Before the Deluge

Zoo Freaks, your hippie DJs at THE ZOO are spinning the timeless "Before the Deluge" from Jackson Browne’s 1974 masterpiece Late for the Sky, and we’ve got some juicy trivia to share! In a 2021 interview with Big Issue, Browne revealed that this song was inspired by his involvement in the early environmental movement, making it one of the first pop songs to tackle ecological concerns head-on. He described it as an "apocalyptic" reflection on humanity’s trajectory, blending personal and planetary themes. The song’s haunting fiddle outro, played by David Lindley, was meant to evoke Nero fiddling as Rome burned, a nod to societal collapse. Browne has called it a "parable" about compromised ideals, with its chorus—"Let the music keep our spirits high"—urging resilience amid chaos. Fans on platforms like Last.fm have praised its deep lyrics, with one user noting in 2021 that a live performance with guitarist Val McCallum for the Tennessee Riverkeeper benefit left them in awe of its enduring power.

Another tidbit comes from Browne himself, shared in a 2008 Mojo interview. He wrote "Before the Deluge" in the miniature chapel of his childhood home, The Abbey San Encino, where his grandfather’s pipe organ set a spiritual tone. This setting infused the song with a reflective, almost sacred quality. The track’s environmental message resonated so strongly that Joan Baez covered it on her 1979 album Honest Lullaby and performed it with Browne during her 1989 PBS concert special. Fan discussions on Facebook groups like Jackson Browne Fans often highlight how the song’s imagery—"Some of them were angry at the way the earth was abused"—feels even more relevant today, with climate concerns at the forefront.

Now, let’s rewind to how Jackson Browne got his start. Born on October 9, 1948, in Heidelberg, Germany, to an American serviceman, Browne moved to Los Angeles’ Highland Park as a young child. His musical journey kicked off in the mid-1960s when he began singing folk tunes locally. By 1966, at just 18, he joined The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, honing his songwriting chops. His big break came in New York’s Greenwich Village, where he backed Tim Buckley and accompanied Nico, contributing three songs to her 1967 album Chelsea Girl. Browne’s early compositions caught the ears of artists like The Byrds and Linda Ronstadt, who recorded his work before he even had a solo deal. In 1971, he signed with Asylum Records, and his 1972 debut album, Jackson Browne, featuring the hit "Doctor My Eyes," cemented his place in the singer-songwriter scene. His knack for blending introspective lyrics with catchy melodies set him apart, leading to classics like Late for the Sky.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with Jackson Browne through his official channels and fan communities! Check out his official website at www.jacksonbrowne.com for tour dates and news. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates straight from the man himself. Fans gather at sites like Jackson Browne Fans and the Jackson Browne Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks can geek out over his discography and share concert stories. Spin on, and let Browne’s music keep your spirits high!