School (Live 2011)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "School (Live 2011)" by Roger Hodgson from his album Classics Live, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this iconic track. This live version, recorded during Hodgson's 2010 world tour, captures the raw energy and emotional depth of the song, originally from Supertramp's 1974 album Crime of the Century. In a 2019 post on X, Hodgson shared that "School" remains a fan favorite, often performed at his concerts due to its timeless resonance. He noted its lyricsව

One fascinating piece of trivia about "School" comes from Hodgson's interviews, where he revealed the song was inspired by his own experiences at boarding school. He told Breakfast in Spain, a dedicated Roger Hodgson and Supertramp fan site, that the song reflects the sense of conformity and rebellion he felt as a young student. The haunting harmonica and driving rhythm in the live 2011 version, often performed with saxophonist Michael Ghegan, amplify this rebellious spirit, making it a standout in his setlists. Fans on the Roger Hodgson Facebook page frequently share stories of how "School" evokes memories of their own youth, with one fan commenting in a 2018 post about crying tears of joy hearing it live at the Royal Albert Hall.

Hodgson’s connection with his audience is legendary. In a 2017 interview with Breakfast in Spain, he described how sharing the stories behind songs like "School" during concerts creates a deep bond with fans, something the Zoo Freaks would surely appreciate. He often recounts how the song’s lyrics, like “Don’t do this and don’t do that,” echo the strict rules of his school days, giving it universal appeal. The Classics Live album, praised by David Wild of Rolling Stone for its “inspired performances,” includes this version of "School," which Hodgson remastered in Abbey Road Studios for Classics Live 2, as announced on his Facebook in 2019, though its release was delayed due to COVID-19.

Roger Hodgson, born Charles Roger Pomfret Hodgson on March 21, 1950, in Portsmouth, England, began his musical journey early. According to his bio on rogerhodgson.com, he received his first guitar at 12, a gift from his father during his parents’ divorce. Growing up in Oxford and attending boarding schools like Stowe School, he was the first boy at Woodcote House to learn electric guitar. His passion for music led him to co-found Supertramp in 1969, backed by Dutch millionaire Stanley Miesegaes. Hodgson’s melodic, pop-infused style, evident in "School," contrasted with co-founder Rick Davies’ jazzier approach, creating Supertramp’s unique sound. He wrote and sang many of their biggest hits, including "Dreamer" and "The Logical Song," before leaving in 1983 to pursue a solo career and a simpler life closer to nature.

Fans can stay connected with Hodgson through his official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares tour updates and personal messages. The fan-run site Breakfast in Spain is a treasure trove for Zoo Freaks, offering interviews, reviews, and news. Additionally, the Supertramp & Roger Hodgson Fans Facebook group is a vibrant community where fans discuss songs like "School" and share concert experiences, keeping the spirit of Hodgson’s music alive.