Heroes

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the volume as The Zoo Crew spins "Heroes" by Motörhead from their 2017 covers album Under Cöver! This gritty take on David Bowie’s iconic anthem is no ordinary cover—it’s one of the final recordings featuring the legendary Lemmy Kilmister, captured during the 2015 Bad Magic sessions. According to guitarist Phil Campbell, Lemmy initially hesitated, unsure if Motörhead’s raw energy could do justice to Bowie’s masterpiece. But once they dove in, Lemmy fell in love with their version, calling it a standout. Drummer Mikkey Dee echoed this, noting Lemmy’s pride in the track, not just for its quality but for the sheer fun of recording it. The band’s signature “Motörizing” style—gruff vocals, pounding bass, and bluesy guitar solos—transforms the song into a heavy metal tribute that’s unmistakably Motörhead. Released posthumously after Lemmy’s passing in December 2015, the track’s music video blends live footage with candid moments of Lemmy, making it a heartfelt farewell. Fun fact: Motörhead performed “Heroes” live just once, as an encore at Germany’s Aftershock festival in June 2015, and the YouTube video for this cover has racked up over 50 million views, a testament to its enduring impact.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the timing of the recording. Lemmy, battling health issues, poured his soul into “Heroes,” knowing it might be one of his last studio efforts. Phil Campbell shared in a 2017 interview with Classic Rock that the band saw the song as a chance to honor Bowie, who passed away just weeks after Lemmy in January 2016. The cover was later released as a seven-inch picture disc for Record Store Day 2018, featuring a fresh sketch of Motörhead’s iconic “War-Pig” logo. Fans on Reddit’s Motörhead community have called the track a tear-jerker, with one user noting it feels like “Lemmy’s final shout of victory.” The song also holds a special place in Motörhead’s legacy as part of Under Cöver, a collection of covers that showcases their knack for reimagining classics by the likes of Judas Priest, the Ramones, and Metallica with their unique, no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll swagger.

Now, let’s rewind to how Motörhead kicked off their wild ride. Formed in London in 1975, the band was the brainchild of Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister, a bassist and vocalist who’d just been booted from space-rock outfit Hawkwind. Fueled by a love for raw rock ‘n’ roll and a rebellious streak, Lemmy named the band Motörhead—a slang term for amphetamine users—setting the tone for their high-octane sound. With guitarist Larry Wallis and drummer Lucas Fox, they started as a power trio, but the lineup shifted fast. By 1976, “Fast” Eddie Clarke joined on guitar, and Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor took over drums, forming the “classic” lineup that defined their early years. Their debut single, a revved-up cover of “Leaving Here,” caught attention, but their real breakthrough came with 1979’s Overkill and Bomber, albums that blended punk’s aggression with metal’s heft. Lemmy, the band’s only constant member, insisted Motörhead was a rock ‘n’ roll band, not strictly heavy metal, drawing from influences like Little Richard and the MC5. This versatility helped them influence thrash and speed metal while building a loyal fanbase, selling over 25 million albums worldwide by 2025.

Motörhead’s journey wasn’t without chaos. Early days saw them living in squats, scraping by, and even voted “the best worst band in the world” by NME. A pivotal moment came in 1977 when, on the brink of splitting, they recorded a farewell show that led to a deal with Chiswick Records. Their 1980 album Ace of Spades and 1981’s live No Sleep ‘til Hammersmith cemented their legend status, with the title track “Ace of Spades” becoming a hard rock anthem. Over 40 years, Motörhead released 23 studio albums, weathering lineup changes—Phil Campbell joined in 1984, Mikkey Dee in 1992—and staying true to their loud, fast, and unapologetic ethos. Lemmy’s distinctive gravelly voice, warped bass, and larger-than-life persona made him a cultural icon, beloved by metalheads, punks, and bikers alike.

Stay connected with Motörhead’s legacy through their official website and social media on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can dive deeper at sites like Motorhead.us or join discussions on the Motörheadbangers World Fan Club on Facebook. Zoo Freaks, keep rocking with The Zoo Crew, and let “Heroes” remind you of Motörhead’s untamed spirit!