I Get By

The Zoo Crew is spinning "I Get By" by Stealers Wheel, a track from their 1972 self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its folk-rock groove. This song, less celebrated than the band’s iconic "Stuck in the Middle With You," showcases the raw energy of the Scottish band’s early days. According to a 2015 Analog Planet review, the album, including "I Get By," was marked by high energy and spare arrangements, capturing a darker, introspective side of the band’s songwriting. The track features Luther Grosvenor on lead guitar, who stepped in after Gerry Rafferty briefly left the band, adding a distinctive edge to its sound. On November 7, 1972, Stealers Wheel performed "I Get By" on BBC 2’s The Old Grey Whistle Test, a moment that helped introduce their music to a broader audience. While no specific interviews or social media posts directly quote the band about "I Get By," the song’s lyrical depth and upbeat tempo reflect the band’s knack for blending existential themes with catchy melodies, a hallmark of their early work.

Stealers Wheel was formed in 1972 in Paisley, Scotland, by childhood friends Gerry Rafferty and Joe Egan, who bonded over their love for music. The duo started as a folk-rock outfit, initially joined by Roger Brown, Rab Noakes, and Iain Campbell. However, by the time they signed with A&M Records, the lineup shifted to include Paul Pilnick, Tony Williams, and Rod Coombes. Their debut album, produced by the legendary American duo Leiber & Stoller, was a critical and commercial success, driven by the hit "Stuck in the Middle With You." Rafferty’s prior experience in the folk duo The Humblebums with Billy Connolly in the late 1960s honed his songwriting, while Egan’s keyboard skills and vocal harmonies gave the band its signature sound. Despite their talent, internal tensions and frequent lineup changes led to the band’s breakup in 1975, though their music endures through reissues and cultural moments like the use of "Stuck in the Middle With You" in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, the band’s official website offers a glimpse into their history and discography. While Stealers Wheel’s official Facebook page shares updates and nostalgic posts, their Instagram is less active but occasionally features album art and throwbacks. On X, the band’s account engages with fans through retweets and music-related content. Fans can also connect on the Stealers Wheel Fan Group on Facebook, a community where enthusiasts share memories, rare tracks, and news. Additionally, the fan-run site gerryrafferty.com provides extensive details on Rafferty’s career, including his Stealers Wheel era, making it a treasure trove for dedicated followers.