Wishing Well

The Zoo Crew is spinning the iconic track Wishing Well by Free from their 1973 album Heartbreaker, a song that’s got the Zoo Freaks vibing with its blues-rock soul. This track, one of Free’s most defining hits, reached No. 7 on the UK charts and is steeped in fascinating trivia. Drummer Simon Kirke confirmed that the unmistakable lead guitar on Wishing Well was played by Paul Kossoff, despite him being uncredited on the single due to his struggles with addiction at the time. Kossoff’s emotive playing shines through, making it a standout moment on the album, even as he battled personal demons. The song’s raw energy was born out of a turbulent period for the band, with bassist Andy Fraser leaving and new members Tetsu Yamauchi and John “Rabbit” Bundrick joining to fill the gaps. It’s a testament to Free’s resilience that they crafted such a powerful anthem amidst internal chaos.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the album’s production. Island Records boss Chris Blackwell wasn’t satisfied with Free’s initial mix of Heartbreaker, so he brought in engineer Andy Johns to polish it up, ensuring Wishing Well had that crisp, punchy sound we hear today. The song’s lyrics, credited to the entire band but largely penned by Paul Rodgers, carry a haunting weight, with lines like “throw down your gun, you might shoot yourself” often interpreted as a nod to Kossoff’s struggles. Wishing Well has also lived on through covers by artists like Maggie Bell, Gary Moore, and even Styx, showing its enduring appeal across genres. Fans on platforms like the Free Fan Group on Facebook often share stories of how this song’s gritty optimism hit them during tough times, making it a staple in Free’s legacy.

Free’s journey to creating Wishing Well started in the late 1960s in London, where the band formed in 1968. Paul Rodgers, a powerhouse vocalist, linked up with guitarist Paul Kossoff, bassist Andy Fraser, and drummer Simon Kirke, all teenagers with a shared love for blues and rock. Kossoff, inspired by blues legends, brought a soulful edge to their sound, while Fraser’s songwriting chops and Rodgers’ commanding voice gave Free a unique identity. They were barely out of their teens when they started gigging in pubs and clubs, quickly catching the ear of Island Records. Their debut album, Tons of Sobs, dropped in 1969, blending raw blues with rock energy. It was their 1970 hit All Right Now that catapulted them to fame, cementing their place in the British rock scene. Despite their youth, Free’s tight musicianship and mature sound made them stand out, though internal tensions and Kossoff’s health issues would later challenge their run.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Free’s world, the band’s official website is a great starting point for news and history. You can also follow their legacy on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and X, where updates and fan interactions keep the spirit alive. The Free Fan Group on Facebook is a lively spot for connecting with other fans, sharing memories, and discussing tracks like Wishing Well. Another fan hub, the Free Fan Club linked through Paul Rodgers’ site, offers exclusive content for diehards. Free may have disbanded in 1973, but their music, especially Wishing Well, continues to resonate with fans old and new, keeping the Zoo Crew’s airwaves electric.