Only Women Bleed

The Zoo Crew is spinning the powerful track "Only Women Bleed" by Lita Ford, featured on her compilation album The Best of Lita Ford. This song, a cover of Alice Cooper’s 1975 ballad, was originally written by Cooper and Dick Wagner to shed light on the harrowing reality of domestic abuse. Ford’s rendition, infused with her raw, emotive vocals and hard rock edge, transforms the song into a visceral rock ballad that resonates deeply with listeners. In interviews, Ford has shared her personal connection to the song’s message, emphasizing its importance in highlighting the struggles of women in abusive relationships. She noted in a Musician Wages interview that the song’s theme of domestic violence struck a chord with her, allowing her to deliver a performance that amplified its emotional weight. Her version stands out for blending hard rock intensity with the song’s poignant lyrics, creating a unique interpretation that underscores her vocal and musical versatility.

One intriguing piece of trivia about "Only Women Bleed" is the misconception surrounding its meaning. Many initially assumed the song was about menstruation, a misunderstanding that limited its radio play due to the sensitive subject matter. However, as clarified by co-writer Dick Wagner, it’s a stark commentary on the physical and emotional toll of abusive relationships. Ford’s cover, released in the early 1990s on The Best of Lita Ford, brought renewed attention to the song, with her mezzo-soprano voice adding a layer of grit and vulnerability. In a 2016 Decibel Magazine interview, Ford discussed how she gravitated toward songs with deep, personal stories, and her performance of this track reflects that commitment. The song’s enduring relevance, as Ford has pointed out, lies in its call to action against domestic violence, a cause she has championed through her music and public appearances.

Lita Ford’s journey in music began at a young age, driven by her passion for rock and roll. Born Lita Rossana Ford on September 19, 1958, in London, England, to a British father and Italian mother, she moved to Long Beach, California, as a child. Inspired by Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple, Ford started playing guitar at age 11, quickly mastering the instrument. By 16, she was recruited by producer Kim Fowley to join the all-female rock band The Runaways in 1975, where she served as lead guitarist. The Runaways, known for hits like "Cherry Bomb," broke ground as one of the first commercially successful all-girl rock bands, paving the way for future female musicians. After the band disbanded in 1979, Ford launched her solo career, signing with Mercury Records in 1982. Her debut album, Out for Blood (1983), showcased her fierce guitar skills, though it was her 1988 album Lita, featuring hits like "Kiss Me Deadly" and "Close My Eyes Forever" with Ozzy Osbourne, that propelled her to glam metal stardom.

Ford’s career is marked by her trailblazing role as a female lead guitarist in a male-dominated industry. Her time with The Runaways and her solo success established her as a heavy metal icon, earning her the title "Queen of Metal" from outlets like Metal Temple Magazine. Despite challenges, including a commercial dip in the 1990s and a hiatus to raise her family, Ford made a triumphant return with her 2012 album Living Like a Runaway, which she described as a true reflection of her rock roots. Her autobiography, Living Like a Runaway, released in 2016, details her journey, from her rebellious teenage years to her resilience in the face of personal and professional setbacks. Ford’s dedication to her craft and her fans continues to shine through her ongoing tours and collaborations with artists like Dee Snider and Glenn Hughes.

For the latest updates on Lita Ford, Zoo Freaks can visit her official website at litafordonline.com. She’s active on social media, engaging fans on Facebook, where her page has nearly 890,000 followers, Instagram, and X. Fans can also connect through dedicated fan communities, such as the Lita Ford Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memorabilia, concert experiences, and tributes to her legacy. Another fan-driven group, Lita Ford Rocks, offers a space for supporters to celebrate her music and career milestones. These platforms keep the spirit of Ford’s music alive, connecting her with both longtime fans and new listeners.