Feels Like a Good Thing

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Feels Like a Good Thing" by the Michael Schenker Group, a track from their 1980 debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this hard rock gem. This song, penned by Michael Schenker and vocalist Gary Barden, is often seen as a lighter, upbeat rocker compared to the album’s heavier anthems like "Armed and Ready." However, it’s had its share of critique—some fans and reviewers, like those on Louder, have called it a bit "rock-by-numbers" or even "cheesy," suggesting it could’ve been left off the record. Despite this, its catchy vibe and Schenker’s signature guitar work make it a fun spin for the airwaves. Interestingly, the song’s bass tabs are popular among fans, with sites like Acousterr offering detailed tablature for aspiring musicians to jam along.

Not much direct commentary from Schenker himself exists about "Feels Like a Good Thing" in interviews, but his passion for pure, unfiltered creativity shines through in discussions about his work. In a Dragon Productions feature, Schenker emphasized his love for playing from the heart, focusing on the guitar as the ultimate tool for expression. This ethos likely influenced the song’s straightforward, feel-good energy. On social media, fans on platforms like X celebrate the Michael Schenker Group’s melodic and lyrical guitar style, with posts highlighting the band’s history and Schenker’s time with UFO and Scorpions, though specific mentions of this track are rare. The song’s lyrics, available on Mojim, reflect a playful, romantic tone, adding to its accessible charm for Zoo Freaks tuning in.

Michael Schenker, the mastermind behind the Michael Schenker Group, began his musical journey at a young age in Germany. Born on January 10, 1955, he started playing guitar at nine, inspired by his brother Rudolf Schenker’s Gibson Flying V, as noted on Wikipedia. Influenced by legends like Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, and Eric Clapton, Schenker’s early talent landed him in Scorpions, the band co-founded by Rudolf, where he played as a teenager. His work on albums like Lonesome Crow showcased his raw skill. In the mid-1970s, he joined UFO, elevating their sound with his melodic lead guitar on classics like Strangers in the Night. After leaving UFO in 1978 due to creative differences, he briefly rejoined Scorpions for Lovedrive before forming the Michael Schenker Group in London in 1979, seeking a platform for his own vision. His iconic half-black, half-white Gibson Flying V became a symbol of his influential style, cementing his status as a proto-metal guitar hero.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out the official Michael Schenker website for tour dates, news, and merch. Connect with the community on Facebook and Instagram, where Schenker shares updates about his projects, like the upcoming “My Years With UFO” tour. On X, fans can catch posts about his latest releases and performances, including a sold-out show in Mannheim being filmed. For fan-driven content, Michael Schenker Online offers a treasure trove of news, discography, and tour info. Join discussions with fellow fans in groups like the MSG and UFO Fans Facebook group, where enthusiasts share memories and celebrate Schenker’s legacy. Keep rocking, Zoo Freaks!