It Hurts

The Zoo Crew is spinning "It Hurts" by Greg Lake from his 1981 self-titled debut solo album, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this soulful track. This song, a Greg Lake original, stands out as a return to his romantic balladeer roots after the album’s opening hard rock tracks. According to a review on Progrography, "It Hurts" starts gently but builds to a powerful, emotional climax, showcasing Lake’s ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with a dynamic arrangement. The song was recorded with guitarist Gary Moore, whose tasteful accompaniment elevated the track’s simple yet poignant composition. Lake’s collaboration with Moore on this album was a deliberate shift from the progressive rock of his past, as he aimed to explore a more straightforward, guitar-driven sound.

In a 1997 interview, Lake reflected on his solo work, including tracks like "It Hurts," noting that his debut album was pressured by record company expectations to produce radio-friendly hits, which diluted some of the passion found in his earlier work with Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP). Despite this, "It Hurts" remains a fan favorite for its sincerity and Lake’s soaring vocals, as highlighted in The Progressive Aspect’s review of the Magical box set. The track’s inclusion in the 2020 anthology collection underscores its enduring appeal. Interestingly, the album’s liner notes, penned by Lake himself, reveal that he chose songs like "It Hurts" for their personal significance, aiming to connect with listeners on an emotional level, aunionville.com

Greg Lake’s journey in music began in Dorset, England, where he was born on November 10, 1947. He started playing guitar at age 12, taking lessons from Don Strike, who also taught future King Crimson bandmate Robert Fripp. Lake wrote his first song, the iconic "Lucky Man," at the same age, showing early promise as a songwriter. By 17, he became a full-time musician, playing in local rock bands. His big break came when Fripp invited him to join King Crimson as lead singer and bassist. Their 1969 debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King, became a progressive rock landmark, cementing Lake’s reputation. He later co-founded ELP, achieving global success in the 1970s with hits like "Lucky Man" and "From the Beginning."

Fans can explore more about Greg Lake through his official website at www.greglake.com, though social media accounts for Lake are no longer active following his passing in 2016. His legacy lives on through fan communities, such as the Greg Lake Official Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memories and discuss his music. Another valuable resource is Ladies of the Lake, a fan site offering a comprehensive archive of interviews, reviews, and trivia about Lake and ELP. These platforms keep the Zoo Freaks connected to Lake’s extraordinary musical legacy.