Starstruck

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Starstruck" by Rainbow from their iconic 1976 album Rising, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this track’s wild backstory. According to Jerry Bloom’s biography of Ritchie Blackmore, the song was inspired by a peculiar real-life incident involving a French fan named Muriel, who obsessively followed the guitarist across Europe. Blackmore recounted a moment when he spotted her hiding in the bushes outside his home, jokingly saying he “set his dogs on her” to scare her off, though he assured fans in the 1997 issue of the Blackmore fanzine More Black Than Purple that the dogs merely licked her face, and she fled unharmed. This tale of a starstruck stalker gave the song its lyrical edge, blending humor with Rainbow’s hard-hitting sound. Co-written by Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio, the uptempo track clocks in at 4 minutes and 6 seconds and was released as a single backed by “Stargazer,” showcasing its catchy riffs and Dio’s commanding vocals.

Musically, "Starstruck" stands out for its lively boogie-rock vibe, with reviewers on ProgArchives noting its “spleen solo break” and “tortured notes” that elevate the song’s energy. The track features a slide guitar solo that adds a distinctive flair, and its lyrics reflect the true story of Muriel’s fixation, making it a fan favorite for its blend of storytelling and raw power. While not as epic as “Stargazer,” “Starstruck” was often played in a shortened form during Rainbow’s 1975–1976 live shows, typically as part of “Man on the Silver Mountain,” highlighting its role as a crowd-pleaser. The song’s legacy endures, with Chicago metal band Bible of the Devil covering it on a 2004 split EP with The Last Vegas, and Motörhead and Biff Byford paying tribute to it on the 2014 Ronnie James Dio tribute album This Is Your Life.

Rainbow was formed in 1975 by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, who had just left Deep Purple to pursue a new creative vision. Blackmore recruited singer Ronnie James Dio, whose powerful vocals and fantasy-driven lyrics shaped the band’s early sound. The initial lineup also included members of the band Elf, but for Rising, Blackmore revamped the roster, bringing in drummer Cozy Powell, bassist Jimmy Bain, and keyboardist Tony Carey. Recorded in Munich in under a month with producer Martin Birch, Rising became a landmark album, laying the groundwork for power metal with its blend of hard rock and mystical themes. Blackmore’s virtuosic guitar work and Dio’s commanding presence defined Rainbow’s early years, earning them critical acclaim and a devoted following.

The band’s journey began with their debut album, Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow, which caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Blackmore’s desire to explore a more theatrical and melodic style, distinct from Deep Purple’s bluesy roots, drove Rainbow’s formation. Dio’s lyrical contributions, inspired by medieval and fantasy imagery, gave the band a unique identity. Over the years, Rainbow underwent numerous lineup changes, with Blackmore as the constant force, leading to a diverse discography that influenced countless metal bands. Though the band disbanded in 1997, Blackmore revived Rainbow in 2015 for a series of live performances, cementing their legacy as pioneers of the genre.

Fans can connect with Rainbow through their official website and social media on Facebook, Instagram, and X. For deeper engagement, fan communities thrive on platforms like the Rainbow Fanclub on Facebook, where devotees share memories, rare photos, and updates. Another fan-driven hub, Blackmore’s Night, offers insights into Blackmore’s broader career, including his Rainbow era. These sites keep the Zoo Freaks and other fans plugged into the band’s enduring legacy, ensuring “Starstruck” and Rainbow’s music continue to inspire.