Hey Hey Mama

The Zoo Crew is spinning the soulful vibes of Hey Hey Mama by Robert Jon & The Wreck from their 2016 album Good Life Pie, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this Southern rock gem! This track, a fan favorite, has a gritty, emotional edge, with lyrics that tell a haunting story of heartbreak and betrayal. According to SonicHits, the song’s narrative centers on a tragedy sparked by a lie, with metaphors like burying someone in the backyard or hanging them in a tree reflecting the raw pain of a broken heart. The chorus, calling out to “Mama” to hear the singer’s cries, adds a layer of vulnerability that resonates deeply with listeners.

In a 2023 interview with antiMusic, frontman Robert Jon Burrison shared that Hey Hey Mama has been a staple in their live sets since its release. Originally featuring Kris Butcher on guitar and Dave Pelusi on bass, the song evolved with the addition of Henry James and Warren Murrel in 2017. A live version recorded at a sold-out show in Brussels on June 29, 2022, for their Live At The Ancienne Belgique DVD, stretches into a psychedelic jam with a fuzzy guitar solo intro and an extended outro, showcasing the band’s improvisational flair. Fans on Instagram have called this live rendition “a total banger,” praising its vocal harmonies and infectious energy.

Robert Jon & The Wreck began in Orange County, California, in 2011, when Robert Jon Burrison, a singer-songwriter with a knack for blending Southern rock and blues, teamed up with a group of talented musicians. Initially the backing band for Burrison’s solo work, the group—Kristopher Butcher (lead guitar), Steve Maggiora (keys), Andrew Espantman (drums), and Dave Pelusi (bass)—decided to write and produce music together, creating a harder, more rock-driven sound. As noted on SonicHits, their dedication to relentless touring and high-energy performances quickly built a loyal following. In just four years, they released two full-length albums, two EPs, and a cassette tape, while playing hundreds of shows across 31 U.S. states and eight European countries.

The band’s rise was fueled by their commitment to delivering unforgettable live shows, a trait that earned them comparisons to classic rock greats like Foghat and Savoy Brown on Bandcamp. Their 2016 album Good Life Pie, produced by Warren Huart, marked a turning point, showcasing tighter songwriting and richer harmonies. Today, you can keep up with their tour dates and new releases on their official website, follow their latest posts on Facebook, catch behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram, or join the conversation with Zoo Freaks and other fans on X. For those craving more, check out the fan-driven Robert Jon & The Wreck Fan Group on Facebook, where supporters share concert stories and celebrate the band’s music.