Some People

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Some People" by Smith/Kotzen from their self-titled debut album! This mid-tempo funky rocker is a standout track, showcasing the dynamic collaboration between Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen. According to a review from Sonic Perspectives, "Some People" features the best vocal trade-offs between the duo, with their voices blending soulful and powerful tones. The song’s solos strike a perfect balance between soulful melodies and flashy guitar work, mixed by the legendary Kevin Shirley to give each instrument breathing space. Adrian Smith shared in a MetalTalk interview that the song captures their philosophy of crafting '70s-inspired heavy bluesy rock with a modern edge, making it a fan favorite for its infectious energy and relatable lyrics about chasing dreams.

The making of "Some People" was part of an organic creative process that defined the Smith/Kotzen album. Recorded in February 2020 on the Turks & Caicos Islands, the track reflects the duo’s shared love for classic rock and blues. Richie Kotzen noted in a Guitar World interview that their collaboration thrives on maturity and mutual respect, allowing them to blend their styles without forcing one to dominate. The song’s funky rhythm and catchy chorus draw comparisons to Lenny Kravitz, as mentioned in a Sonic Perspectives review, highlighting its pop-accented appeal. Fans on Smith/Kotzen’s Facebook page have praised "Some People" for its live performance potential, with some sharing clips from their 2022 UK tour where the song’s guitar interplay electrified audiences.

Adrian Smith, best known as a guitarist for Iron Maiden, began his musical journey in London, inspired by '70s rock and blues bands like Deep Purple and Jimi Hendrix. According to his bio on Smith/Kotzen’s official website, he started playing guitar as a teenager, driven by a desire to join a band and perform. His early years with Iron Maiden, joining in 1980, cemented his reputation as a melodic and versatile guitarist, co-writing iconic songs like "The Prisoner." Richie Kotzen, on the other hand, kicked off his career in Pennsylvania, teaching himself guitar at age seven after being inspired by KISS, as detailed in his Wikipedia bio. By 19, he released his first solo album with Shrapnel Records, showcasing his virtuosic guitar skills and soulful vocals. Kotzen’s stints with Poison, Mr. Big, and The Winery Dogs further established him as a multi-instrumentalist and prolific songwriter.

The Smith/Kotzen project was born from a friendship that started years ago in Los Angeles, where the two musicians bonded over their shared influences. Adrian Smith’s bluesy roots and Richie Kotzen’s fusion of soul, funk, and rock created a unique sound that resonates with fans on platforms like Instagram and X. Their collaboration is celebrated for its authenticity, with both artists sharing vocal and guitar duties, a rarity that Adrian likened to classic bands like Humble Pie in a MetalTalk interview. Fans can connect with the duo on their Facebook page, where they post updates about tours and new releases, or follow their latest posts on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content.

For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, there are fan-driven spaces to explore. The Smith/Kotzen Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant community where supporters share concert photos, discuss favorite tracks like "Some People," and organize meetups for live shows. Additionally, Metal Storm, a heavy metal webzine, features a fan-built community with forums dedicated to Smith/Kotzen, offering news and discussions about their music. Whether you’re vibing to "Some People" or exploring their catalog, the Zoo Crew encourages you to check out Smith/Kotzen’s official website and join the conversation on X to keep the rock 'n' roll spirit alive!