Shame

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Shame" by Robin Trower from the 1991 compilation album Guitar Speak II, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this soulful, blues-infused track. While specific trivia about "Shame" itself is scarce, the song is a testament to Trower's signature guitar style, marked by emotive bends and a tone often compared to Jimi Hendrix. In a 2019 Songfacts interview, Trower described his approach to guitar as striving for fluidity and soul, which shines through in "Shame." The Guitar Speak II album, featuring various guitarists, showcases Trower's ability to stand out with his expressive phrasing, a skill he honed over decades. Fans on Facebook have praised Trower's live performances from this era, noting his ability to make the guitar "talk like a human voice," a quality likely evident in this track.

Another layer of intrigue comes from Trower's broader career context around the time of Guitar Speak II. In a 2020 Louder interview, he reflected on the magic of his early records, suggesting that his work in the late '80s and early '90s, including contributions like "Shame," was about chasing that same creative spark. The song's inclusion in Guitar Speak II, a project curated to highlight guitar virtuosity, underscores Trower's reputation as a revered figure among peers. Posts on X from fans, like one from @JVMonte2 in 2025, celebrate Trower's enduring influence, with many citing his ability to blend blues and rock as a highlight of tracks like those on Guitar Speak II. While "Shame" may not have a specific anecdote tied to it, its existence in this compilation speaks to Trower's consistent ability to deliver powerful, emotive performances.

Robin Trower began his musical journey in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, born on March 9, 1945. His early career kicked off in 1962 when, at just 17, he formed The Paramounts, a band that included future Procol Harum member Gary Brooker. The Paramounts disbanded in 1966, but Trower's passion for music led him to form a short-lived trio called The Jam (distinct from the later band). In 1967, he joined Procol Harum, contributing to their iconic hit "A Whiter Shade of Pale" and their first five albums until 1971. Seeking more creative freedom, Trower briefly formed Jude with singer Frankie Miller before launching the Robin Trower Band in 1973 with bassist/vocalist James Dewar and drummer Reg Isidore. His 1974 album Bridge of Sighs catapulted him to stardom, cementing his legacy as a blues-rock guitar hero.

Today, fans can connect with Trower through his official website, where updates on tours and releases like the 2025 album Come And Find Me are shared. His Facebook page, with over 297,000 followers, is a hub for concert announcements and fan discussions. On Instagram, Trower posts about new music and tour dates, while X sees fans and accounts like @ClassicRockMag celebrating his legacy. For deeper fan engagement, TrowerPower.com offers news, tour updates, and a community for devotees. Additionally, the Robin Trower Fans Facebook group provides a space for Zoo Freaks and others to share memories, discuss tracks like "Shame," and celebrate Trower's enduring impact.