Harden My Heart

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove to "Harden My Heart" by Quarterflash, a track that’s pure 80s magic from their self-titled debut album! This song, written by guitarist Marv Ross, has some cool stories behind it. Marv revealed that the song’s title came from a poem by a friend, sparking lyrics that flowed quickly, though not from personal experience—just pure creativity. The chords, he noted, are simple but cleverly voiced to sound more intricate, giving the song its catchy, layered vibe. Originally recorded by the band’s earlier incarnation, Seafood Mama, in 1980, it was re-released after their name change to Quarterflash and soared to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1982. The music video is a wild ride, too, with theatrical scenes in a dark office trailer, complete with swinging light bulbs, before it’s dramatically bulldozed and set ablaze—talk about a breakup anthem with flair!

Another fun tidbit: the band hadn’t settled on the name Quarterflash during the recording sessions in February 1981. Contracts from the Record Plant in L.A. listed them as "Chance," showing how last-minute their iconic name choice was. Fans on X have shared their love for the track, with one user, @WilliamScurry, noting in April 2025 that Rindy Ross not only sang but also rocked the saxophone, adding that unforgettable sax hook that makes the song pop. The song’s legacy lives on, even appearing in the Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories soundtrack on the in-game radio station Emotion 98.3, cementing its place in pop culture.

Quarterflash started as a fusion of two popular Oregon bands in 1980: Seafood Mama, led by Rindy Ross on vocals and saxophone and her husband Marv Ross on guitar, and Pilot (not the Scottish "Magic" band), which brought guitarist Jack Charles, keyboardist Rick DiGiallonardo, bassist Rich Gooch, and drummer Brian David Willis. Rindy and Marv, who met and married while performing at Western Oregon University in the 70s, were both schoolteachers who took early retirement to chase music full-time. Their early gigs as Seafood Mama in smoky bars between Seattle and Portland built a loyal following, with Rindy’s sax skills—seen by her as an extension of her voice—stealing the show. Their local hit "Harden My Heart" caught the ear of Geffen Records, who signed them as their first new act in 1981. The band’s name, Quarterflash, came from an Australian slang phrase meaning "a quarter flash, three parts foolish," found in a book at producer John Boylan’s house. Their debut album went platinum, selling over a million copies, and launched them on tours with giants like Elton John and Linda Ronstadt.

Stay connected with Quarterflash through their official website and social media on Facebook, where they share updates about their music and projects like The Trail Band. While their Instagram and X accounts are less active, they still offer glimpses into their legacy. Fans can also join the Quarterflash Fan Group on Facebook, a lively community sharing memories and celebrating the band’s music. For more fan-driven love, check out Last.fm, where listeners swap stories and track their favorite Quarterflash tunes. Zoo Crew, keep spinning those records and let the Zoo Freaks keep the 80s alive!