Free Ride

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Free Ride" by the Edgar Winter Group, from their 1972 album They Only Come Out at Night, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, written and sung by the talented Dan Hartman, is more than just a catchy rock anthem—it’s a spiritual journey wrapped in a road-trip vibe. According to Songfacts, Hartman had already penned "Free Ride" before joining the band, and Edgar Winter added the uplifting lyrics, “We got to do better, it’s time to begin / You know all the answers must come from within,” to emphasize a message of inner salvation. The song’s signature guitar riff, played by Hartman himself, has a unique feel that Winter once said nobody else could replicate. Interestingly, the single version of "Free Ride" released in July 1973 featured more synthesizer activity than the album cut, which some believe may have affected its initial chart performance. It only hit #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 after the success of "Frankenstein," but its upbeat energy made it a radio staple and a favorite in films like Dazed and Confused and Air America.

Behind the scenes, the recording of They Only Come Out at Night was a collaborative effort with an all-star lineup. The album featured Ronnie Montrose on guitar, Rick Derringer as producer and guitarist, and Hartman’s multi-instrumental genius. In a 1973 performance on The Midnight Special, Hartman rocked a double-necked guitar while delivering soulful vocals, with Winter providing keyboard and organ support, happily letting his bandmates shine. Winter later reflected on the album’s creation in a Best Classic Bands interview, saying, “We were just having fun. Play the music you love and follow your heart, and you can’t go wrong.” Tragically, Hartman passed away in 1994 at age 43, and Winter has since shared how much he thinks of his friend’s talent every time he performs "Free Ride." The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its use in modern commercials, like Ford’s 2015 "Free Ride Sales Event" and Amazon Prime Video’s 2020 Troop Zero spot.

Edgar Winter, born Edgar Holland Winter on December 28, 1946, in Beaumont, Texas, was destined for a life in music. Both he and his older brother, blues legend Johnny Winter, were born with albinism, which made them stand out visually as much as their talent did musically. Growing up in a musical family, Winter mastered multiple instruments—keyboards, saxophone, percussion—and even learned to read and write music early on. His career kicked off in his teens, playing in local bands, and he got a major break when Johnny included him in his band, leading to Edgar performing at Woodstock in 1969 before releasing his own album. His 1970 debut, Entrance, showcased his genre-blending style, mixing rock, jazz, blues, and pop. By 1972, Winter formed the Edgar Winter Group, recruiting Hartman, Montrose, and Chuck Ruff, and their album They Only Come Out at Night became a massive hit, reaching #3 on the Billboard 200 and earning platinum status. Winter’s innovation, like inventing the keyboard body strap, allowed him to deliver high-energy performances that captivated audiences.

Fans can connect with Edgar Winter through his official website for tour dates, music, and merchandise. His social media presence is active on Facebook, where he shares updates and interacts with fans, and on Instagram, where he posts behind-the-scenes moments. On X, Winter engages with followers, and a recent post from user @bluezharp on December 28, 2024, celebrated his birthday with a nod to "Free Ride." Zoo Freaks looking for community can join the Edgar Winter Fans Facebook Group, a vibrant space for sharing memories and discussing his music. While no official fan websites are widely recognized, the Last.fm page for the Edgar Winter Group offers track insights and fan recommendations. Winter, now 78, continues to tour and record, carrying the legacy of "Free Ride" and his genre-defying sound to new generations.