriguing story about "The Way It Is" is its widespread influence beyond rock and pop. The song has been sampled by numerous rappers, including Tupac Shakur for his 1998 hit “Changes,” E-40 for “Things’ll Never Change,” and Polo G for “Wishing for a Hero” in 2020, as noted on Stereogum. This cross-genre impact showcases its universal appeal, blending Hornsby’s jazzy piano solos with hip-hop beats. Additionally, the song was adapted as the theme for the UK’s BBC One series City Hospital from 1998 to 2007, cementing its cultural footprint, according to Songfacts. Posts on X from accounts like @OldSchool80s and @landofthe80s celebrate its chart success, noting it hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on December 13, 1986, reflecting its enduring popularity among fans.

Bruce Hornsby, born on November 23, 1954, in Williamsburg, Virginia, began his musical journey rooted in a diverse range of influences, from folk rock to jazz and bluegrass. Growing up in a musical family, with his mother Lois playing piano and his father Robert a former musician, Hornsby developed a love for the piano early on. He studied music at the University of Miami and later honed his craft in Los Angeles, playing in various bands, including a stint with Sheena Easton’s band in the early 1980s, as mentioned on Wikipedia. His big break came when he formed Bruce Hornsby & The Range in 1984 with David Mansfield, George Marinelli, Joe Puerta, and John Molo. A demo featuring “The Way It Is,” “Mandolin Rain,” and “The Red Plains” caught the attention of RCA Records, leading to a deal in 1985, as detailed in Wikipedia.

Hornsby’s career took off with the release of The Way It Is album in 1986, which went multi-platinum and earned the band a Grammy for Best New Artist. His eclectic style, blending heartland rock with jazz and socially aware lyrics, set him apart in the crowded 1980s music scene. Beyond The Range, Hornsby toured with the Grateful Dead from 1990 to 1992, playing over 100 shows, and collaborated with artists like Bonnie Raitt, Don Henley, and Ricky Skaggs, as noted on Songfacts. His versatility and commitment to musical exploration continue to inspire the Zoo Freaks spinning his records at THE ZOO.

Fans of Bruce Hornsby can connect with his music and updates through his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. For those looking to dive deeper into the community, fan-driven spaces like the Bruce Hornsby Fans Facebook group offer a place to share stories and celebrate his work. These platforms keep the spirit of Hornsby’s music alive, perfect for Zoo Freaks grooving to “The Way It Is.”