Every Kinda People

Zoo Freaks, your favorite hippie DJs at THE ZOO are spinning the soulful vibes of Every Kinda People by Robert Palmer from his 1978 album Double Fun. This track, written by former Free bassist Andy Fraser, was Palmer’s first Top 40 hit in the U.S., peaking at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Fraser originally penned a more political version of the song, but Palmer reshaped it into a universal anthem of peace and multiculturalism, blending Caribbean steel pan and violins for that signature laid-back groove. In the liner notes for his Addictions, Volume 1 compilation, Palmer noted the song’s positive impact, saying he received “a lot of letters from religious organizations” praising its uplifting message. A 1992 remix for Addictions: Volume 2 swapped the bass-heavy hook for an acoustic guitar, giving it an “unplugged” feel that hit number 8 on the U.S. Adult Contemporary chart.

The song’s creation had its own magic. Fraser, who also wrote Free’s All Right Now, recorded a version he never released, but Palmer heard it and saw its potential. Recorded at Compass Point Studios in the Bahamas, the track featured Philly Sound bassist Bob Babbitt, whose iconic riff defined the original. The song’s enduring appeal led to covers by artists like Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker, and Amy Grant. Fans on Reddit have shared their love for its soulful power, with one user, Camille from Toronto, admitting they were shocked to learn Palmer sang it, having only known him for 1980s hits like Addicted to Love. Another fan, Howard L. from Pennsylvania, praised Palmer’s knack for picking “good songs other people, by and large, have missed.”

Robert Palmer’s journey to stardom began in Batley, Yorkshire, England, where he was born on January 19, 1949. His early love for American soul, funk, and jazz shaped his eclectic sound. As a teenager, he joined the Alan Bown Set, singing on their 1969 UK release. By the early 1970s, he was fronting Vinegar Joe, a gritty rock-soul band, alongside Elkie Brooks. After the band dissolved, Island Records signed him as a solo artist in 1974. His debut album, Sneakin’ Sally Through the Alley, recorded in New Orleans with The Meters and Little Feat’s Lowell George, fused funk and soul, earning critical praise but modest chart success. Palmer’s move to the Bahamas, across from Compass Point Studios, fueled his Caribbean-infused sound, leading to the breakthrough of Double Fun.

Zoo Freaks can stay connected with Palmer’s legacy through his official website, a treasure trove of facts and history. His Facebook page keeps the community alive with updates and tributes, while his Instagram shares iconic photos and clips. On X, fans post memories, like @thierrychanu’s 2025 tribute to Palmer’s funk-soul passion. For deeper dives, check out the fan-driven Robert Palmer Fan Group on Facebook, where devotees share rare photos and vinyl finds. Another gem is the Robert Palmer Discography fan site, detailing his albums and singles. Keep groovin’, Zoo Freaks, and let’s celebrate Palmer’s soulful legacy!