Parisenne Hotel

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track "Parisienne Hotel" by Johnny Diesel & The Injectors from their self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it! This song, released in 1989, carries the raw, bluesy rock energy the band was known for. While specific stories about "Parisienne Hotel" are scarce, a 2024 interview with frontman Mark Lizotte (aka Johnny Diesel) reveals the album’s creation was a whirlwind. Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee, with producer Terry Manning, the band captured a gritty, authentic sound that resonated with Australian audiences. Lizotte mentioned the sessions were intense, fueled by youthful ambition and a love for R&B and Southern rock, which shines through in the track’s soulful swagger. The album, including "Parisienne Hotel," helped the band win ARIA Awards for Best New Talent and Highest Selling Album in 1990, selling over 280,000 copies.

Another tidbit comes from Lizotte’s reflections on Facebook, where he’s shared how the band’s time in Memphis was a cultural shock, immersing them in the heart of American music. "Parisienne Hotel" itself, though not a chart-topping single like "Cry in Shame" or "Don’t Need Love," is a fan favorite for its moody, evocative vibe, often praised on Last.fm for its lyrical depth. Fans on the Diesel Music Fan Club Facebook group have called it a perfect road-trip anthem, with its driving rhythm and sultry guitar riffs. The song’s title might nod to a romantic or transient theme, but Lizotte has kept its inspiration cryptic, adding to its mystique.

Johnny Diesel, born Mark Denis Lizotte on May 31, 1966, in Fall River, Massachusetts, kicked off his musical journey after moving to Australia in 1971. The son of a saxophone player, Lizotte grew up steeped in his father’s vast R&B record collection, which shaped his soulful style. By 15, he was already gigging in Perth with the Innocent Bystanders, honing his guitar and vocal chops. In June 1986, he formed Johnny Diesel & The Injectors with Bernie Bremond (saxophone), John "Tatt" Dalzell (bass), Yak Sherritt (drums), and briefly George Dalstrom (guitar). The band’s name, as Lizotte explained in a Wikipedia bio, was a playful jab at Dalzell’s growing family, never meant to stick. They built a following in Perth’s pub scene, blending R&B, blues, and Southern rock, before relocating to Sydney in 1987 for bigger opportunities.

Their big break came when Jane Barnes, wife of rock legend Jimmy Barnes, recommended them. Lizotte joined Barnes’ band for the Freight Train Heart tour, and Johnny Diesel & The Injectors opened the shows. This exposure led to a deal with Chrysalis Records, and their debut album was born. After the band disbanded in 1991, Lizotte’s solo career soared with albums like Hepfidelity, earning him ARIA Awards for Best Male Artist in 1993, 1994, and 1995. His versatility—playing guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards—has kept him a staple in Australian music, with 16 solo albums and collaborations with artists like Richard Clapton.

Stay connected with Diesel’s latest gigs and releases on his official website, where you can find tour dates and merch. Follow him on Facebook for personal updates and throwback posts, or check out his Instagram for behind-the-scenes shots from tours. On X, he shares quick thoughts and interacts with fans. Join the Diesel Music Fan Club on Facebook to connect with other Zoo Freaks who can’t get enough of tracks like "Parisienne Hotel." For more fan-driven content, Rate Your Music has community reviews and rankings of the band’s discography.