Human Race (featuring Alex Lifeson)

Zoo Freaks, get ready to crank up the vibes with "Human Race" by Rik Emmett featuring the legendary Alex Lifeson from the album RES9! This track is a galloping rock anthem that’ll have you racing through the cosmic airwaves. One juicy tidbit about this song is that Lifeson, the iconic Rush guitarist, laid down some period-perfect 12-string guitar riffs to give it that extra sonic punch. In a press release, Lifeson shared his excitement, saying, “When Rik asked me to play on his new album, I didn’t hesitate for a second. He’s the consummate musician, a wonderful guitarist, and a terrific person.” He even wrestled with a “notoriously uncooperative Rickenbacker 12-string” to nail those parts—talk about dedication! The song’s lyrics, with lines like “I got a raging heart, the hot wired kind,” reflect Emmett’s lifelong passion for music and his quest to figure out who he is, making it a perfect fit for our free-spirited Zoo Crew vibe.

Another cool story comes from the recording process at MetalWorks Studios near Toronto, a spot where both Triumph and Rush have cut tracks. Emmett and Lifeson felt right at home, and the brotherhood of musicians shone through. Dave Dunlop, Emmett’s guitarist in RESolution9, noted that Lifeson’s collaboration was a “great example of the collective efforts of the brotherhood.” The song also features a magical harmony guitar part that elevates its soaring energy. Emmett himself said in an interview with Guitar World, “The idea behind ‘Human Race’ and a lot of the songs on the album was to figure out who I am and why I’m doing what I’m doing.” That introspective vibe, paired with its riff-heavy rock groove, makes it a staple for all you Zoo Freaks chasing the meaning of life through music.

Let’s rewind to how Rik Emmett got his start, Zoo Freaks! Born in Toronto, Canada, Emmett kicked off his musical journey in the early 1970s, diving into the rock scene with a fiery passion. He co-founded the power trio Triumph in 1975, where he served as lead guitarist, vocalist, and primary songwriter. Triumph’s high-energy performances and hits like “Lay It on the Line” and “Magic Power” made them a Canadian rock institution, earning Emmett a spot in the Canadian Rock Hall of Fame. After leaving Triumph in 1988, he embarked on a diverse solo career, exploring rock, jazz, and flamenco with projects like the Strung-Out Troubadours. His versatility and songwriting craft have kept him rocking for decades, and RES9, released in 2016, is a testament to his enduring creativity.

Zoo Crew fans, you can keep up with Rik Emmett’s latest grooves on his official website, where you’ll find tour dates, merch, and more. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes goodies. For the ultimate Zoo Freak experience, check out the fan-driven Rik Emmett Fans Facebook group, where diehards share stories, rare photos, and love for all things Rik. There’s also Triumph’s official site for nostalgia kicks, and fan sites like Rush is a Band often dive into Emmett’s collabs with Lifeson. So, spin those records, Zoo Freaks, and let “Human Race” take you on a wild ride!