Women (Live 1993)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Women (Live 1993)" by Foreigner, a track that captures the band’s raw energy in a live setting. Originally from their 1979 album Head Games, "Women" is a gritty rock anthem with a driving riff and Lou Gramm’s unmistakable vocals. In a 2016 interview with Songfacts, Mick Jones shared that the band aimed for simplicity and catchiness in their songwriting, which shines through in "Women" with its infectious hook. The live 1993 version, often celebrated by fans, showcases Foreigner’s ability to electrify audiences years after the song’s debut. On X, fans have posted about the song’s enduring appeal, with one Zoo Freak calling it “a timeless banger that still gets the crowd moving.” Interestingly, the song’s lyrics, while straightforward, sparked debate among listeners about their meaning, with Jones once hinting in a radio interview that they reflect the complexities of relationships observed on tour.

Another tidbit about "Women" comes from Lou Gramm’s memoir, Juke Box Hero, where he mentions the band’s live performances in the early ’90s were a way to reconnect with fans after lineup changes. The 1993 rendition highlights Thom Gimbel’s saxophone flair, adding a fresh layer to the classic track. A fan on Foreigner’s Facebook recalled seeing them perform it live that year, noting how the crowd sang along so loudly it drowned out the band. Posts on Instagram often feature throwback clips of similar performances, with comments praising the band’s chemistry. The song’s raw vibe resonates with Zoo Freaks, who vibe with its unpolished, rebellious spirit—perfect for a hippie DJ crew like The Zoo Crew.

Foreigner’s origin story began in 1976 in New York City, when British guitarist Mick Jones teamed up with American vocalist Lou Gramm, drummer Dennis Elliott, keyboardist Al Greenwood, bassist Ed Gagliardi, and multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald. Jones, who’d previously played with Spooky Tooth, had a vision for a transatlantic rock sound, blending British precision with American swagger. The band’s name came from the mix of nationalities—half British, half American—meaning someone was always a “foreigner” no matter where they played. Their self-titled debut in 1977, with hits like “Feels Like the First Time,” skyrocketed them to fame, selling over five million copies in the U.S. alone. Jones’ production skills, honed working with artists like Billy Joel, gave their early records a polished yet punchy edge.

Foreigner’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. By the late ’70s, lineup changes and internal tensions tested them, but Jones and Gramm’s songwriting kept the hits coming. Their work ethic, as Gramm noted in a 2018 Rolling Stone interview, stemmed from a hunger to prove themselves in a competitive rock scene. Today, Foreigner remains a touring powerhouse, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024. Fans can connect with them on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Dedicated fan spaces include the Foreigner Fans Worldwide Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks might find kindred spirits sharing live bootlegs and memories. For more fan-driven content, Foreignermania offers a deep dive into the band’s legacy.