On the Run

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "On the Run" from Joe Lynn Turner's 1985 solo debut album, Rescue You! This track, a standout on the album, is a high-energy rocker driven by Bobby Messano’s electrifying guitar work and Chuck Burgi’s thunderous drums, giving it a punchier edge compared to the album’s more keyboard-heavy AOR vibe. In a review by Get Ready to ROCK!, the song is praised for its raw, rocky feel, with Messano’s “skillfully turned axework” and Burgi’s “thundering percussive thump” pushing the track into high gear, making it one of the few songs on the album that leans closer to Turner’s Rainbow roots. The song’s driving rhythm and gritty energy make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited playlist, capturing the rebellious spirit of the open road.

While specific anecdotes about "On the Run" are scarce in interviews, Turner has shared insights about the Rescue You album that give context to the song’s creation. In a 2023 Rolling Stone interview, he described the album as a bold step away from his Rainbow days, aiming for a more radio-friendly sound with producer Roy Thomas Baker, known for his work with Queen. Turner recounted Baker’s extravagant production style, including blowing out studio power with his cooking equipment, which added a chaotic, rock ’n’ roll vibe to the recording process. He noted that the album, including tracks like "On the Run," was crafted to stand the test of time, with strong writing and performances despite modest chart success. Fans on the Joe Lynn Turner Official Facebook page often cite the album’s raw energy, with some calling "On the Run" a hidden gem that showcases Turner’s soulful yet powerful vocal delivery.

Joe Lynn Turner, born Joseph Arthur Mark Linquito on August 2, 1951, in Hackensack, New Jersey, began his musical journey in the 1960s, influenced by classic R&B and Italian-American crooners like Frank Sinatra. Growing up, he played the accordion as a child and picked up the guitar in his teens, drawing inspiration from Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and Free. In high school, he formed the band Ezra, performing original songs and covers. By 1976, Turner joined Fandango, a pop-rock outfit that blended R&B, country, and jazz, releasing four albums and touring with acts like The Allman Brothers and Billy Joel. His big break came in 1980 when Ritchie Blackmore, legendary guitarist of Deep Purple, recruited him for Rainbow after hearing his work with Fandango. Turner’s pop-oriented vocals helped Rainbow achieve greater U.S. success with hits like "Stone Cold" and "Street of Dreams," setting the stage for his solo career with Rescue You.

Stay connected with Joe Lynn Turner through his official Facebook, where he has over 125,000 followers, and his Instagram for updates on his latest projects. Follow him on X for real-time interactions and insights. Fans can dive deeper into his world at the Joe Lynn Turner Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant community sharing memories, rare photos, and tour updates. Another great resource is Metal Storm, a fan-driven site with detailed discographies and discussions about Turner’s extensive career. Keep rocking with the Zoo Crew, and let’s keep the "On the Run" spirit alive!