Diana

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Diana" by Bryan Adams, a track released as a single and notably the B-side to "Heaven" in some regions. This song, co-written with Jim Vallance in March 1984 in Vancouver, was meant as a playful, comedic nod to the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer. Its lighthearted lyrics depict a narrator smitten with Diana, professing love and urging her to leave her unnamed husband, suggesting a life free from the royal social scene. Originally intended for the Reckless album, Adams chose not to include it, fearing it might offend the royal couple. However, it found its way onto the 1988 Japanese compilation Hits on Fire and as a single in Portugal. Interestingly, when the Reckless 30th Anniversary reissue was planned in 2014, fans noticed "Diana" was omitted. A fan’s direct question on Twitter prompted Adams to respond simply, “in respect…,” referencing the sensitivity around Princess Diana’s passing in 1997, showing his thoughtful approach to the song’s legacy.

Another tidbit for the Zoo Crew to share is the song’s music video, directed by Ken Russell, which features footage of Princess Diana, adding a visual layer to its cheeky narrative. The song’s exclusion from Reckless didn’t dim its charm; it remains one of Adams’ most prominent non-album tracks, with its catchy melody and bold lyrics capturing the era’s pop-rock vibe. Adams’ decision to keep it off the main album highlights his knack for balancing humor with respect, a trait that resonates with fans who vibe with his down-to-earth style. Zoo Freaks can stream this gem on platforms like SoundCloud, where it continues to spark nostalgia for the ‘80s.

Now, let’s rewind to how Bryan Adams kicked off his rock journey. Born on November 5, 1959, in Kingston, Ontario, to British immigrant parents, Adams grew up in Ottawa before settling in Vancouver during his teens. His musical spark ignited early—he bought his first electric guitar, an imitation Strat, at age 10 in England, and by 12, he was tinkering with an Estey grand piano, funded by his parents’ college savings. Dropping out of school to chase music, Adams played in a band called Shock and took odd jobs, like washing dishes and selling pet food, to cover rent. At 16, he joined the glam rock band Sweeney Todd as a vocalist, appearing on their 1977 album If Wishes Were Horses, but left soon after to go solo. His first single, “Let Me Take You Dancing,” dropped in 1978, a disco-infused track that showed his early versatility.

The real game-changer came when Adams, at 18, met Jim Vallance in a Vancouver music store. Vallance, a former Prism drummer, became his songwriting partner, and their collaboration shaped Adams’ signature sound. By 1980, he released his self-titled debut album, but it was 1983’s Cuts Like a Knife, with hits like “Straight From the Heart,” that broke him in North America. The 1984 album Reckless catapulted him to global stardom, boasting chart-toppers like “Summer of ‘69” and “Run to You.” Adams’ raspy voice and heartland rock style, paired with his relentless touring, cemented his place as a Canadian icon, selling over 75 million records worldwide.

Zoo Freaks can connect with Bryan Adams on his Facebook, where he has over 5.6 million followers, sharing tour updates and throwback posts, or on Instagram, where he posts tour photos and behind-the-scenes snaps. On X, he engages fans with quick updates and responses, like his 2014 “Diana” comment. For deeper dives, check out fan sites like the Bryan Adams Wiki on Fandom, packed with career details, or join the Bryan Adams Fan Club on Facebook to vibe with fellow fans. The Zoo Crew can keep the retro spirit alive with these links, spinning Adams’ classics for all the Zoo Freaks out there!