When the Night Comes

The Zoo Crew is spinning the soulful "When the Night Comes" by Joe Cocker from his 1989 album One Night of Sin, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This track, which hit #11 on the US charts, was Cocker’s last Top 40 hit in the States and was featured in the end credits of the Tom Selleck film An Innocent Man. Written by Bryan Adams, Jim Vallance, and Diane Warren, the song also features Adams on rhythm guitar, adding a personal touch from the rock icon. The black-and-white music video is a visual treat, blending desert scenes with Cocker’s passionate performance, superimposed imagery, and backup singers, capturing the song’s emotional depth.

One fascinating piece of trivia comes from a Reddit thread where a fan shared that they bought the single in January 1990, alongside Technotronic’s "Pump Up The Jam," highlighting the song’s place in the era’s eclectic music scene. Another fan noted Adams’ signature guitar solo, praising Cocker’s ability to make the track “intense” compared to later versions. The song also topped the charts in Italy in June 1989, with its B-side, “Ruby Lee (Live At The Ritz, New York),” showcasing Cocker’s raw live energy. In a reflection by Jim Vallance, he described the collaborative joy of crafting this hit, emphasizing Cocker’s unique ability to elevate the song’s emotional weight.

Joe Cocker, born John Robert Cocker in Sheffield, England, on May 20, 1944, began his musical journey in the pubs of England. Inspired by Ray Charles and skiffle artist Lonnie Donegan, Cocker first performed at age 12 with his brother’s skiffle group. Adopting the stage name Vance Arnold—a nod to a misheard Elvis Presley character and country singer Eddie Arnold—he played Sheffield pubs with his band, the Avengers, even supporting The Rolling Stones in 1963. His big break came with a 1968 cover of The Beatles’ "With a Little Help from My Friends", which hit #1 in the UK and became a Woodstock anthem in 1969, cementing his status as a soulful, bluesy vocalist with a dynamic stage presence.

Cocker’s career spanned over five decades, with nearly 40 albums and iconic hits like "You Are So Beautiful" and "Up Where We Belong". His gritty voice and expressive movements, often mistaken for chaos but rooted in feeling the music, made him a cultural icon. Fans can explore his legacy on his official website, Facebook, and Instagram. While no official X account exists, fans connect on platforms like the Joe Cocker Fans Facebook group, sharing memories and tributes. Websites like Cocker.com offer additional resources for devotees, keeping the spirit of this legendary artist alive for Zoo Freaks everywhere.