School (Live 2011)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the soulful vibes of "School (Live 2011)" by Roger Hodgson, a track that resonates with the Zoo Freaks tuning in to THE ZOO radio station. This live rendition, performed with saxophonist Michael Ghegan and featuring Emily Bear, captures the raw energy of Hodgson’s progressive rock roots. The song, originally from Supertramp’s 1974 album Crime of the Century, was inspired by Hodgson’s experiences at boarding school, where he spent ten years grappling with questions of identity and purpose. In a 2012 interview with Songfacts, Hodgson shared that the song reflects his childhood musings on “what really matters in life,” a theme that struck a chord with fans for its introspective lyrics. He noted that the lyrics are among the most quoted in schools, a testament to their enduring relevance. The live 2011 performance, often praised for its emotional depth, showcases Hodgson alternating between electric keys, grand piano, and guitars, creating a cathartic experience for audiences, as described by Subba-Cultcha magazine.

Another layer of trivia comes from Hodgson’s reflections on the song’s creation. He has often shared during concerts how “School” was born from his struggles with the rigid British educational system, a sentiment echoed in the song’s haunting harmonica and introspective tone. A 2019 post on @RogerHodgson highlighted “School” as a fan favorite from Crime of the Century, noting its frequent inclusion in his live sets alongside other hits like “Dreamer” and “Hide in Your Shell.” Fans on the Roger Hodgson Fan Club Facebook page have shared stories of how the song’s lyrics helped them navigate their own school experiences, with one fan recalling how the 2011 live version brought them to tears during a concert in London. The song’s universal appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, a quality Hodgson has always aimed to achieve, as he emphasized in a 2006 interview, stating, “I’m an artist who wants to give people the best experience they can have.”

Roger Hodgson began his musical journey in Portsmouth, England, born on March 21, 1950. His creative spark ignited early, fueled by a guitar gifted to him at age 12 by his father during his parents’ divorce. At boarding school, Woodcote House, he taught himself three chords and performed his first concert at 13, playing nine original songs with his band, the H-bombs. His early exposure to music was shaped by the British educational system’s constraints, which later inspired songs like “School.” By 19, Hodgson stepped into a recording studio with the band People Like Us, though their single “Duck Pond” never saw release. His big break came in 1969 when he auditioned for Island Records and joined the pop band Argosy, which included a young Reginald Dwight—later known as Elton John. That same year, his mother’s encouragement led him to an audition with Rick Davies, resulting in the formation of Supertramp. Hodgson’s distinctive voice and songwriting, blending pop and progressive rock, defined the band’s early sound, leading to hits like “The Logical Song” and “Breakfast in America.”

Fans can stay connected with Hodgson through his official website, where tour updates and discography details are shared. His Facebook page, with over 194,000 followers, offers concert clips and personal messages, while his Instagram showcases behind-the-scenes moments from tours. On X, Hodgson engages with fans, sharing milestones like the 45th anniversary of Crime of the Century. The Roger Hodgson Fan Club on Facebook, with nearly 2,000 members, is a vibrant community where Zoo Freaks can swap concert stories and celebrate his music. Another fan hub, rogerhodgson.fr, provides updates in French and details on his global tours, keeping the spirit of Hodgson’s music alive for fans worldwide.