Coming of Age

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Coming of Age" by Damn Yankees, a high-energy track from their self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, released in 1990, was the supergroup’s first single, hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart and peaking at No. 60 on the Hot 100. In a Songfacts interview, Jack Blades shared a vivid story of the song’s creation: while rehearsing at his house, Tommy Shaw was upstairs tinkling on the grand piano, playing a repetitive riff. Blades, inspired, ran over and started singing, “Dressed to kill and looking dynamite with her high lace…” The band then moved downstairs, where Shaw translated the riff to guitar, Ted Nugent added his gritty guitar flair, and the song came together in a jam session, capturing their raw chemistry.

Another fun tidbit about "Coming of Age" comes from its music video, which found a home on VH1, a channel aimed at an older audience. Jack Blades noted in the same Songfacts interview that he never expected to see Ted Nugent, known for his wild rock persona, on VH1, making the video’s success a surprising milestone. The song’s infectious energy also led to a unique moment in 2011 when Nugent joined Blades’ band Night Ranger to record an extended version of "Coming of Age" for their album Somewhere in California. Instead of the original solo, Nugent wove in the iconic guitar riff from his hit "Stranglehold," blending the two tracks into a fresh take.

Damn Yankees formed in 1989 as a supergroup, bringing together rock veterans facing career slumps. Tommy Shaw, guitarist and vocalist from Styx, had seen his solo albums struggle to chart. Jack Blades, bassist and singer from Night Ranger, was at a crossroads after his band dissolved post their 1988 album. Ted Nugent, the Motor City Madman, was coming off a low point with his 1988 album barely cracking the charts. Drummer Michael Cartellone, who later joined Lynyrd Skynyrd, rounded out the lineup. Legendary A&R guru John Kalodner saw their potential and brought them together, aiming to revive their careers by combining their talents. Their debut album, released in 1990, went double-platinum, proving Kalodner’s vision right.

The band’s formation wasn’t just a business move; it was a creative spark. In a 2016 Ultimate Classic Rock interview, Blades recalled meeting Shaw in New York, where they clicked instantly, writing half the debut album in one weekend. Nugent’s raw energy added a distinct edge, though producer Ron Nevison noted he recorded his parts separately, wanting to lay down all rhythm guitars and solos in just two sessions. Despite their different approaches, the band’s synergy produced hits like "Coming of Age" and "High Enough," cementing their place in rock history.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, you can follow the band members’ current projects. Tommy Shaw’s official website keeps fans updated on his work with Styx, and you can find him on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Jack Blades’ website covers his Night Ranger gigs, and he’s active on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Ted Nugent’s site details his solo endeavors, with updates on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Michael Cartellone shares news via Lynyrd Skynyrd’s site and their Facebook, Instagram, and X pages. Since Damn Yankees doesn’t have an active official site or social media, fans can connect through the members’ platforms.

Fan communities are also thriving. The Damn Yankees Fan Club on Facebook is a great spot for Zoo Freaks to share memories and discuss the band’s music. For broader classic rock vibes, check out fan sites like Rate Your Music, where Damn Yankees’ discography is reviewed and rated. These spaces keep the spirit of "Coming of Age" alive, just like the Zoo Crew’s spins for their devoted listeners.