Ready or Not

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Ready or Not" by Lou Gramm, a track from his 1987 solo debut album Ready or Not, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its classic rock energy. This song, the title track of the album, was the second single released, reaching number 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 7 on the Mainstream Rock charts. While it didn’t achieve the massive success of the album’s lead single, "Midnight Blue," which hit number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Mainstream Rock chart, "Ready or Not" showcased Gramm’s signature powerful vocals and knack for catchy rock hooks. An interesting piece of trivia comes from the album’s production: it was recorded in 1986 at Bear Tracks Recording in Suffern, New York, and The Hit Factory in New York City, with Gramm teaming up with producer Pat Moran, known for his engineering work with artists like Rush and Robert Plant. The song, like most of the album, was co-written with Bruce Turgon, a former bandmate from Gramm’s pre-Foreigner days in Black Sheep, highlighting a creative partnership that shaped the album’s sound.

Another tidbit about "Ready or Not" emerges from fan discussions and reviews, particularly on platforms like Discogs, where collectors note the album’s vinyl and CD releases, including a full silver CD edition with an 8-page booklet containing lyrics and credits. Fans on Steve Hoffman Music Forums have praised the album for its harder rock edge, with "Ready or Not" standing out as part of a trio of aggressive tracks that reflect Gramm’s desire to stick to a rock-oriented sound, a direction he favored during tensions with Foreigner’s Mick Jones over the band’s softer, ballad-heavy shift. Posts on X from accounts like @OldSchool80s also mark the historical significance of the album’s era, noting that "Midnight Blue" was released as the first single on January 31, 1987, setting the stage for the album’s rollout, with "Ready or Not" following to keep the momentum going.

Lou Gramm’s journey to rock stardom began in Rochester, New York, where he was born Louis Andrew Grammatico on May 2, 1950. His musical roots took hold early, influenced by the vibrant rock and roll scene of the 1960s. Gramm started performing in local bands as a teenager, honing his vocal skills and stage presence. In the early 1970s, he joined the band Black Sheep as lead singer, where he first worked with bassist Bruce Turgon, who would later co-write much of Ready or Not. Black Sheep released a couple of albums and gained a regional following, but it wasn’t until Gramm was discovered by Mick Jones that his career skyrocketed. Jones, forming a new band, invited Gramm to audition, and in 1977, Gramm became the frontman of Foreigner. The band’s self-titled debut album, featuring hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice," launched them into global fame, with Gramm’s soaring vocals becoming a defining element of Foreigner’s sound.

Gramm’s solo career kicked off with Ready or Not in 1987, a move prompted by creative differences with Jones and a desire to explore his own musical vision. His official website, lougrammofficial.com, offers fans a hub for tour dates, merchandise, and updates on his ongoing performances, while his Facebook page keeps followers engaged with posts about live shows and career milestones. On Instagram, Gramm shares throwback photos and concert clips, connecting with fans through nostalgic moments and current activities. His X account is less active but still serves as a touchpoint for fans. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online, including the Lou Gramm Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share memories, photos, and news about Gramm’s solo work and Foreigner legacy. Another fan-driven space is the Lou Gramm Fans page, which celebrates his music and career with regular updates and fan interactions.