Straight On (Live 1995)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Straight On (Live 1995)" by Heart, a track that electrifies Zoo Freaks with its raw energy. This song, originally released in 1978 on the album Dog & Butterfly, was captured live in 1995, showcasing Heart’s enduring stage prowess. According to Songfacts, "Straight On" was co-written by Ann Wilson, Nancy Wilson, and Sue Ennis, using gambling metaphors to depict a determined pursuit of love. Ann Wilson has described it as Heart’s first “dance song,” reflecting the late-1970s disco era with its funky bass line, a departure from their hard rock roots. The live 1995 version, performed during a period when Heart was reasserting their classic sound, amplifies the song’s intensity with Ann’s powerful vocals and Nancy’s searing guitar riffs. A fun tidbit: the band’s early name, “White Heart,” was inspired by Arthur C. Clarke’s Tales From the White Hart, a nod to their sci-fi fandom, as noted on Songfacts.

Heart’s journey began in Seattle in the 1960s, evolving from earlier projects like The Army and White Heart, as detailed on Wikipedia. Founded by Roger Fisher (guitar) and Steve Fossen (bass), the band took shape when Ann Wilson joined in 1970, followed by her sister Nancy in 1974. Ann’s commanding voice and Nancy’s versatile guitar work became the band’s backbone. Their 1976 debut album, Dreamboat Annie, propelled them to fame with hits like “Crazy on You,” driven by their unique blend of hard rock and folk influences. Despite early legal battles with their label, Mushroom Records, over suggestive marketing tactics, Heart persevered, signing with Portrait Records and cementing their legacy with multi-platinum albums. The Wilson sisters’ songwriting, often in collaboration with Sue Ennis, gave Heart a distinctive voice, navigating shifts from 1970s rock to 1980s pop while maintaining their Seattle roots.

Heart remains active, with a 2025 tour announced on their official website. Fans can connect with the band on Facebook, where they have over 2.3 million followers, Instagram for tour updates and behind-the-scenes content, and X for real-time engagement. Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper can join fan communities like the Heart Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant group sharing memories and concert experiences. Another fan hub, Heartmongers, offers a dedicated space for devotees to celebrate the band’s legacy. These platforms keep the spirit of Heart alive, much like the Zoo Crew’s vinyl-spinning vibes.