Don't Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the heartfelt power ballad "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)" by Cinderella from their triple-platinum album Long Cold Winter, and the Zoo Freaks are surely feeling the emotional pull of this 1988 hit. Written by frontman Tom Keifer, the song was inspired during a drive to the studio in Gladwyn, Pennsylvania, while the band worked on their debut album, Night Songs. Keifer recalled being on an "absolute high" after signing with Mercury Records, reflecting on how devastating it would be to lose that success, which sparked the song’s universal theme of appreciating what you have before it’s gone. Initially shelved, it was later included on Long Cold Winter with a relationship-focused lyrical angle, making it resonate deeply with listeners. The track became Cinderella’s highest-charting single, peaking at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its emotional depth set it apart from typical glam metal fare, as noted by music journalist Dan MacIntosh, who praised the band’s sincerity.

The music video for "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)" is a standout story, filmed at Mono Lake and Bodie State Historic Park in California, directed by British filmmaker Nick Morris. With a hefty budget from Mercury Records, the production was a logistical feat, featuring Tom Keifer playing a grand piano on a beach—a challenging setup in a protected national park. Morris shared a surreal anecdote about a helicopter used for aerial shots, piloted by an ex-Vietnam veteran, which needed a jump-start from a truck after failing to charge properly. The crew had to carry equipment by hand to avoid disturbing the landscape, and the band endured long waits for perfect lighting, yet their commitment resulted in an iconic video that received heavy rotation on MTV. Keifer later reimagined the song acoustically with his wife, Nashville singer/songwriter Savanah Snow, for a VH1 performance, a version they still play live, often transitioning to the electric classic that “brings the house down,” as Keifer told Louder.

Cinderella formed in Philadelphia in 1982, founded by vocalist and guitarist Tom Keifer and bassist Eric Brittingham. The duo, joined initially by guitarist Michael Schermick and drummer Tony Destra, started playing local clubs, honing a sound influenced by AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones. Their big break came when Jon Bon Jovi caught their live set and recommended them to Mercury Records, leading to a deal in 1985. By then, Schermick and Destra had left for Britny Fox, replaced by guitarist Jeff LaBar and drummer Jim Drnec, though session drummer Jody Cortez played on their debut, Night Songs. Released in 1986, the album went triple platinum, blending glam metal with bluesy rock, setting the stage for the more mature Long Cold Winter. Keifer’s raw, soulful vocals and songwriting, paired with the band’s tight musicianship, earned them a loyal following despite later challenges, including Keifer’s vocal cord issues in the early 1990s.

Fans can stay connected with Cinderella and Tom Keifer’s ongoing work through his official website, where updates on tours and solo projects are posted. The band’s Facebook page and Tom Keifer’s personal Facebook share live performance clips and news, while Keifer’s Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of his solo career. On X, Keifer engages with fans, often reflecting on Cinderella’s legacy. Zoo Freaks can also join fan communities like the Cinderella (Band) Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memories, rare photos, and discuss the band’s music. While Cinderella’s official site remains a hub for historical info, Keifer’s solo site is the go-to for current activities, keeping the spirit of the band alive for new and longtime fans.