I’m a Believer

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track "I’m a Believer" by Giant, from their 1989 album Last of the Runaways, and the Zoo Freaks are surely grooving to its upbeat vibe. This song, a high-energy rocker with a searing guitar intro, stands out as one of Giant’s minor hits, capturing the essence of late '80s melodic rock. According to a review on Limelight Magazine, the track’s fast-paced tempo and catchy hooks make it a highlight of the album, far surpassing the band’s slower ballads like “It Takes Two.” The lyrics, as shared on Lyrics.com, speak of unwavering devotion with lines like “You know that I’m a believer, in you an’ me,” blending a message of love with a rebellious edge that resonates with the Zoo Crew’s free-spirited ethos.

One piece of trivia about "I’m a Believer" is its role in showcasing Giant’s knack for crafting radio-friendly rock anthems during the hair metal era. While it didn’t achieve the chart success of their ballad “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” the song’s driving rhythm and Dann Huff’s electrifying guitar work earned it a cult following among AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) fans. The Giant Facebook page commemorated the 30th anniversary of Last of the Runaways in 2019, sparking fan discussions about tracks like “I’m a Believer” and its enduring appeal. Though specific interviews about the song are scarce, Dann Huff’s later reflections on his career, as noted in music blogs, highlight his focus on creating music with emotional impact, which shines through in the song’s passionate delivery.

Giant was formed in 1987 by brothers Dann and David Huff, who brought their musical roots from the Christian rock band White Heart to the secular rock scene. As detailed on Wikipedia, the band’s original lineup included Dann on lead vocals and guitar, David on drums, Alan Pasqua on keyboards, and Mike Brignardello on bass. Their early days were marked by a shared vision of blending melodic rock with technical prowess, influenced by bands like Journey and Foreigner. Dann, already a respected session guitarist, leveraged his industry connections to secure a deal with A&M Records, leading to the release of Last of the Runaways. The band’s formation was a natural evolution of the Huffs’ musical journey, transitioning from spiritual themes to mainstream rock while retaining a polished, heartfelt sound.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Giant’s world, the band’s official presence is somewhat limited but still active. Their Facebook page serves as a hub for updates and fan interactions, while their music and legacy are discussed on fan-driven platforms like the Giant (Rock Band) Fan Group on Facebook. Unfortunately, Giant does not maintain an official website or active Instagram or X accounts, reflecting their lower profile after disbanding in the early 1990s and reforming sporadically. Fans can also explore sites like MelodicRock.com, a fan website dedicated to AOR and melodic rock, which frequently features Giant’s discography and news. These platforms keep the spirit of Giant alive, much like the Zoo Crew keeps the airwaves buzzing with their classic tunes.