Can’t Stop It But I'm Gonna Try

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the classic track "Can’t Stop It But I’m Gonna Try" by Cheap Trick from their 1980 album All Shook Up. This song, a fan favorite among the Zoo Freaks, captures the raw emotion of heartbreak with its driving rhythm and Rick Nielsen’s signature guitar riffs. According to Lyrics.com, the song’s lyrics reflect a struggle to move on from a fading love, with lines like “Can’t stop lovin’ you baby, but I’m gonna try.” Its release came at a pivotal moment for the band, as they were experimenting with a quirkier, less radio-friendly sound under the production of the legendary George Martin, known for his work with The Beatles. The Zoo Freaks no doubt vibe with the song’s rebellious spirit, as it was performed by Cheap Trick on Saturday Night Live on January 17, 1981, alongside “Baby Loves to Rock,” showcasing their electrifying live energy.

Behind the scenes, All Shook Up was a bold departure for Cheap Trick, with its experimental edge and surreal cover art inspired by René Magritte’s Time Transfixed. In a 1984 Billboard interview, bassist Tom Petersson revealed the intense schedule that led to his departure shortly after the album’s release, citing the band’s grueling 300-night-a-year touring and rapid recording pace. Posts on X from @cheaptrick highlight the album’s significance, noting its recording at Air Studios in Montserrat and London and its Gold certification by the RIAA within 10 weeks of release on October 24, 1980. The song’s raw emotion and the album’s adventurous production make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited playlist.

Cheap Trick began in Rockford, Illinois, in the early 1970s, blending power pop, hard rock, and a touch of punk attitude. Formed by guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Petersson, drummer Bun E. Carlos, and vocalist Robin Zander, the band honed their sound in Midwest bars and clubs. Nielsen’s knack for catchy riffs and quirky stage antics, paired with Zander’s soaring vocals, gave them a unique edge. Their big break came with their 1977 self-titled debut album, but it was the 1978 live album At Budokan, featuring the hit “I Want You to Want Me,” that catapulted them to international fame. The band’s relentless touring and DIY ethos resonated with fans, building a loyal following that persists today.

Fans of Cheap Trick, much like the Zoo Freaks, can connect with the band across social media. Their official website, cheaptrick.com, offers tour dates, merch, and news. On Facebook, they share updates and nostalgic throwbacks, while their Instagram features vibrant concert shots and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Their X account keeps the conversation lively with history tidbits and fan interactions. For deeper fan engagement, groups like the Cheap Trick Fan Club on Facebook offer a space for devotees to share stories, photos, and memorabilia, keeping the band’s legacy alive.