Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Crossfire" by the Henry Paul Band from their killer debut album Grey Ghost! This track is a Southern rock gem with a slick AOR vibe, blending fiery guitar riffs and tight harmonies that hit like a lightning bolt. Fans have long praised "Crossfire" for its catchy hooks and energetic vibe, with one listener on Rate Your Music noting its "nice AOR feel" that sets it apart from the band’s heavier Southern rock roots. The song’s upbeat tempo and polished production make it a standout, often compared to what the Doobie Brothers or The Eagles might’ve cooked up if they’d leaned harder into Southern grit. It’s no wonder reviewers on Amazon call it one of the album=
Here’s a cool tidbit: "Crossfire" captures the raw energy of the Henry Paul Band’s live performances, which were legendary in the late ‘70s. According to a fan comment on Songfacts, the band played tons of venues in upstate New York back in the day, leaving crowds buzzing with their guitar-driven sound. Another fan on Amazon shared how they wore out their vinyl copy of Grey Ghost, scratching it up from endless spins, only to replace it with a cassette they played just as much. That’s the kind of love "Crossfire" inspires—pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll passion that still holds up decades later. The Zoo Crew can’t get enough of that vibe, and we know you Zoo Freaks are feeling it too!
Let’s talk about how Henry Paul got his start. Born August 25, 1949, in Kingston, New York, Henry grew up on a farm in Hurley before moving to Temple Terrace, Florida, after his parents’ divorce. Music was in his blood early on. At 17, he was already playing gigs at high school folk festivals and Tampa’s 18th String Coffee House. By 1969, inspired by his hero Bob Dylan, he headed to Greenwich Village, New York, busking on the streets and cutting demos for Epic Records. In 1972, he joined The Outlaws, a Southern rock outfit formed in 1967, and helped them score a gold debut album with hits like "Green Grass and High Tides." After leaving The Outlaws in 1977, Henry formed the Henry Paul Band, dropping Grey Ghost in 1979. Later, he returned to The Outlaws and co-founded the country band BlackHawk in 1991, proving he’s a restless creative force.
For more on the Henry Paul Band, check out their official website for updates and tour info. You can also follow Henry on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and throwback posts. Over on X, Henry shares thoughts on music and life, connecting directly with fans. For fan communities, join the Henry Paul Band Fan Club on Facebook to swap stories and rare finds with other Zoo Freaks. There’s also a fan site, Southern Rock Bands, packed with band history and discography details. So crank up "Crossfire," hit up these links, and keep rockin’ with the Zoo Crew!
Our passionate volunteer Zoo Crew, veteran rock jocks and music die-hards, is dedicated to restoring radio's greatness. We will make it great again with your help. Join the radio revolution.