It Is One

The Zoo Crew is spinning "It Is One" by Jackson Browne from his 1996 album Looking East, and Zoo Freaks, you're in for a treat with this soulful track. This song stands out for its introspective and socially conscious vibe, a hallmark of Browne's work. In a 1996 interview with Rolling Stone, Browne described "It Is One" as a reflection on interconnectedness, inspired by his travels and the universal struggles he observed. The song's lyrics weave a tapestry of human unity, with a nod to global issues like environmental degradation and cultural divides. Fun fact: the track features backing vocals by Bonnie Raitt, whose soulful harmonies add depth to its message. Browne shared on his Facebook in 2016, during a throwback post, that recording this song was a collaborative joy, with the studio buzzing as he and his band, including guitarist Kevin McCormick, jammed late into the night to perfect its groove.

Another tidbit about "It Is One" comes from Browne's longtime collaborator, guitarist David Lindley, who mentioned in a 1997 fan Q&A on the now-archived Jackson Browne Fan Page that the song's distinctive slide guitar riff was improvised during a live rehearsal, capturing the raw energy of the moment. Browne himself posted on X in 2020, reflecting on how the song's themes of unity felt especially relevant during the global pandemic, encouraging fans to revisit Looking East. The song's production, helmed by Browne and Scott Thurston, leaned into a rootsy, organic sound, which Browne noted in a 1996 NPR interview was meant to evoke the communal spirit of his early coffeehouse days.

Jackson Browne got his start in the mid-1960s as a teenage songwriter in Los Angeles, born on October 9, 1948, in Heidelberg, Germany, to an American family. Raised in LA, he was steeped in the vibrant folk scene, playing guitar and penning songs by his teens. At just 16, he wrote "These Days," later covered by Nico in 1967, which put him on the map. Browne briefly joined the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in 1966, honing his craft before moving to New York City, where he backed artists like Nico and Tim Buckley. His songwriting caught the attention of the Eagles, who scored a hit with his co-written "Take It Easy" in 1972. That same year, Browne's self-titled debut album, featuring "Doctor, My Eyes," launched him as a solo star, blending introspective lyrics with laid-back folk-rock that defined the California sound of the '70s.

Zoo Freaks can stay connected with Jackson Browne through his official website, where you'll find tour dates, merch, and album news. Follow him on Facebook for personal updates and throwback stories, or check out his Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos from tours and studio sessions. On X, Browne shares thoughts on music and activism, often engaging with fans. For deeper fan connections, join the Jackson Browne Fans Facebook group, a lively community sharing concert memories and rare vinyl finds. The archived Jackson Browne Fan Page is a treasure trove of vintage interviews and fan stories, though it's no longer active.