Spread Your Wings

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track Spread Your Wings by Dweezil Zappa and Tommy Shaw from the album Guitar Shredding Heroes, and Zoo Freaks, this one’s a real gem! This song is actually a cover of a Queen classic, originally penned by John Deacon in 1977, and was reimagined for the 2001 tribute album Stone Cold Queen. What makes this version stand out is the all-star lineup: Dweezil Zappa’s blistering guitar work, Tommy Shaw’s soaring vocals, Tim Bogert on bass, Derek Sherinian on keys, and Steve Ferrone on drums. In a 2000 interview with Guitar Noise, Tommy Shaw shared his excitement about the project, saying he jumped at the chance to honor Queen, noting how their music pushed him to elevate his performance. Dweezil, in a post on his Instagram, mentioned how the recording session was a “shred fest,” with each musician trying to outdo the other in the best way possible, creating a vibe that’s both reverent to the original and uniquely their own.

Now, let’s dive into how Dweezil Zappa got his start. Born on September 5, 1969, in Los Angeles, Dweezil is the son of legendary composer and performer Frank Zappa. Growing up surrounded by music, he was drawn to the guitar early on, learning from icons like Steve Vai and Eddie Van Halen. At just 12, he released his first single, My Mother Was A Space Cadet, produced by Van Halen himself. Dweezil’s career took off in the 1980s with solo albums and gigs as a session musician, but he’s perhaps best known for carrying on his father’s legacy through the tribute band Zappa Plays Zappa. His official website, dweezilzappa.com, is a hub for his music, tour dates, and guitar masterclasses. You can follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates on his latest projects. Fans also gather at the Zappa Fans Facebook Group, a lively community sharing stories and rare recordings.

Tommy Shaw’s journey began in Montgomery, Alabama, where he was born on September 11, 1953. A self-taught guitarist, he played in local bands like The Smoke Ring before catching the eye of Styx during a Chicago gig with his band MSFunk. Joining Styx in 1975, Shaw became a key part of their success, contributing hits like Renegade and Blue Collar Man. Beyond Styx, he formed Damn Yankees and released solo albums, showcasing his versatility. His official website, tommyshaw.net, offers insights into his discography and tour schedule. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can join the Styx Fans Facebook Group, where Shaw’s contributions are celebrated alongside the band’s legacy.

Zoo Freaks, whether you’re shredding air guitar to Dweezil’s solos or singing along with Tommy’s vocals, Spread Your Wings is a testament to their passion for music that transcends genres. Check out their websites and socials to dive deeper into their worlds, and keep it locked to THE ZOO for more tracks that make your soul soar!