Fool for the City

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as the Zoo Crew spins Fool for the City by Foghat from their iconic 1975 album of the same name! This track, a boogie rock anthem, captures the gritty allure of urban life with its driving rhythm and electrifying guitar riffs. One juicy tidbit about the song comes from drummer Roger Earl, who shared in a 2014 interview that the album’s unforgettable cover—featuring him fishing in a New York City manhole—was a spontaneous idea from producer Nick Jameson. Shot on a sleepless Sunday morning near 229 East 11th Street, the scene drew the attention of passing cops who jokingly asked Earl if he had a fishing license, adding a lighthearted moment to the shoot. The cover perfectly embodies the band’s tongue-in-cheek humor, making it as memorable as the song itself.

Another piece of trivia ties to the song’s creation. According to Roger Earl, Fool for the City and its monster hit Slow Ride were born from jam sessions where the band would record, splice, and stitch together the best bits. Earl noted that Slow Ride, which shares the album’s spotlight, was inspired by a John Lee Hooker riff, reworked into a 4/4 beat. This organic, jam-driven process gave the album its raw, unpolished energy, resonating with fans who loved Foghat’s no-frills approach. On Reddit, fans still rave about the song’s live performances, with one user calling it a “killer” track that epitomized 70s rock alongside bands like Aerosmith. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its rare but impactful use in media, like the 2013 film Nebraska, proving its staying power.

Now, let’s rewind to how Foghat got their start. Formed in London in 1971, the band emerged from the ashes of blues-rock outfit Savoy Brown. Frontman “Lonesome” Dave Peverett, drummer Roger Earl, and bassist Tony Stevens, all Savoy Brown alumni, teamed up with guitarist Rod Price, formerly of Black Cat Bones, to create a new sound rooted in blues and boogie rock. The band’s name, as legend has it, came from Peverett during a Scrabble game, though its exact origins remain a bit of a mystery—some even link it to a 1968 album title by musician Phil Yost. Foghat relocated to the U.S. early on, where their relentless touring honed their craft. By 1975, their fifth album, Fool for the City, marked their breakthrough, earning platinum status and cementing their legacy with hits like Slow Ride. Despite lineup changes and the loss of key members like Peverett in 2000, Foghat’s current lineup, led by Earl, continues to rock with the same infectious energy.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, connect with Foghat’s official website for tour dates, merch, and their latest album, Sonic Mojo. Follow them on Facebook for updates like their Grammy-nominated album announcement or birthday celebrations for Roger Earl. Their Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses, while their X account keeps the conversation rocking with fans. For community vibes, check out fan discussions on the Foghat Fan Club on Facebook or join the chatter on Classic Rock Forums, where devotees share album recommendations and memories. Keep it groovy, Zoo Freaks, and let Fool for the City take you on a wild ride!