I Found Somebody

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "I Found Somebody" by Glenn Frey from his debut solo album No Fun Aloud! This track, released in 1982, is a smooth, soulful gem co-written with Frey’s longtime collaborator Jack Tempchin, who also penned the Eagles classic "Peaceful Easy Feeling." The song captures Frey’s shift from the Eagles’ country-rock vibe to a pop-soul sound rooted in his Detroit upbringing. Fun fact: Jim Horn, a legendary saxophonist who’s played with everyone from The Beatles to Toto, lays down a slick sax solo that gives the track its infectious groove. In a 2016 review, critic Kit O’Toole noted that "I Found Somebody" helped Frey establish his solo identity, blending rock, pop, and soul in a way that felt fresh yet familiar. On X, a 2023 post from user @rocco_tp raved about the song’s “West Coast sound,” calling it a calming classic that still resonates with fans worldwide.

Another cool tidbit comes from Frey’s own liner notes in No Fun Aloud, where he described the album’s recording as a labor of love, with a playful nod to the “fun” he had crafting these tracks. The song’s lyrics, about rediscovering love after heartbreak, struck a chord with listeners, peaking at #31 on the Billboard Hot 100. In a 1992 interview with Bob Costas, Frey reflected on his solo career, saying he wanted to explore sounds that were “true to my roots” while stepping out of the Eagles’ shadow. Fans on the Glenn Frey Fans Facebook group often share stories of how "I Found Somebody" was their go-to song for road trips or romantic moments, with one member recalling how they played it on repeat during a cross-country drive in the ‘80s. The track’s warm, laid-back vibe makes it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s hippie spirit!

Now, let’s dive into how Glenn Frey got his start. Born on November 6, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Frey grew up in a music-rich environment, soaking up Motown, rock, and soul. As a teenager, he played guitar in local bands, including The Subterraneans, and honed his skills at Oakland Community College. In 1966, he joined The Four of Us, a band led by Gary Burrows, where he learned to sing harmonies. A year later, Frey formed The Mushrooms, scoring a regional hit with “Such a Lovely Child,” produced by none other than Bob Seger. Seger’s mentorship was pivotal, helping Frey land a contract with Hideout Records. In a 2016 Rolling Stone oral history, Seger recalled meeting a “hippie-ied out” Frey at 17, bonding over Jimi Hendrix records. Frey’s mom once caught them smoking pot, which put a temporary halt to his plans to join Seger’s band!

In the late ‘60s, Frey moved to California, chasing music and adventure. There, he met J.D. Souther and Jackson Browne, who introduced him to the budding L.A. music scene. In 1970, Frey joined Linda Ronstadt’s backup band, where he met drummer Don Henley. The two hit it off, and by 1971, they co-founded the Eagles, blending country, rock, and folk into a sound that defined an era. Frey’s lead vocals on hits like “Take It Easy” and “Lyin’ Eyes” made him a star, but after the Eagles’ 1980 breakup, he launched his solo career with No Fun Aloud, proving he could shine on his own. His ability to evolve musically kept him relevant until his passing in 2016.

For more on Glenn Frey, check out his official Eagles website, though it focuses on the band. His legacy lives on through social media, including the Glenn Frey Official Facebook page, which shares updates and tributes, and the Glenn Frey Instagram, featuring vintage photos and fan memories. On X, the @glennfreyonline account posts regular updates about his music and influence. Fans can connect on the Glenn Frey Fans Facebook group, a vibrant community sharing stories, rare photos, and concert memories. Another great fan resource is GlennFreyOnline.com, a detailed site with discographies, interviews, and news. Zoo Freaks, keep the love for Frey’s music alive, and let’s keep spinning those records!