Come Dancing

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Come Dancing" from Jeff Beck's iconic 1976 album Wired! This funky, jazz-infused track, composed by Narada Michael Walden, is a standout on the album, blending progressive rock with a free-form blues guitar solo and a sensational Minimoog synth passage. Critics have praised its "strut and swagger," with one review describing it as a progressive blend of rock, jazz, and funk, topped by a spectacular distorted guitar solo. Prog Archives notes its Fender Rhodes piano adding a jazzy vibe, making it a perfect dancefloor filler for those late-night radio vibes. Interestingly, some fans on Discogs call it one of the "rough versions" of Beck’s classics, highlighting its raw, futuristic energy that felt ahead of its time in 1976.

Another cool tidbit about "Come Dancing" comes from its recording process. Wired was produced by George Martin, the legendary Beatles producer, and recorded across studios in London, Hollywood, and Colorado. However, engineer Peter Henderson later reflected on the album’s sound, saying it felt like it was “recorded direct to cassette,” giving tracks like "Come Dancing" a gritty, unpolished edge that fans either love or debate. Wikipedia also mentions that Narada Michael Walden, who played drums on the track, contributed to its dynamic fusion vibe, drawing from his experience with the Mahavishnu Orchestra. For Zoo Freaks digging the song’s funky bass and fiery guitar, it’s a testament to Beck’s ability to merge genres seamlessly.

Jeff Beck, born Geoffrey Arnold Beck on June 24, 1944, in Wallington, Surrey, kicked off his musical journey in the early 1960s, inspired by guitarists like Les Paul, Chet Atkins, and Django Reinhardt. As a teen, he built his own guitar, showcasing his DIY spirit. His big break came in 1965 when he joined The Yardbirds, replacing Eric Clapton. Beck’s experimental edge, using feedback and distortion, helped push the band toward psychedelic rock, with hits like “Shapes of Things.” After leaving The Yardbirds in 1966, he formed the Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, blending blues, rock, and soul. Their albums, Truth (1968) and Beck-Ola (1969), laid the groundwork for heavy rock, though Beck’s restless creativity led him to disband the group. By 1975, he shifted to instrumental jazz fusion with Blow by Blow and Wired, cementing his reputation as a “guitarist’s guitarist.” Wikipedia highlights his influence, noting Rolling Stone ranked him No. 5 among the greatest guitarists in 2015.

Sadly, Jeff Beck passed away on January 10, 2023, but his legacy lives on through his groundbreaking music. You can explore more about him on his official website, JeffBeck.com, though it’s more of a tribute site now. His official social media accounts include Facebook, Instagram, and X, where fans still share memories and clips, like a 2016 post from @jeffbeckmusic celebrating Wired’s tracks. For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with other fans, check out the Jeff Beck Fans Facebook group, a vibrant community sharing rare photos and concert stories. Another great spot is JeffBeck.rocks, a fan site packed with discography details and tributes. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let "Come Dancing" take you on a funky, fusion-filled ride!