The Flame Still Burns

The Zoo Crew is spinning Foreigner’s "The Flame Still Burns" from the album 40, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks vibing with its classic rock energy. This song, released in 2016 as part of a Record Store Day exclusive 10-inch vinyl EP, was originally written by Mick Jones in 1998 for the film Still Crazy. The 2016 version, featured on the EP, is a previously unreleased electric rendition that packs the band’s signature gritty yet soulful punch. Only 1,500 vinyl pressings were made available through Rhino Records, making it a rare gem for collectors. The release kicked off Foreigner’s 40th anniversary celebrations, which included a 2017 tour and the publication of A Foreigner’s Tale, the band’s first official biography, available exclusively via Foreignerbook.com. The music video for "The Flame Still Burns" takes an emotional look back at four decades of the band’s AOR history, blending nostalgic footage with their enduring passion for rock.

Trivia about the song reveals its deep ties to Foreigner’s legacy. According to PopMatters, the track is a testament to the band’s ability to stick to their tried-and-true formula of guitar-driven rock and infectious melodies, even in their later years. Mick Jones, the band’s driving force, has spoken about the song’s creation in interviews, noting its roots in the 1998 film project but emphasizing the 2016 version’s fresh energy as a nod to the band’s resilience. Fans on Facebook have shared their love for the EP, with some calling it a “hidden treasure” that captures Foreigner’s raw spirit. The song’s inclusion on the 40 compilation album, which celebrates the band’s 40th anniversary since their 1977 debut, underscores its role as a bridge between their classic hits and newer material. The album itself, with tracks like "The Flame Still Burns" and two new recordings, shows that Foreigner still has “a bit of the old magic and spark left,” as noted by critic David Chiu.

Foreigner’s journey began in 1976 when British guitarist Mick Jones, a seasoned musician who’d played with Spooky Tooth and backed French rock star Johnny Halliday, teamed up with multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald and American vocalist Lou Gramm in New York City. Jones, inspired by the gritty rock scene of the ‘70s, wanted to create a band that blended British and American influences, resulting in a sound that was both polished and raw. Their self-titled debut album in 1977, featuring hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice," went five times platinum in the U.S. and cracked the top 10 in multiple countries. The band’s name, “Foreigner,” reflected the transatlantic mix of its members, with Jones and McDonald hailing from the UK and Gramm and others from the U.S. Over the years, the band evolved through lineup changes, with Jones as the constant, steering Foreigner to global sales of over 80 million records, cementing their status as one of rock’s best-selling acts.

Stay connected with Foreigner through their official website, where you can find tour dates, merch, and updates on their latest projects. Follow them on Facebook for fan discussions and throwback posts, Instagram for behind-the-scenes shots and live performance clips, and X for real-time updates and interactions. Fans have built vibrant communities online, including the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group, where Zoo Freaks and others share memories, rare photos, and concert stories. Another great spot is Foreigner Forums, a fan-run site offering detailed band history, discography, and lively message boards for die-hard supporters. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the scene, these platforms keep the flame burning for Foreigner’s timeless rock legacy.