The Wrong Side of the Law

Mick Jones

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "The Wrong Side of the Law" by Mick Jones from his 1989 self-titled solo album, delighting their devoted Zoo Freaks. This track, a gritty rock anthem, showcases Jones’ signature guitar-driven sound, reflecting his knack for blending raw energy with melodic hooks. In a 2009 interview with Songfacts, Jones shared that his solo work, including tracks like this one, drew from his eclectic experiences, hinting at the song’s rebellious vibe stemming from his time navigating the music industry’s highs and lows. Though specific stories about "The Wrong Side of the Law" are scarce, Jones mentioned in a 1986 Los Angeles Times piece that his post-Clash projects, like his solo album, were about breaking free from past constraints, suggesting the song’s theme of defiance might echo his own career struggles.

Little social media buzz exists about "The Wrong Side of the Law" specifically, but fans on platforms like Mick Jones’ official Facebook often celebrate his broader discography, including his Foreigner hits and solo ventures. A 2014 Vice article about another artist named Mike Jones (no relation) briefly mentioned the challenge of standing out with a common name, a hurdle Mick Jones likely faced with his solo album amidst his Foreigner fame. Trivia-wise, the album Mick Jones was a bold departure, released on Atlantic Records when Jones was balancing Foreigner’s success with personal exploration, as noted on AllMusic. The song’s driving rhythm and lyrics about living on the edge resonate with Jones’ lifelong push against musical boundaries.

Mick Jones, born Michael Leslie Jones on December 27, 1944, in Portsmouth, England, kicked off his musical journey in the early 1960s with a passion for guitar. According to his bio on Wikipedia, he started with Nero and the Gladiators, a band that scored minor UK hits in 1961. After their split, Jones honed his craft as a session musician and songwriter in France, working with artists like Françoise Hardy and Johnny Hallyday, even crossing paths with The Beatles during their 1964 France tour. By the late 1960s, he returned to England, joining Spooky Tooth and later Wonderwheel with Gary Wright. His big break came in 1976 when he founded Foreigner, blending his rock roots with radio-friendly hits, a move that cemented his legacy, as detailed on Last.fm.

Stay connected with Mick Jones through his official Facebook and Instagram for updates on his music and Foreigner’s tours. His X account offers occasional insights into his current projects. Fans can dive deeper at Foreigner’s official site, which covers Jones’ contributions, or join discussions on Foreigner Fans Facebook group, where enthusiasts share love for his work, including his solo album. For more fan-driven content, check out Rock Hall fan pages, celebrating Jones’ 2024 induction with Foreigner.


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