Stevie

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious riffs of Stevie by the Pat Travers Band from their 1977 album Makin' Magic, and the Zoo Freaks are surely grooving to this hard rock gem. One of the most compelling stories behind Stevie comes from a 2016 interview with Pat Travers on Hit Channel. Travers revealed that the song’s intricate production, featuring multiple guitar overdubs and tape speed experimentation, nearly derailed its completion. In a panic at 2 a.m. in his London flat, with the vocal recording session looming and no lyrics written, Travers found inspiration in his younger brother, Stevie. He penned seven verses with minimal revisions, capturing a raw, personal tribute that resonates with fans for its emotional depth.

Another tidbit about Stevie highlights its unique instrumentation. According to the official Pat Travers Band website, the song features an Arp Synthesizer, but only for the trumpet solo at the beginning. Travers humorously clarified that any other synth-like sounds are actually his guitar wizardry, showcasing his innovative approach to blending rock with experimental textures. The track also boasts backing vocals by Glenn Hughes, a rock legend from Deep Purple, adding a soulful layer to the song’s gritty energy. Fans on the Pat Travers Band Fan Club Facebook group often cite Stevie as a standout for its live performances, with a 1981 live version available on Bandcamp capturing the band’s electrifying stage presence.

Pat Travers, the mastermind behind the Pat Travers Band, kicked off his musical journey in Toronto, Canada, born on April 12, 1954. His passion for the guitar ignited at age 12 after witnessing Jimi Hendrix perform in Ottawa, an experience that shaped his hard rock and blues-infused style. By his teens, Travers was playing in local bands like Music Machine, Red Hot, and Merge, cutting his teeth in Quebec’s club scene. His talent caught the eye of rock artist Ronnie Hawkins, who invited Travers to join his band, giving the young guitarist a crucial break. In his early twenties, Travers moved to London, signed with Polydor Records, and released his self-titled debut album in 1976, featuring longtime bassist Peter “Mars” Cowling. This marked the start of a prolific career, with Travers earning a loyal fanbase, affectionately dubbed “Hammer Heads,” for his searing guitar work and dynamic live shows.

Today, fans can stay connected with the Pat Travers Band through their official website, where tour dates and news are regularly updated. Their Facebook page is a hub for concert photos and fan interactions, while Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of Travers’ life on the road. On X, Travers engages with Zoo Freaks and beyond, sharing updates on new music and gigs. For die-hard fans, the Pat Travers Band Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where Hammer Heads swap stories, rare recordings, and concert memories. While no official fan websites stand out, the band’s presence across these platforms keeps the spirit of Makin' Magic alive for new and longtime listeners alike.