Dictator

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Dictator" by Rocky Athas from his 2017 album Shakin' The Dust, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this Texas blues-rock anthem. In a 2018 interview with Blues.Gr, Athas shared that "Dictator" was born out of pure fun, inspired by the joyful energy of Freddie King's live performances. He described the song as an improvisation, with no pre-written solo, capturing his in-the-moment guitar passion. The track kicks off the album with what reviewers call "razor-sharp and blistering strings," setting the tone for a record that’s both a personal journey and a universal call to take control of one’s life. Athas has said the song resonates with anyone stuck in a one-sided job or relationship, making it an anthem for breaking free.

The music video for "Dictator," premiered in 2018 on Music-News.com, offers a raw look at Athas and his band jamming in the studio. Directed by Oscar Chavira, it showcases the authentic recording process, with each note from Athas’ 1960 Fender Stratocaster tracked live through a classic mixing board—no editing or synthesizing needed. Fans can even download the song for free on Athas’ official website, a gesture that reflects his commitment to connecting with listeners. On X, Athas posted about the video’s world premiere in February 2018, asking fans to share their thoughts and retweet, showing his hands-on engagement with his audience.

Rocky Athas got his start in Oak Cliff, Texas, where he grew up playing guitar alongside schoolmate Stevie Ray Vaughan. By 23, he was named one of Texas’ top ten guitarists by Buddy Magazine, a list that included legends like Eric Johnson and Billy Gibbons. His early career took off in the late 1970s as a session musician for Polygram Records at Memphis’ Ardent Studios. Thin Lizzy was so impressed by his performance at Dallas’ Mother Blues Festival that they wrote the song "Cocky Rocky" about him. Athas’ solo career gained traction with albums like Miracle and Voodoo Moon, produced by Grammy-winner Jim Gaines, and his eight-year stint as lead guitarist for John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers cemented his reputation as a blues-rock powerhouse.

Athas’ influences range from Jimi Hendrix and Freddie King to George Harrison, whom he admires for weaving melody into compositions. His songwriting blends these inspirations with personal experiences, focusing on staying real and present. Today, he leverages technology to connect with fans, offering autographed albums and direct communication through his website and social media. You can follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans also gather at sites like ILoveBluesGuitar.com, which featured "Dictator" in 2022, and there’s a dedicated Facebook community sharing updates and celebrating his Texas blues legacy.