Rev On The Red Line

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Rev On The Red Line" by Foreigner, a high-energy track from their 1979 album Head Games, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it. This song, a fan favorite, never hit the charts as a single but gained a strong following as the B-side to "Dirty White Boy." Critics have praised its infectious rhythm and standout musicianship. Classic Rock critic Malcolm Dome ranked it #10 among Foreigner's most underrated songs, highlighting its "sublime melody" and Lou Gramm's powerful vocal performance, noting how the band members "show their skills, without ever showing off." Ultimate Classic Rock's Eduardo Rivadavia also lauded the track, calling Mick Jones' guitar solo "sizzling" and naming it one of Foreigner's best B-sides. However, not all reviews were glowing—PopMatters critic Evan Sawdey dismissed it as "paint-by-numbers rock," showing the song's polarizing reception.

A notable story about "Rev On The Red Line" comes from Lou Gramm himself, shared during a 2016 interview on the Brother Wease radio show in Rochester, NY. Gramm revealed the song was inspired by his own experiences in Rochester, tying it to the local music scene. This personal connection resonated with fans, as seen in a Reddit post on the r/Rochester subreddit, which garnered 22 votes and sparked discussion among locals. The song's live performances also pack a punch—Foreigner’s official Facebook page shared a 2021 performance from Pala Casino, boasting that the rendition "kicks every single ass," a sentiment echoed by fans in the comments. Its enduring appeal is further evident in posts on r/Musicthemetime, where fans continue to celebrate its raw energy.

Foreigner was formed in 1976 in New York City by British musician Mick Jones, formerly of Spooky Tooth, and ex-King Crimson member Ian McDonald, alongside American vocalist Lou Gramm. The band’s name came from the mix of British and American members, a nod to the "foreigner" status of someone in the group no matter where they played. Jones, the band’s creative force, had a vision for a rock sound blending melody and muscle, drawing from his years in the UK music scene. Gramm, a Rochester native with a commanding voice, was discovered after Jones saw him perform with his band Black Sheep. Their debut self-titled album in 1977 went five times platinum, driven by hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice." This success laid the foundation for Head Games, their third album, which reached #5 on the Billboard 200 and cemented their status as rock heavyweights.

Today, Foreigner remains active, with Mick Jones leading a lineup that includes vocalist Kelly Hansen. Fans can stay connected through their Facebook page, which has over 2.9 million followers, their Instagram account for tour updates and behind-the-scenes content, and their X profile, where they share news like their 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. For deeper fan engagement, sites like Foreigner’s official fan club offer exclusive content and community access. Dedicated fan communities also thrive on platforms like Foreigner Fans on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memorabilia, concert stories, and love for tracks like "Rev On The Red Line." These spaces keep the Zoo Freaks’ vibe alive, celebrating Foreigner’s legacy with every spin.