If You Don’t Start Drinking

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious blues-rock anthem "If You Don’t Start Drinking (I’m Gonna Leave)" by George Thorogood and The Destroyers, from their 1991 album Boogie People, for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This sardonic, upbeat track, known for its humor and robust groove, became a concert staple despite its parent album selling modestly at around 300,000 copies. The song’s tongue-in-cheek ultimatum, where Thorogood threatens to leave if his partner doesn’t join him in drinking, captures his signature blend of wit and gritty guitar riffs. In a 2011 Guitar World interview, Thorogood hinted at the song’s playful origins, noting his love for crafting narratives that energize audiences, a trait evident in its live performances where fans chant along to the infectious chorus.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s cultural footprint. While not a chart-topping single, "If You Don’t Start Drinking" resonated with Thorogood’s loyal fanbase, often cited on platforms like Reddit as a quintessential example of his rebellious, blues-infused style. Fans on Facebook have shared stories of hearing it at rowdy live shows, with one recalling a 1990s concert where Thorogood extended the song’s outro, riffing with the crowd’s energy. The track’s raw, unpolished vibe reflects Thorogood’s commitment to delivering high-octane performances, a sentiment echoed in a quote from his official site: “Our heart and soul have been in this from day one, and I think audiences have always respected that.”

George Thorogood’s journey to becoming a blues-rock icon began in Wilmington, Delaware, where he was born on February 24, 1950. Initially a semi-pro baseball player, Thorogood’s life pivoted after attending a John P. Hammond concert in 1970, inspiring him to pursue music. He started as a solo acoustic performer, channeling influences like Robert Johnson and Elmore James. By 1973, he formed The Destroyers with high school friend and drummer Jeff Simon, initially called The Delaware Destroyers, playing gigs at local venues like the Rathskeller bar at the University of Delaware. Their raw, Chicago blues-infused rock sound took shape in Boston’s blues clubs, leading to a 1974 demo that caught the attention of Rounder Records. Their breakthrough came with the 1977 album George Thorogood and The Destroyers, cementing their place in rock radio with hits like "Move It On Over."

Thorogood’s career, now spanning over 50 years, has been marked by his animated stage presence and raucous slide guitar, earning him the nickname “Lonesome George.” His band’s longevity, as he humorously noted in a 2023 interview on his website, stems from “loyalty and sanity,” though he quipped about flunking chemistry in school. With over 15 million records sold and a 2024 50th-anniversary tour, Thorogood remains a beloved figure, as seen in fan communities like the George Thorogood and The Destroyers Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memorabilia and concert stories. Fans also connect on Instagram, where Thorogood posts tour updates and celebrates milestones like the Boogie People Fan of the Month.

For more on George Thorogood and The Destroyers, visit their official website for tour dates and news. Follow them on Facebook (588,554 likes), Instagram, and X for the latest updates. Engage with fellow fans in the George Thorogood and The Destroyers Fan Group or check out fan-driven content on sites like Last.fm, where devotees chronicle the band’s discography and live legacy.