The Heat Is On (Live 1993)

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! The Zoo Crew is cranking up the vibes with "The Heat Is On (Live 1993)" by Glenn Frey from the album Glenn Frey Live. This high-energy track, originally recorded for the 1984 blockbuster Beverly Hills Cop, was penned by Harold Faltermeyer and Keith Forsey. Frey, initially hesitant to audition for a movie soundtrack, was invited to an early screening of the film by his manager, Irving Azoff. Thinking it was just a fun outing, Frey was surprised when MCA Records, his new label, asked him to sing the song. He nailed the vocals in one day and added the guitar solo and backing vocals the next, earning a cool $15,000 for his efforts. The song’s iconic saxophone riff, often mistaken for Beverly Dahlke-Smith due to her appearance in the music video, was actually played by session musician David Woodford, who also worked with Aerosmith and Chris Isaak.

The live 1993 version we’re spinning today captures Frey’s electrifying stage presence, recorded during his solo tour post-Eagles hiatus. The song’s pulsating synths and driving beat made it a perfect fit for Beverly Hills Cop’s chase scenes, mirroring the film’s intense vibe. Frey’s performance helped the single soar to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985, spending 26 weeks on the chart. The music video was groundbreaking, one of the first to blend movie clips with performance footage, boosting its popularity on MTV. Frey later shared in an interview with Tavis Smiley that he thought auditioning for movie songs wasn’t something “rock stars” did, but he went for it and was shocked when his vocal was chosen over other MCA artists. Posts on X from fans, like one from @ThatEricAlper in 2025, highlight how “The Heat Is On” remains a timeless hit, cementing Frey’s solo legacy.

Glenn Frey kicked off his musical journey in Detroit, born on November 6, 1948. Growing up in Royal Oak, Michigan, he was steeped in the city’s vibrant R&B and rock scene. Inspired by The Beatles, Frey started playing piano at five but found his true calling with the guitar. As a teen, he played in local bands like The Mushrooms and Subterraneans. His big break came when he backed Bob Seger on acoustic guitar and vocals for the 1968 single “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man”. Seger, a mentor, encouraged Frey to chase his dreams in Los Angeles, where he moved in the late 1960s. There, Frey teamed up with J.D. Souther in the duo Longbranch Pennywhistle before meeting Don Henley in 1970. The two joined Linda Ronstadt’s backup band, which led to forming the Eagles in 1971 with Bernie Leadon and Randy Meisner.

As a founding member of the Eagles, Frey co-wrote and sang lead on hits like “Take It Easy”, “Peaceful Easy Feeling”, and “Hotel California”, helping the band become rock legends. After the Eagles split in 1980, Frey launched a successful solo career with his 1982 debut album No Fun Aloud, featuring hits like “The One You Love”. His solo work, including “The Heat Is On” and “You Belong to the City”, showcased his knack for catchy, straightforward rock. Frey also dabbled in acting, appearing in Miami Vice and Wiseguy. Sadly, Frey passed away on January 18, 2016, but his music lives on, celebrated by fans worldwide.

For more on Glenn Frey, check out his official website at http://www.glennfrey.com. You can also follow updates on his legacy via the Glenn Frey Official Facebook page and the Glenn Frey Official Instagram. On X, search for posts under @GlennFreyOfficial to see fan tributes and news. Fans can connect on the Glenn Frey Fans Facebook Group, a lively community sharing memories and music. Another great spot is the fan site Glenn Frey Online, packed with discographies, photos, and rare interviews. Keep the Zoo Freak spirit alive and keep spinning those records!