Girl From Lebanon

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Girl From Lebanon" by Europe, a track from their 1991 album Prisoners In Paradise, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the vibe. This song, a powerful and emotional closer to the album, carries a message of breaking free from constraints and embracing freedom, with lyrics like "It's time to break out from the cage" resonating with its uplifting rock energy. According to a review on MyRockMixtapes, "Girl From Lebanon" is considered the "hidden jewel" of the album, praised for its intense and heartfelt delivery. In his 2011 biography, guitarist Kee Marcello revealed that the album, initially titled Seventh Sign, was rejected by Epic Records in 1990, forcing the band to rewrite and record new material, including this track. Marcello also noted that producer Bob Rock was the first choice for the album but left to work with Metallica, leaving Beau Hill to shape the final sound. The song's creation was part of a turbulent period for the band, as Prisoners In Paradise marked Marcello's last album with Europe before their 1992 hiatus.

Europe, the Swedish rock band behind "Girl From Lebanon," formed in Upplands Väsby in 1979 under the name Force. The core members—vocalist Joey Tempest, guitarist John Norum, bassist Peter Olsson, and drummer Tony Reno—started as teenagers chasing a dream. Their big break came in 1982 when they won the Swedish Rock Championships, a televised talent contest, earning them a record deal. After releasing two albums in Sweden as Europe, Europe (1983) and Wings of Tomorrow (1984), they signed with Epic Records. By then, Reno had been replaced by Ian Haugland, and keyboardist Mic Michaeli joined, rounding out the classic lineup. Their 1986 album, The Final Countdown, propelled them to global fame, with the title track becoming a defining anthem of the '80s. The band’s melodic pop-metal sound, blending Tempest’s soaring vocals with Michaeli’s prominent keyboards, set them apart in the glam metal era.

Fans can connect with Europe through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, throwback photos, and new music teasers. The band’s official website, europetheband.com, offers tour dates, merchandise, and a detailed band history. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The Europe - The Band (Fans Worldwide) Facebook group is a vibrant space where fans discuss albums, share concert memories, and celebrate the band’s legacy. Another active hub, Europe Fans, connects supporters globally, fostering a tight-knit community for trading rare memorabilia and organizing meetups at shows.