Only The Young

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track "Only The Young" by Scandal, from their 1984 album Warrior, for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This song, while not as commercially successful as the album’s title track, carries a vibrant energy that captures the band’s pop-rock spirit. According to co-writer Holly Knight, the song reflects themes of youthful rebellion and untamed passion, with lyrics like “I don’t wanna tame your animal style” highlighting the balance between freedom and restraint in relationships. Knight noted in a Songfacts interview that the song’s raw, animalistic energy resonated with the band’s dynamic performances. Interestingly, "Only The Young" found a second life in pop culture, appearing in the soundtrack for the Netflix series GLOW, which celebrates the rebellious spirit of 1980s female wrestlers, aligning perfectly with the song’s fierce individuality.

Another tidbit about "Only The Young" comes from its recording process. Lead singer Patty Smyth shared in a Spin interview that the band’s synergy in the studio was electric, with the track capturing their live energy. Smyth’s powerful vocals, paired with the band’s tight instrumentation, made it a fan favorite during their 1984 tour. The song’s inclusion in the Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80s video game further cemented its status as a nostalgic gem for rock fans. While Scandal didn’t share specific social media posts about this track on their Facebook or Instagram, their accounts often highlight the Warrior era, with throwback photos and fan comments praising the album’s enduring appeal.

Scandal formed in New York City in 1981, sparked by guitarist Zack Smith’s vision to create a mainstream pop-rock outfit. Smith, who had played with musicians like Dee Murray and Davey Johnstone from Elton John’s band, recruited a talented lineup, including bassist Ivan Elias, guitarist Keith Mack, keyboardist Benjy King, and drummer Frankie LaRocka, later replaced by Thommy Price. The pivotal addition was vocalist Patty Smyth, whose commanding voice and stage presence became the band’s hallmark. According to IMDb and AXS TV, Scandal started as an opening act for bands like The Kinks and Hall & Oates, honing their craft before releasing their self-titled debut EP in 1982. The EP’s hit "Goodbye to You" gained heavy MTV rotation, setting the stage for their 1984 album Warrior, which went platinum, driven by the Top 10 single "The Warrior."

The band’s early days were marked by a gritty determination to break through in a male-dominated rock scene. Smyth, often compared to Pat Benatar and Debbie Harry, brought a unique blend of toughness and vulnerability, as noted in a Classic Rock History piece. Despite their success, internal struggles and record label issues led to their breakup in 1985 after the Warrior tour. Smyth pursued a solo career, notably with her 1992 hit duet "Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough" with Don Henley, and later married tennis star John McEnroe. Scandal reunited in 2004 for a small tour, and in 2008, they announced new music, including the single "Hard for You to Love Me," though the promised EP evolved into a full album that was delayed, as Smyth shared on her X account.

Fans of Scandal can connect through various platforms. The band’s official website offers tour updates and merch, while their Facebook and Instagram pages share nostalgic posts and fan interactions. Smyth’s X account provides personal insights, often engaging with fans about the band’s legacy. For dedicated Zoo Freaks, fan communities like the Patty Smyth and Scandal Fan Group on Facebook offer a space to share memories and discuss the band’s music. While no major fan websites are currently active, the Rate Your Music page for Scandal provides a detailed discography and fan reviews, celebrating their impact on 1980s rock.