Hide Away (Live 1975 @ January Sound Dallas)

The song "Hide Away," performed live by Freddie King in 1975 at January Sound Studios in Dallas, is a blues instrumental that has left an indelible mark on music history. Originally recorded in 1960, "Hide Away" became a hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot R&B chart and number 29 on the Hot 100, a rare feat for a blues instrumental at the time. The song’s origins are a fascinating blend of influences, as King himself admitted to drawing from Hound Dog Taylor’s "Taylor’s Boogie," with additional elements inspired by Robert Lockwood Jr., Jimmy McCracklin’s "The Walk," and even the "Peter Gunn Theme." King cleverly arranged these pieces into a commercial hit, adding a playful cue during live performances where he’d point his hand like a pistol to signal the band into the "Peter Gunn" section. The live 1975 version, captured at January Sound Studios for a KZEW-FM broadcast, showcases King’s raw energy and Texas blues flair, making it a fan favorite among Zoo Freaks tuning into THE ZOO.

Another intriguing story about "Hide Away" comes from Shakey Jake Harris, a harmonica player who worked with Magic Sam. He claimed the song was born at Mel’s Hide Away Lounge in Chicago, where it served as a theme for Magic Sam’s performances. According to Harris, King would jam with them, eventually adopting the tune and making it his own. This narrative is complicated by Willie Dixon’s assertion that a musician named Irving Spencer played a version of "Hide Away" years earlier, suggesting King’s hit was a culmination of Chicago’s vibrant blues scene. The song’s influence is undeniable, with artists like Eric Clapton, who covered it in 1966, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, who performed it live, cementing its status as a blues standard. Its recognition by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of the "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll" and a 1999 Grammy Hall of Fame award further highlight its legacy.

Freddie King, born Frederick Christian on September 3, 1934, in Gilmer, Texas, began his musical journey at the tender age of six, learning guitar from his mother, Ella Mae King, and his uncle. His early exposure to the instrument was rooted in the Texas blues tradition, but his family’s move to Chicago’s South Side in 1949 introduced him to the city’s electrified blues scene. As a teenager, King snuck into clubs to hear legends like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and T-Bone Walker, shaping his powerful, soulful style. By 1952, while working in a steel mill, he formed his first band, the Every Hour Blues Boys, with guitarist Jimmie Lee Robinson and drummer Frank "Sonny" Scott. King also played as a sideman with bands like the Little Sonny Cooper Band, honing his craft in Chicago’s competitive blues circuit. His big break came in 1960 when he signed with Federal Records, thanks to pianist and producer Sonny Thompson. His debut single, "Have You Ever Loved a Woman," and the instrumental "Hide Away" launched him to national prominence.

Known as the "Texas Cannonball" for his commanding stage presence and fiery guitar work, King’s career spanned over two decades, influencing countless musicians, from Jerry Garcia to Peter Green. His style, blending Texas and Chicago blues with a contemporary edge, was characterized by his use of a plastic thumb pick and a metal index-finger pick on guitars like the Gibson Les Paul and later semi-hollow models like the ES-335. Tragically, King passed away on December 28, 1976, at age 42, but his legacy endures through his music and the admiration of fans worldwide. While King’s official website is no longer active, fans can explore his music and legacy through platforms like the Freddie King Official Facebook page. His influence is also celebrated on X, where posts from users like @3PickupMusicMan highlight his funky blues contributions.

For those looking to connect with fellow Zoo Freaks and Freddie King enthusiasts, fan-driven spaces offer vibrant communities. The Freddie King Fans Facebook group is a hub for fans to share memories, rare recordings, and tributes. Additionally, the Blues Sessions website provides a detailed discography and bio, making it a go-to resource for King’s admirers. While King did not maintain an Instagram account during his lifetime, fans often share vintage photos and clips on the platform under hashtags like #FreddieKing. These online spaces keep the spirit of King’s music alive, perfect for the Zoo Crew to share with their listeners as they spin "Hide Away" on THE ZOO.