I’m Easy

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "I'm Easy" by David Lee Roth from his 1986 album Eat 'Em and Smile. This track is one of two lounge-style covers on the album, showcasing Roth’s love for blending hard rock with theatrical, vaudeville-inspired flair. Originally written by Billy Field and Tom Price, "I'm Easy" was reimagined by Roth with a swaggering, over-the-top delivery that fits his larger-than-life persona. In a 1986 interview with Rolling Stone, Roth described his approach to covers like this one as a way to “pay homage to the lounge lizards and crooners” he admired growing up, while still cranking up the rock energy. The song’s playful vibe and Roth’s tongue-in-cheek performance made it a standout, though it didn’t chart as high as singles like "Yankee Rose." Fans on X have called it a “hidden gem” for its catchy melody and Roth’s ability to make a jazz-pop tune feel like a rock anthem.

Another tidbit about "I'm Easy" comes from bassist Billy Sheehan, who played on Eat 'Em and Smile. In a 2016 Guitar World interview, Sheehan shared that the band recorded the album in a whirlwind, with Roth pushing for a raw, live feel. For this track, Roth reportedly nailed his vocal takes in just a few tries, leaning into his showman instincts to give it a spontaneous, almost cabaret-like energy. The song’s placement on the album, nestled among hard-hitting rockers like "Shy Boy" and "Tobacco Road," highlights Roth’s eclectic taste, which he later discussed on his podcast, The Roth Show. He mentioned loving the contrast of “throwing a curveball” with lounge covers to keep listeners guessing. Fan discussions on the David Lee Roth Fan Club Facebook group often praise "I'm Easy" for its bold, unapologetic vibe, with some calling it a perfect example of Roth’s ability to blend humor and musicianship.

David Lee Roth, born October 10, 1954, in Bloomington, Indiana, kicked off his career with a passion for music sparked by his father’s love for artists like Al Jolson and Frank Sinatra. Raised in a family of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, Roth moved to California as a teenager, where he dove into the rock scene. By the early 1970s, he was singing in local bands like Red Ball Jets, performing covers of Led Zeppelin and Alice Cooper. His big break came when he joined a Pasadena group called Mammoth, which soon became Van Halen. Roth’s charisma, acrobatic stage antics, and distinctive voice helped the band land a deal with Warner Bros., leading to their 1978 debut album, a hard rock milestone. His larger-than-life persona, honed through years of performing in small clubs, made him a standout frontman, earning him the nickname “Diamond Dave.”

After leaving Van Halen in 1985, Roth launched his solo career with the EP Crazy from the Heat, followed by Eat 'Em and Smile, where he assembled a powerhouse band including Steve Vai, Billy Sheehan, and Gregg Bissonette. His ability to fuse hard rock with theatrical elements, as seen in "I'm Easy," stemmed from his early exposure to diverse musical styles and his uncle Manny Roth’s New York nightclub, where he soaked up the energy of live performance. Roth’s career has since spanned music, acting, and even a stint as a radio host, with a 2007 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Van Halen. Fans can connect with him on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For more fan interaction, check out the Roth Army fan site or join the David Lee Roth Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can share their love for Diamond Dave’s wild, unforgettable legacy.