Turn Me Loose

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Turn Me Loose" by Loverboy, a song that blasted onto the scene from their self-titled debut album in 1980. This anthem, with its iconic rock synthesizer opening and gritty guitar build, became a defining hit, peaking at #7 on Canada’s RPM singles chart and #6 on the Billboard Top Rock Tracks chart in the US. According to Record World, the song’s success came down to frontman Mike Reno’s raw vocal delivery, the driving guitar riffs, and top-notch production. It’s no wonder Zoo Freaks are grooving to this one—it’s a timeless call for freedom, with lyrics about breaking free from constraints and living life on your own terms.

Digging into the trivia, "Turn Me Loose" has a wild side beyond its radio dominance. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “I wanna fly,” have been interpreted in some circles as a nod to the euphoric rush of endorphins, though Loverboy didn’t explicitly intend this. Interestingly, it’s found a niche in Southern California’s alternative nightlife scene, often played at events with a bondage theme, where the idea of being “turned loose” takes on a cheeky double meaning. The song’s versatility shines through in its covers—Eminem, Limp Bizkit, and Austrian band Fahrenheit teamed up for a lyrically altered version around 1999, while Australian group Young Divas dropped a pop-infused take in 2007, hitting #15 on the ARIA Singles Chart. Guitarist Paul Dean shared in a book about MTV’s early years that the song’s music video was a milestone for the band, shot fresh off signing with Columbia Records, capturing their raw energy and cementing their place in the early MTV era.

Loverboy’s journey kicked off in Calgary, Alberta, in 1979, when vocalist Mike Reno and guitarist Paul Dean crossed paths. Reno, born Joseph Michael Rynoski in New Westminster, British Columbia, was no stranger to the music scene, having fronted bands like Moxy and Hammersmith in the 1970s. Growing up in the South Okanagan, he started writing songs as a young teen and played drums in a high school cover band called Morning Glory before moving to vocals. Paul Dean, born in Vancouver, had honed his chops with bands like Scrubbaloe Caine and Streetheart. The two met in a warehouse jam session, where Reno, invited by a mutual friend, jumped in to sing. The chemistry was instant, and with drummer Matt Frenette, keyboardist Doug Johnson, and bassist Jim Clench (later replaced by Scott Smith), Loverboy was born. Their big break came after relentless gigging and a deal with Columbia/CBS Records Canada, leading to their debut album’s massive success, selling over two million copies in the US alone.

Despite early rejections from American labels, Loverboy’s persistence paid off, and they became a staple of 1980s rock with hits like “Working for the Weekend” and “Hot Girls in Love.” Their high-energy live shows, complete with red leather pants and bandannas, won over fans across North America. Tragically, bassist Scott Smith passed away in a sailing accident in 2000, but the band soldiered on with Ken “Spider” Sinnaeve on bass, continuing to tour and thrill audiences. In 2009, they were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring impact. Mike Reno reflected in a 2018 interview with the Calgary Herald that the band’s music gave fans “hope and a respite” during tough times, a sentiment that still resonates with their loyal fanbase.

Stay connected with Loverboy through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates and behind-the-scenes moments. Fans can also join the vibrant community on the Loverboy Fan Club on Facebook, a hub for Zoo Freaks and devotees to swap stories, share concert pics, and celebrate the band’s legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, Loverboy’s music and spirit keep the party going strong.