New Thing

The Zoo Crew is spinning "New Thing" by Enuff Z'Nuff, a track from their 1989 self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its catchy power pop hooks. This song, which peaked at #67 on the US Hot 100, has a fascinating backstory. Written in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, the demo was recorded in bassist Chip Z'Nuff's modest one-bedroom apartment, where he was so broke he could barely afford the rent. The band played the demo, along with two other tracks, over the phone for their management company at 2 AM. Chip knew they had something special when the management asked to hear the songs four times. The song's music video also made waves, landing in heavy rotation on MTV and earning a spot on the New York Times list of the "15 Essential Hair-Metal Videos," cementing its place in the late '80s rock scene.

Another tidbit about "New Thing" comes from the band's own reflection on their debut album's release. On August 22, 2018, Enuff Z'Nuff's official X account posted a heartfelt thank you to fans for sticking with them since the album's launch on August 22, 1989, highlighting the enduring love for tracks like "New Thing." The song's infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, which speak to moving on from heartbreak, resonated with fans, contributing to the band's cult following, which includes notable figures like radio personality Howard Stern. Its blend of glam and power pop set it apart from the heavier hair metal bands of the era, showcasing the band's unique sound.

Enuff Z'Nuff was formed in 1984 in Blue Island, Illinois, by singer Donnie Vie and bassist Chip Z'Nuff, with the band originally called "Enough Z'Nuff." The name, a playful twist on "enough's enough," reflected their bold, tongue-in-cheek attitude. Joined by guitarist Gino Martino and drummer B.W. Boeski, they quickly built a local following with their energetic live shows. Their first single, "Fingers on It," gained minor recognition after being featured in the 1986 film Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer. This early exposure helped them refine their sound, blending influences from Cheap Trick, Badfinger, and The Beatles with a flashy, glam-inspired edge. By the late '80s, their persistence paid off with a deal from Atco Records, leading to the release of their debut album and the breakout singles "New Thing" and "Fly High Michelle."

Despite being marketed as a hair metal band, Enuff Z'Nuff leaned heavily into power pop, which both defined their sound and set them apart from their peers. Over the years, they faced personal and professional challenges but continued to tour and record, releasing 12 studio albums and 19 CDs. Their music has been covered by artists like Paul Gilbert, The Wildhearts, and Nelson, a testament to their lasting influence. Fans can connect with the band through their official Facebook page, Instagram account, and X profile, where they share updates, tour dates, and nostalgic posts about their career.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, there are several fan-driven spaces to explore. The Enuff Z'Nuff Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where fans share memories, rare photos, and news about the band. Another great resource is Znuff Stuff, a fan website dedicated to the band’s discography, history, and merchandise. These platforms keep the spirit of Enuff Z'Nuff alive, offering a space for fans to celebrate the band’s legacy and tracks like "New Thing" that continue to inspire.