It's Not Love

Zoo Freaks, the Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "It's Not Love" by Dokken from their 1985 album Under Lock and Key, and we've got some juicy trivia to share! One of the standout stories about this song comes from its iconic music video, which was filmed on a flatbed truck cruising down Hollywood Boulevard. According to a post on X, the local radio station KNAC announced the shoot, prompting a flood of fans to show up and join the party, creating a vibrant, spontaneous scene that captured the '80s glam metal vibe. The song itself is a fan favorite, with its catchy chorus and gang vocals shouting "It's not love!"—a detail that some reviewers, like those on Encyclopaedia Metallum, found a bit cheesy but undeniably memorable. The track's playful energy is highlighted by a midsong phone dialogue, showcasing the band's ability to have fun despite internal tensions, as noted in reviews from the time.

Another tidbit about "It's Not Love" is its enduring presence in Dokken's live performances. A 2020 post on X by @80sGlamMetal1 shared a clip of the band rocking the song live in 1987, highlighting its status as a staple in their setlists. The song's production, handled by Michael Wagener, contributed to its polished, radio-friendly sound, which helped Under Lock and Key achieve platinum status. Reviews from Sleaze Roxx praise the track as one of the album's all-time classics, noting its almost perfect vocal harmonies between Don Dokken and bassist Jeff Pilson. Despite some critics, like those on Encyclopaedia Metallum, calling it laughably bad due to its over-the-top gang shouts, the song's infectious energy and George Lynch's killer guitar riffs have kept it a beloved anthem for Zoo Freaks and metalheads alike.

Dokken's journey began in Los Angeles in 1978, when frontman Don Dokken founded the band after playing in a group called Airborn. Born on June 29, 1953, Don's melodic, vibrato-laden vocals would become a defining feature of the band's sound. In the late '70s, he seized an opportunity to secure a record deal in Germany, but his initial attempts to recruit guitarist George Lynch and drummer Mick Brown from the band Xciter were unsuccessful. Undeterred, Don persisted, and with the help of a demo featuring one of Xciter's songs, he landed a deal with Carrere Records. Lynch and Brown, along with bassist Juan Croucier, eventually joined him, and the classic lineup was born. Their debut album, Breaking the Chains, was recorded in Germany between July and September 1981 with producers Michael Wagener and Dieter Dierks. Initially released under "Don Dokken," the album was later rebranded as a Dokken record, marking the start of their rise in the glam metal scene.

The band's breakthrough came with their second album, Tooth and Nail, in 1984, after Jeff Pilson replaced Croucier, who left to join Ratt. This album, featuring hits like "Just Got Lucky" and "Alone Again," sold over a million copies and established Dokken as a major player in the '80s metal scene. Their third album, Under Lock and Key, further solidified their success, with "It's Not Love" and other tracks showcasing their knack for blending melodic hooks with heavy riffs. Despite internal conflicts, particularly between Don Dokken and George Lynch, the band sold over 10 million albums worldwide and earned a Grammy nomination for their live album Beast from the East in 1989. Don remains the only original member, leading the band with current members Jon Levin, Mick Brown, and Chris McCarvill.

For more on Dokken, check out their official website for tour dates, merch, and music. Connect with them on social media via their Facebook page, which boasts 264K likes, their Instagram for behind-the-scenes content, and their X account for the latest updates. Fans can also dive into the Dokken Wiki for detailed discography and history or join the Dokken Fan Club on Facebook to connect with fellow Zoo Freaks. Another great spot is the Classic Rock Forum, where fans share stories and discuss the band's legacy. Keep rocking, Zoo Freaks!