Voices

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the hypnotic sounds of "Voices" by Russ Ballard from his 1984 self-titled album, spinning now on THE ZOO! This track, a haunting rock anthem, has a fascinating backstory. In an interview with Songfacts, Ballard revealed that "Voices" was inspired by the inner voice within us all, capable of being both positive and negative. He described it as a reflection of the internal dialogue that shapes our thoughts, a concept that resonates with the song’s ethereal and introspective vibe. Despite its undeniable catchiness, the song surprisingly didn’t crack the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 110, though it climbed to No. 15 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Its enigmatic quality caught the attention of the TV world, landing it in the iconic Miami Vice episode "Calderone's Return: Part 2 – Calderone's Demise," aired on October 26, 1984. Ballard shared in a 2021 interview with Defenders of the Faith that the show’s director, who also worked on the cult film The Red Dragon, personally selected "Voices" for its perfect fit with the episode’s mood, boosting its exposure to a wider audience.

Another cool tidbit about "Voices" comes from its cultural impact. As noted in a 2024 post by author Don Winslow on X, the song was a favorite in the early days of Miami Vice, often played alongside Phil Collins’ tracks, cementing its place in '80s pop culture. Fans on the Voices Of Russ Ballard Facebook group have shared stories of hearing "Voices" in clubs across Europe during the mid-'80s, where its driving beat and mysterious lyrics made it a dancefloor staple. The song’s lyrics, which speak of a voice locked away in the imagination, were described by Ballard as a personal exploration of self-censorship—locking away thoughts others might not accept, only to set them free through music. This introspective theme, paired with its anthemic energy, makes "Voices" a timeless track that still captivates listeners, as celebrated in episodes of The Voices Of Russ Ballard Podcast.

Let’s dive into how Russ Ballard, the mastermind behind "Voices," kicked off his incredible career. Born on October 31, 1945, in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, England, Ballard’s musical journey began at a young age. According to his official website, russballardmusic.com, he wrote a song at just 14 years old that was recorded by The Shadows, appearing on their 1964 album The Sound of The Shadows. This early success sparked a lifelong passion for music. Initially a guitarist, Ballard joined Buster Meikle & The Day Breakers in 1961 alongside his older brother Roy and drummer Bob Henrit. His big break came at 16 when he turned professional, joining The Roulettes to back pop star Adam Faith, touring extensively and honing his stagecraft. By 1967, he was part of Unit 4 + 2 before finding fame as the lead singer and guitarist of Argent, where he wrote the rock anthem "God Gave Rock and Roll to You," later covered by KISS and Petra. Ballard left Argent in 1974 to pursue a solo career and songwriting, penning hits like "Since You Been Gone" for Rainbow and "You Can Do Magic" for America, solidifying his status as a rock legend.

Stay connected with Russ Ballard and his music through his official channels and fan communities. Visit his website at russballardmusic.com for the latest news, music, and history. Follow him on Facebook for updates and personal responses from Russ himself, or check out his posts on Instagram. You can also find him on X for quick updates. For fans looking to connect with fellow Zoo Freaks, join the vibrant Voices Of Russ Ballard Facebook group, a hub for sharing memorabilia and stories. Another great fan resource is the Russ Ballard Fans Facebook page, where devotees celebrate his legacy. Tune in to The Voices Of Russ Ballard Podcast for exclusive interviews and insights, endorsed by Russ himself, and keep the hippie vibes flowing with THE ZOO!