25 or 6 to 4 (Live 2024)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the groovy vibes of 25 or 6 to 4 (Live 2024) by Mitch Malloy, a high-energy cover of the classic Chicago track from his album 25 or 6 to 4. This song, originally penned by Robert Lamm in 1969, captures the struggle of writing music in the wee hours, specifically 25 or 26 minutes to four in the morning. Malloy’s 2024 live rendition brings a fresh, raw edge, showcasing his vocal prowess and rock roots. Fun fact: the original song’s title sparked wild theories among fans, from drug references to cryptic codes, but Lamm clarified it’s simply about the time of night he was wrestling with creativity. Malloy, known for his time fronting Great White, infuses this cover with the same electrifying stage presence he brought to their shows, making it a perfect fit for the Zoo Freaks’ late-night vibe.

Digging into the song’s trivia, the original 25 or 6 to 4 by Chicago was banned in Singapore in 1970 over alleged drug allusions, a ban lifted in 1993 alongside tracks by The Beatles and Bob Dylan. Malloy’s version, while not explicitly tied to such controversies, carries the song’s rebellious spirit, amplified by his history of performing with hard rock legends. In a 2023 interview about his album The Last Song, Malloy shared his love for capturing the raw energy of live performances, which shines through in this 2024 recording. He’s also no stranger to reimagining classics, having worked with artists like Kenny Loggins and even voiced Starburst candy commercials, showing his versatile vocal range. The Zoo Crew can imagine Malloy belting this tune in the studio, channeling the same midnight muse Lamm described.

Mitch Malloy’s journey to the airwaves began in Dickinson, North Dakota, where he was born on August 26, 1961. His passion for music led him to study at the prestigious Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, honing his craft as a singer and songwriter. In the ‘80s, Malloy cut his teeth in New York’s vibrant music scene, eventually landing a major deal with RCA/BMG Worldwide. His 1992 self-titled debut album, featuring the top 20 rock hit Anything At All, marked his arrival, with a video that rocked MTV’s Headbangers Ball. Over the decades, Malloy’s voice caught the attention of rock royalty—he was even tapped to replace Sammy Hagar in Van Halen in the mid-‘90s, though he stepped back when David Lee Roth’s return seemed imminent. His career spans solo work, stints with bands like Great White from 2018 to 2022, and collaborations with songwriting heavyweights like Desmond Child.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with Malloy’s world, check out his official website at mitchmalloy.com for the latest news and tour dates. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses and live performance clips. On X, he shares updates and interacts with fans, keeping the rock spirit alive. Fans can also join the Mitch Malloy Fan Club on Facebook to swap stories and celebrate his music. While no dedicated fan websites stand out, the Zoo Crew encourages Freaks to keep the vinyl spinning and dive into Malloy’s catalog for more rock ‘n’ roll magic.