Squonk

The song "Squonk" from Genesis' album A Trick of the Tail holds a pivotal place in the band’s history, marking a turning point after the departure of frontman Peter Gabriel in 1975. Inspired by a Pennsylvanian legend about a creature that dissolves into tears when captured, the track was written by Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford. Its thunderous, Led Zeppelin-esque sound, particularly influenced by the song "Kashmir," was a deliberate attempt to create a powerful, drum-heavy anthem. Phil Collins, then the band’s drummer, described "Squonk" as his "John Bonham moment," channeling the iconic Led Zeppelin drummer’s style. The song’s creation came during a time when Genesis was reeling from Gabriel’s exit, and the band was determined to prove they could continue without him. They initially auditioned over 400 vocalists, but none fit the bill. It was Collins’ impromptu performance of "Squonk" in the studio that convinced the band he should take over as lead vocalist, a decision that shaped Genesis’ future.

Another fascinating tidbit about "Squonk" is its role in Genesis’ live performances. The track became a fan favorite and a staple of their concerts from 1976 to 1980, often praised for its intense energy. Fans on platforms like Reddit have noted the song’s dynamic shift from the gentle "Entangled" to the explosive opening of "Squonk" on the album, creating a dramatic contrast that heightened its impact. Tony Banks shared in an interview that the band was inspired by hearing "Kashmir" on the radio while driving in Germany, unaware at first it was Led Zeppelin. They aimed to capture that massive drum sound, though Banks admitted they didn’t quite achieve it in the studio—but the live versions, especially on the 1977 live album Seconds Out, came closer to their vision. The song’s lyrics, steeped in the myth of the elusive Squonk, also resonated with fans, with one commenting on Last.fm about the emotional weight of the creature’s tragic fate, dissolving into "a pool of tears."

Genesis began in 1967 in Godalming, Surrey, when schoolmates Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, and Anthony Phillips formed the band while attending Charterhouse School. Initially experimenting with pop and psychedelic sounds, they recorded their first album, From Genesis to Revelation, in 1969, which was a commercial flop. Undeterred, the band evolved into a progressive rock outfit, with Phil Collins joining as drummer in 1970 after responding to an ad in Melody Maker. Steve Hackett completed the classic lineup in 1971. Their early years were marked by Gabriel’s theatrical performances and complex compositions, gaining a cult following through albums like Foxtrot (1972) and Selling England by the Pound (1973). After Gabriel’s departure in 1975, Collins’ transition to frontman on A Trick of the Tail propelled Genesis to new heights, blending progressive rock with more accessible pop elements in the 1980s, cementing their status as one of the best-selling bands with over 150 million albums sold worldwide.

Fans of Genesis can connect with the band through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates, tour announcements, and archival content. The band’s enduring legacy is also celebrated on fan-driven platforms. The Genesis News website offers detailed discographies, news, and forums for discussion, while the Turn It On Again: A Genesis Forum provides a space for fans to share stories, organize meetups, and showcase creative tributes. On Facebook, groups like Genesis Fans bring together "Zoo Freaks" and other enthusiasts to discuss everything from "Squonk" to the band’s latest projects, keeping the spirit of Genesis alive.