Only The Strong Survive

The Zoo Crew is spinning the classic track "Only The Strong Survive" by REO Speedwagon from their 1979 album Nine Lives, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the hard-rocking vibes! This song, penned by guitarist Gary Richrath, is a standout on the album, blending a glammy power-pop energy with gritty riffs that scream late '70s rock. According to a review on Defenders of the Faith, the track’s arrangement dials back the heaviness just a touch, giving it a catchy, radio-friendly edge that feels like a nod to bands like KISS. Its lyrics, like “You may not know this / But you are everything you’ve ever needed,” carry a bold, uplifting message of resilience, perfect for the Zoo Freaks vibing to the tune. Interestingly, the song later appeared on Gary Richrath’s 1992 solo album of the same name, showing its lasting impact on his creative legacy.

Another tidbit about "Only The Strong Survive" comes from its place in Nine Lives, which was REO Speedwagon’s ninth album, including their live record, hence the album’s title. As noted in a V13.net retro review, the song captures the band at their “white hot” creative peak, just before they shifted to the pop-heavy sound of 1980’s Hi Infidelity. Fans on Reddit’s ClassicRock community have called it a personal favorite, praising its driving rhythm and Richrath’s killer guitar work. The track’s raw energy made it a staple for hard rock fans, and its inclusion on Nine Lives helped cement the album as a cult classic among diehard REO followers.

REO Speedwagon got their start in 1967 in Champaign, Illinois, when keyboardist Neal Doughty and drummer Alan Gratzer met as students at the University of Illinois. As detailed on Wikipedia, Doughty, who’d been tinkering with Beatles songs on his parents’ piano, teamed up with Gratzer, a seasoned high school drummer, to form the band. They named themselves after the REO Speed Wagon, a flatbed truck made by Oldsmobile, spotted in a history class. The early years saw a revolving door of members, with vocalists like Terry Luttrell (later of Starcastle) and Kevin Cronin, who joined in 1972, shaping their sound. Despite internal conflicts and lineup changes, including Cronin’s brief exit during 1973’s Ridin’ the Storm Out, the band built a loyal Midwest following through relentless gigging at frat parties and anti-war protests. By 1977, their live album You Get What You Play For went platinum, proving their raw energy and Richrath’s searing guitar solos could captivate audiences, setting the stage for their 1980s commercial breakthrough.

Today, fans can connect with REO Speedwagon through their official Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates and nostalgic throwbacks. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The REO Speedwagon Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant hub where fans swap stories, memorabilia, and concert experiences. Another group, REO Speedwagon Fans, keeps the spirit alive with discussions about the band’s classic era. Websites like reospeedwagon.com offer official merch and tour info, while fan-driven sites such as AllMusic provide detailed discographies and reviews for enthusiasts eager to explore REO’s hard rock roots.