Way Down in the Hole

Greetings, Zoo Freaks! Your favorite hippie DJs at THE ZOO are spinning "Way Down in the Hole" by Steve Earle from his 2007 album Washington Square Serenade. This track, originally penned by Tom Waits, was chosen as the theme song for the fifth and final season of HBO’s The Wire, where Steve Earle himself played a recovering addict named Walon. The song’s gritty, soulful vibe perfectly matched the show’s raw depiction of Baltimore’s underbelly. In a 2007 interview with Pitchfork, Earle noted that the album’s producer, John King of the Dust Brothers, brought an urban edge to the track with programmed beats, though some critics felt it lacked the haunted quality of Waits’ original. Despite mixed reviews, Earle’s version stands out for its unique backing vocals, looping “in the hole” in later verses, adding a hypnotic layer to the song’s moral undertones.

Another tidbit for you Zoo Freaks: Earle’s connection to The Wire wasn’t just musical. His role as Walon, which began in the show’s first season and expanded in the fifth, drew from his own experiences with addiction, lending authenticity to both his acting and the song’s delivery. In a 2022 Medialoper blog post, writer Jim Connelly praised how Earle’s version, while not surpassing Waits’ 1987 original, carved its own niche with acoustic instruments juxtaposed against electronic drum loops. Earle himself has shared on his X account that working on The Wire was a career highlight, blending his love for music and storytelling. The song’s inclusion on Washington Square Serenade also tied into the album’s broader theme of Earle’s move to New York City, reflecting his embrace of urban life after years in Nashville.

Now, let’s dive into how Steve Earle got his start. Born Stephen Fain Earle on January 17, 1955, in Fort Monroe, Virginia, and raised near San Antonio, Texas, Earle was strumming a guitar by age 11 and playing proficiently by 13. A rebellious spirit, he clashed with local country fans over his long hair and anti-Vietnam War stance, often landing in trouble. As a teenager, he left home to live with an uncle in Houston, dropping out of high school to chase his musical dreams. By the early 1970s, Earle landed in Nashville, where he forged friendships with country “outlaws” Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, who became his musical mentors. Starting as a songwriter, Earle’s early work caught attention when artists like Johnny Lee and Carl Perkins recorded his songs. His 1982 EP, Pink & Black, showcased his band, the Dukes, and earned critical buzz, leading to a deal with Epic Records. His 1986 debut album, Guitar Town, was a commercial and critical hit, cementing his place in the alt-country scene.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with Steve Earle through his official website, where you’ll find tour dates, music, and merch. Connect with him on social media via his Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares updates on gigs and reflections on his craft. For fan communities, check out the Steve Earle Fans Facebook group, a lively spot where devotees swap stories, rare tracks, and concert memories. Another great resource is the fan-run Steve Earle Net, packed with discographies, news, and fan discussions. Stay tuned to THE ZOO for more deep cuts and keep vibing, Zoo Freaks!