Higher Places (Live 2004)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Higher Places (Live 2004)" by Glenn Hughes from the album Soulfully Live in the City of Angels, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing to this soulful rock anthem. This track, recorded on January 11, 2004, at Sound Image Studio in Hollywood, captures Hughes’ powerful vocals and emotional depth. One piece of trivia about the song comes from its performance context: the intimate live show was attended by a select group of friends and fans, creating a cozy, almost familial atmosphere with candles and rugs on the floor, as noted in a review on laut.de. The song itself, originally from Hughes’ 2003 album Songs in the Key of Rock, has lyrics that reflect personal growth and resilience, with lines like “I can see the future, it’s been calling me,” which Hughes has said in interviews stem from his journey overcoming addiction and finding spiritual clarity.

Another interesting tidbit about "Higher Places (Live 2004)" is its musical backing. The performance features Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, whose dynamic energy elevated the show, as highlighted in a review on Amazon. Hughes, in a 2004 interview included as bonus material on the DVD, emphasized the significance of this gig as only his second official live solo show, following the iconic Deep Purple California Jam in 1974. He remarked, “People in the Purple circles have always spoken how great the Cal Jam gig was… but that was over 30 years ago! And I’m still here and making music.” This quote underscores the song’s role as a testament to his enduring career. On social media, Hughes has shared reflective posts about his music, like a 2011 tweet from his official X account: “My music defines me... I write daily, it is Soul Soothing... I feel connected,” which resonates with the themes of "Higher Places."

Glenn Hughes, known as the “Voice of Rock,” began his musical journey in Cannock, Staffordshire, England, born on August 21, 1951. His career kicked off in the 1960s as a bassist and vocalist for the band Finders Keepers, a local act that gave him early exposure to performing. By the late 1960s, he joined the funk rock band Trapeze, where he honed his distinctive vocal style and bass playing, contributing to their first three albums between 1970 and 1972. His big break came in 1973 when he was recruited by Deep Purple for their Mk. III and IV lineups, lending his voice and bass to classics like Burn and Stormbringer. This period catapulted him to international fame, though his struggles with addiction in the 1970s and 1980s challenged his career, as detailed in his 2011 autobiography, Deep Purple and Beyond. Hughes’ resilience led to a prolific solo career, collaborations with artists like Tony Iommi, and fronting supergroups like Black Country Communion.

Fans can connect with Glenn Hughes through his vibrant online presence. His official website, glennhughes.com, offers merchandise, tour dates, and a detailed discography. On social media, he engages with fans via his Facebook page, where he shares tour updates and personal reflections, and his Instagram account, featuring behind-the-scenes photos and performance clips. His X account is active with thoughts on music and life, often interacting directly with fans. For dedicated Zoo Freaks, fan communities thrive online, including the Glenn Hughes Fan Forum on Facebook, where enthusiasts discuss his music, share rare recordings, and organize meetups for shows. These platforms keep the spirit of Hughes’ music alive, much like the energy of "Higher Places" resonating through THE ZOO’s airwaves.