Only Time Will Tell (Live 1996)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the groovy vibes of "Only Time Will Tell (Live 1996)" by John Wetton, a track that resonates with the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This song, originally from Asia's 1982 debut album, was co-written by Wetton and Geoff Downes, capturing the band's signature blend of progressive rock and radio-friendly hooks. In a 2014 interview with Songfacts, Wetton shared that the song's success was amplified by MTV's heavy rotation of its video, perfectly timed with the band's polished image and Mike Stone's crisp production. He noted the lyric "incidents arose from circumstance" as a personal favorite, reflecting the song's emotional depth. The live 1996 version, likely from Wetton's solo performances, showcases his powerful baritone and dexterous bass, a testament to his ability to reinterpret Asia classics with raw energy.

Another tidbit comes from a 2008 interview with Outsider Rock, where Wetton discussed the enduring appeal of Asia's early hits like "Only Time Will Tell." He mentioned how the song's bridge, a hallmark of his songwriting with Downes, uses a chord modulation to create a dynamic shift, bringing listeners back to the chorus with renewed intensity. Wetton took pride in this craftsmanship, emphasizing the professional satisfaction of structuring songs that feel both adventurous and familiar. A post on X from @originalasia in 2017 highlighted the song's legacy, sharing a link to the 1982 studio version and celebrating its place in the band's catalog. Fans on Facebook groups like John Wetton Fan Group often cite live renditions like the 1996 performance for their emotional weight, with Wetton's voice carrying the scars and triumphs of his storied career.

John Wetton's journey began in Willington, Derbyshire, on June 12, 1949, before his family moved to Bournemouth, Dorset. His early musical spark came from his brother Robert, a classical organist, who had young John play bass parts on the piano during organ practice, as their home organ lacked a pedalboard. Wetton recalled in a Wikipedia entry how these sessions, particularly with Bach's intricate bass lines, shaped his love for the instrument. By his teens, he was playing in local bands like The Corvettes, which evolved into the Palmer-James Group, as noted in a 2023 blog post on Peter Viney's Blog. His professional break came in 1971 when he joined Family, laying the foundation for his progressive rock legacy.

Wetton's career skyrocketed when Dorset native Robert Fripp invited him to join King Crimson in 1972. As the bassist and lead vocalist, Wetton, alongside drummer Bill Bruford and violinist David Cross, helped craft a heavier, avant-rock sound. Fripp once likened playing with Wetton and Bruford to facing a "flying brick wall," a nod to Wetton's thunderous bass style, enhanced by effects pedals and a Leslie speaker cabinet. After King Crimson disbanded in 1974, Wetton lent his talents to Roxy Music, Uriah Heep, and Wishbone Ash, before co-founding Asia in 1981. The supergroup's debut album, featuring "Only Time Will Tell," sold 10 million copies worldwide, cementing Wetton's status as a rock icon.

Fans can dive deeper into Wetton's world through his official website, which offers updates on his legacy, including the 2023 box set An Extraordinary Life. His Facebook page shares tributes and archival content, while X at @John_Wetton posts memories from his career. Though Wetton passed in 2017, his Instagram continues to celebrate his music with photos and clips. Devoted fans connect on John Wetton Fan Group and Asia Fans on Facebook, sharing stories and rare recordings. For more on his Asia days, originalasia.com and Asia's Facebook are treasure troves of band history, keeping the Zoo Freaks' vibes alive.