Undertow

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Undertow" by Mr. Big, a high-energy track from their 2011 album What If..., and the Zoo Freaks are loving it. This song, the lead single from the album, marked a significant moment as it was the first release with the band’s original lineup since 1996, featuring Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan, and Pat Torpey. According to fan discussions on SonicHits, "Undertow" is often praised as a potential classic, with its melodic hard rock vibe resonating deeply with audiences. One fan shared on a Mr. Big fan group that seeing the song performed live in Bratislava in 2011 was a highlight, with the band playing for over two hours, showcasing their enduring stage chemistry.

In interviews, Eric Martin has described "Undertow" as a song that captures the band’s revitalized spirit after their 2009 reunion. A quote from a 2011 interview with Frontiers Records reveals Martin saying the track was born from a jam session where Paul Gilbert’s riff set the tone, and the lyrics reflected a darker, introspective edge about being pulled under by life’s challenges. Social media posts from fans on Mr. Big’s Instagram often highlight the song’s raw energy, with one user commenting, “Still blasting Undertow in 2025, it never gets old!” The music video for "Undertow," released on YouTube in 2010, was included in the special edition DVD of the album, giving fans a visual story that complemented the song’s intensity.

Mr. Big formed in 1988 in Los Angeles, blending melodic hard rock with virtuosic musicianship. The band’s origins trace back to Billy Sheehan, a renowned bassist from Talas, who connected with vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, and drummer Pat Torpey. Their self-titled debut in 1989 gained traction, but it was 1991’s Lean Into It, with hits like “To Be With You” and “Just Take My Heart,” that catapulted them to global fame. According to their bio on SonicHits, Mr. Big’s sound merged the era’s hard rock trends with a focus on catchy melodies and technical prowess, appealing to both mainstream and niche audiences. Despite a breakup in 2002 due to internal tensions, fan demand led to their 2009 reunion, which paved the way for What If... and tracks like "Undertow."

Fans can stay connected with Mr. Big through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates, throwback photos, and tour announcements. The band’s official website, mrbigsite.com, offers tour dates, merchandise, and a discography. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities like the Mr. Big Fan Club on Facebook provide a space to share stories, rare photos, and concert experiences. Another fan site, Mr. Big Fix, offers detailed discographies and news archives, keeping the spirit of Mr. Big alive for dedicated followers.