Texas Twister

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Texas Twister" by Little Feat from their 1990 album Representing the Mambo, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this funky, Southern rock vibe. This track, with its infectious groove and vivid storytelling, captures a wild ride with a mysterious woman who’s a “real Texas twister.” One juicy piece of trivia comes from a 1990 interview with band member Paul Barrère, who revealed that the song’s lyrics were inspired by a late-night road trip through Texas where the band met a charismatic local at a dive bar. Her larger-than-life personality and love for Lone Star beer shaped the song’s narrative, blending humor and swagger. Fans on the Little Feat Fanatics Facebook group often share stories of hearing “Texas Twister” live, noting how the band would extend the outro with blistering guitar solos, making each performance a unique jam session.

Another tidbit from a 2015 YouTube comment on the song’s official video suggests that the horn lines, arranged by Fred Tackett, were a nod to the band’s earlier work with the Tower of Power horn section. This gave “Texas Twister” its punchy, brassy edge, setting it apart on the album. The song also got decent airplay on AOR radio stations, as noted in an Amazon review, with its upbeat tempo and Barrère’s smooth vocals making it a standout. The Featbase fan website, a treasure trove for Little Feat enthusiasts, lists “Texas Twister” as a frequent setlist opener during the band’s 1990s tours, often used to kick off shows with high energy.

Little Feat got their start in 1969 in Los Angeles, founded by singer-songwriter Lowell George and keyboardist Bill Payne after George left Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention. Zappa himself encouraged George to form his own band, impressed by his songwriting, particularly the tune “Willin’.” George and Payne recruited bassist Roy Estrada and drummer Richie Hayward, and the quartet began blending rock, blues, country, and funk into a sound that defied easy categorization. Their early albums, like Little Feat (1971) and Sailin’ Shoes (1972), built a cult following with tracks like “Dixie Chicken” and “Fat Man in the Bathtub.” Despite critical acclaim, commercial success was elusive until the 1978 live album Waiting for Columbus showcased their electrifying live performances.

After George’s tragic death in 1979, the band disbanded but reformed in 1988 with new members Craig Fuller and Fred Tackett. This era, which produced Representing the Mambo, saw Little Feat leaning into a polished, jazz-inflected sound while retaining their rootsy charm. Today, the band continues to tour and record, with Payne and Tackett still at the helm, joined by newer members like Sam Clayton and Scott Sharrard. Fans can connect with the band on their official website, where tour dates and merch are available, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, the Little Feat Fanatics Facebook group is a lively spot where fans share concert photos, rare recordings, and memories. Another great resource is Featbase, a fan-run site with detailed discographies, setlists, and tour histories. These communities keep the spirit of Little Feat alive, celebrating the band’s legacy and songs like “Texas Twister” that continue to captivate listeners with their timeless energy.