Rock & Roll Homeschool

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the high-energy track "Rock & Roll Homeschool" by Radkey, a single that’s got the Zoo Freaks buzzing with its raw punk rock vibe. This song, released in 2018, is a standalone anthem that captures the band’s signature blend of gritty riffs and rebellious spirit. According to a 2018 interview with Prelude Press, the band described the track as a reflection of their unconventional upbringing, channeling their experiences into a sonic middle finger to traditional education. The song’s infectious energy made it a fan favorite, with Coop Sessions on YouTube showcasing a live performance in 2021 that highlighted its chaotic, crowd-pumping power. On X, fans have shared clips of the band tearing through the song at festivals, with one user noting, “Radkey’s ‘Rock & Roll Homeschool’ is like a shot of adrenaline straight to the heart!”

Trivia about "Rock & Roll Homeschool" reveals its deep personal roots. In a Paste Magazine feature from 2018, lead vocalist Dee Radke explained that the song was inspired by the brothers’ homeschooling days in St. Joseph, Missouri, where they dove headfirst into music instead of standard textbooks. The track’s lyrics, though not fully available on platforms like Musixmatch, hint at breaking free from conformity, a theme that resonates with their DIY ethos. A fun tidbit from their Instagram shows the band joking about writing the song in their basement while “avoiding math lessons.” This raw, unpolished vibe is what makes the track a staple for fans, who often post about its relentless energy on Facebook, with one fan group, Radkey Fanatics, calling it “the ultimate punk rebellion soundtrack.”

Radkey is made up of three brothers—Dee Radke on vocals and guitar, Isaiah Radke on bass, and Solomon Radke on drums—who started their musical journey in the small town of St. Joseph, Missouri. According to their bio on Last.fm, the trio formed the band in 2010, bonding over their love for punk, rock, and horror movies. Homeschooled by their parents, they were encouraged to pursue creative outlets, which led to jamming in their basement and crafting their unique sound. Their first gig in 2011, opening for Fishbone, was a bold debut that caught attention, and with their dad, Matt Radke, as their manager, they quickly hit the road. By 2013, they were playing major festivals like SXSW and Riot Fest, sharing stages with icons like The Offspring and Jack White. Their relentless drive and tight sibling chemistry have since earned them a cult following.

The band’s rise wasn’t without challenges. In early interviews on Facebook Live sessions, Dee shared how they balanced their youth with the grind of touring, often learning music business ropes on the fly. Their official website, radkey.net, showcases their discography and tour history, while their Instagram offers glimpses into their lives, from studio sessions to quirky sibling antics. On X, they engage fans with updates and witty banter, keeping the punk spirit alive. Fans can also connect through the Radkey Fanatics Facebook group, a lively community sharing concert photos and rare merch finds. For the latest on Radkey, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or join the conversation at fan-driven spaces like Last.fm’s artist page.