Urgent (Zoo Version)

The song "Urgent (Zoo Version)" by Foreigner, featured on their seminal album 4, carries a distinctive edge that resonates with the free-spirited vibe of the Zoo Crew and their Zoo Freaks audience. While the "Zoo Version" isn't explicitly detailed in historical records, it’s likely a playful nod to a remixed or live rendition tailored for radio play, possibly with added flair to suit the hippie DJs' eclectic style. The original "Urgent," released in 1981, is iconic for its blistering saxophone solo by Autry DeWalt Mixon Jr., better known as Junior Walker, a Motown legend who led Jr. Walker & The All Stars. Foreigner shared on X that Walker’s contribution was a defining moment, with his soulful sax elevating the track’s raw energy. In a 2018 post on Facebook, the band highlighted how the song’s creation was spotlighted in Classic Rock Magazine, noting its urgent (pun intended) recording process, driven by producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange’s vision for a punchy, radio-ready hit. The track’s infectious rhythm and Mick Jones’ searing guitar riffs made it a staple, peaking at No. 4 on the US Hot 100 and topping the US Album Rock Tracks chart.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s production at Electric Lady Studios in New York City, a place steeped in musical history. The band worked with engineer Dave Wittman and enlisted Thomas Dolby, who added the signature synth sound that gives "Urgent" its futuristic pulse. Dolby’s contribution, particularly the atmospheric intro, was a subtle but crucial texture, blending rock with new wave elements. Fans on platforms like the Foreigner Fan Club group often share stories of how "Urgent" defined their concert experiences, with its live performances amplifying the song’s raw intensity. The track’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued airplay, perfectly suited for the Zoo Crew’s vinyl-spinning sessions, where its high-octane groove keeps the Zoo Freaks dancing.

Foreigner was formed in 1976 in New York City by British guitarist Mick Jones, who had previously played with acts like Spooky Tooth and the Leslie West Band. Jones, a seasoned musician with a knack for crafting hooks, teamed up with vocalist Lou Gramm, drummer Dennis Elliott, keyboardist Al Greenwood, bassist Ed Gagliardi, and multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald, a former member of King Crimson. The band’s name, as Jones explained in interviews, reflected the transatlantic makeup—half British, half American—making them "foreigners" wherever they played. Their self-titled debut in 1977, featuring hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice," catapulted them to stardom, with sales eventually surpassing 80 million records worldwide. The band’s early days were marked by relentless touring and a commitment to blending hard rock with pop sensibilities, a formula that crystallized on 4 in 1981, which became their biggest album, hitting No. 1 in the US for 10 weeks.

Foreigner’s journey wasn’t without challenges. The departure of McDonald and Greenwood before 4 slimmed the band to a quartet, forcing Jones and Gramm to sharpen their songwriting. Their persistence paid off, with 4 showcasing a leaner, more focused sound. Today, fans can stay connected through Foreigner’s official website, where updates on tours and releases are posted, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Dedicated fan communities thrive online, including the Foreigner Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memorabilia, concert photos, and stories. Another fan hub, Foreigner Rocks, offers a deep dive into the band’s discography and history, keeping the spirit of tracks like "Urgent" alive for new and old Zoo Freaks alike.