I’m Ready

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with some juicy trivia about I’m Ready by Bryan Adams, spinning now at THE ZOO! This track from the 1983 album Cuts Like a Knife wasn’t always the acoustic gem some know it as. Originally written by Adams and his longtime collaborator Jim Vallance, it first appeared in 1979, recorded by Ian Lloyd for his album Goose Bumps, with Vallance himself banging the drums. Fast forward to 1983, Adams gave it his own spin as a straightforward rock anthem, complete with electric guitar and synth vibes, co-produced with Bob Clearmountain. But here’s the wild part: it wasn’t until 1998 that I’m Ready truly blew up, thanks to its inclusion on Adams’ Unplugged album. Producer Patrick Leonard handpicked it for the live set, and it was transformed into an acoustic ballad with lush string orchestrations by Michael Kamen, performed by Juilliard School students. Talk about a glow-up!

Another cool tidbit? I’m Ready has been a fan favorite at Adams’ live shows for decades, often popping up in his setlists and live albums. Its enduring appeal lies in its raw, heartfelt lyrics and that classic Adams rasp, which, as he mentioned in a 2024 Songwriter Universe interview, comes from his knack for crafting melodies that stick. Adams has also shared on his Instagram how much he loves revisiting tracks like this for special performances, like the 2022 Royal Albert Hall show where he filmed a new video for I’m Ready to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Cuts Like a Knife. That clip, posted on his X account, had Zoo Freak energy written all over it—pure rock nostalgia!

Now, let’s rewind to how Bryan Adams kicked off his epic journey. Born November 5, 1959, in Kingston, Ontario, this Canadian rocker was destined for music. With a dad in the Canadian army and a diplomat gig that had the family bouncing around, Adams landed in Vancouver after his parents’ divorce. By age 16, he was done with high school and all in on music, having already fronted the glam-rock band Sweeney Todd, belting out vocals for their 1977 album If Wishes Were Horses. He taught himself guitar, hustled in recording studios, and hit the road, soaking up every bit of the music scene. His big break came at 20 with his self-titled debut album in 1980, but it was Cuts Like a Knife in 1983 that launched him into stardom, with hits like Straight from the Heart and the title track. Adams’ grit, paired with his songwriting chops alongside Jim Vallance, set the stage for a career that’s seen him sell over 75 million records worldwide.

Want to dive deeper into Adams’ world? Check out his official website for tour dates, merch, and news. Connect with him on Facebook, where over 5.6 million fans hang out, or follow his Instagram for behind-the-scenes snaps and tour updates. His X account is the spot for real-time chats and throwback posts, like the one about the Cuts Like a Knife anniversary. For Zoo Freaks looking to join the tribe, there’s the Bryan Adams Fan Club on Facebook, a chill spot for fans to swap stories and celebrate the rocker. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let’s keep the I’m Ready vibes flowing!