String You Up

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "String You Up" by Dash Rip Rock from their 1998 album Pay Dirt, getting their Zoo Freaks fired up with its raw, high-energy vibe. This track, a standout on the album, captures the band’s signature blend of punk, rockabilly, and Southern rock, with a gritty edge that’s perfect for late-night airwaves. While specific interviews or social media posts about "String You Up" are scarce, the song’s raucous spirit aligns with the band’s reputation for wild live performances. In a 2018 interview with OffBeat Magazine, frontman Bill Davis described the Pay Dirt era as a time when the band was “just tearing it up, playing dive bars and colleges, feeding off the crowd’s energy.” The song’s lyrics, with their playful menace, reflect that chaotic, in-your-face attitude, making it a fan favorite at live shows where Zoo Freaks would likely be pogoing in the pit.

Trivia about "String You Up" ties to its place on Pay Dirt, an album that marked a pivotal moment for Dash Rip Rock. According to a post on the band’s Facebook page from 2020, the album was recorded in a whirlwind session in New Orleans, with the band aiming to capture their live sound’s rawness. The track’s twangy guitar riffs and driving rhythm section were reportedly laid down in just a few takes, showcasing the band’s tight chemistry. Fans on the Dash Rip Rock Fan Club Facebook group often cite "String You Up" as a go-to song for its infectious hook, with one member recalling a 1999 gig where the band played it twice in one set due to crowd demand. Though Instagram posts from the band don’t directly mention the song, recent clips of their live shows highlight the same rebellious energy that "String You Up" embodies, proving it’s still a staple in their setlists.

Dash Rip Rock got their start in 1984 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, born out of the vibrant college music scene. Founded by singer-guitarist Bill Davis, the band began as a trio blending punk’s aggression with the rootsy sounds of country and rockabilly. Davis, a Louisiana native, drew inspiration from local legends like The LeRoi Brothers and his own experiences playing in bar bands. As detailed on their official bio page, the band’s early days were spent gigging relentlessly across the South, building a cult following with their high-octane shows. Their debut album, Dash Rip Rock, released in 1986, caught the attention of critics and landed them a deal with Mammoth Records, setting the stage for their 90s output like Pay Dirt. Over the decades, the band has stayed true to their independent ethos, earning praise as “the South’s greatest bar band” from outlets like AllMusic.

Today, Dash Rip Rock remains active, with a loyal fanbase connecting through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. Their social media is a mix of tour updates, throwback photos, and shoutouts to fans, keeping the Zoo Freaks in the loop. The Dash Rip Rock Fan Club on Facebook is a lively hub where fans share concert memories, swap merch, and discuss tracks like "String You Up." While no official fan websites appear to be active, the band’s official site serves as a central spot for tour dates, merch, and their discography. Whether you’re a Zoo Freak or a new listener, Dash Rip Rock’s rowdy legacy and songs like "String You Up" keep the party going strong.