Dead End Street

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Dead End Street" by Steve Plunkett from his 1991 solo album My Attitude, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving with its hard rock edge. This song, nestled among others like "Heavy Pettin’" and a cover of "Louie Louie," captures the tail end of the '80s glam metal vibe that Plunkett helped define with his band Autograph. While specific interviews or social media posts about "Dead End Street" are scarce, the album itself is a fan favorite for its raw energy and Plunkett’s songwriting chops. One reviewer on Amazon raved about the album’s “unbelievable” guitar sound and wished it had been released under Autograph’s name, suggesting it could’ve been a game-changer for the band’s legacy. The track’s placement on My Attitude reflects Plunkett’s attempt to keep the party going post-Autograph, even as the music scene shifted toward grunge.

Another tidbit about My Attitude is its impressive lineup of guest musicians, which likely influenced "Dead End Street"’s polished yet gritty sound. HardRock 80 notes that the album featured Vivian Campbell (of Def Leppard fame) on guitar for "Louie Louie," alongside Steve Lynch and Steven Isham from Autograph on tracks like "My Attitude" and "You Make Me Bleed." This collaboration gave the album, and by extension "Dead End Street," a blend of familiar Autograph swagger with fresh flair. Fans on Amazon have called it a “rare find” with a “great flow from start to end,” highlighting Plunkett’s knack for crafting hook-heavy rockers that stick with listeners. Though "Dead End Street" itself hasn’t sparked specific anecdotes in available sources, its role in the album showcases Plunkett’s determination to carve out a solo identity.

Steve Plunkett’s journey to "Dead End Street" began in the early '80s when he formed Autograph, a Los Angeles-based hard rock band that became a staple of the hair metal era. Born in 1953 in the United States, Plunkett’s early career was rooted in the vibrant L.A. music scene. According to Sleaze Roxx, he recruited friends and former bandmates like Steve Lynch (guitar), Randy Rand (bass), Keni Richards (drums), and Steven Isham (keyboards) to record a demo cassette. With help from producer Andy Johns and a boost from David Lee Roth, who secured Autograph an opening slot on Van Halen’s 1984 tour, Plunkett’s band landed a deal with RCA. Their debut album, Sign In Please, went gold, driven by the hit single "Turn Up The Radio," which cracked Billboard’s Top 30. This success laid the groundwork for Plunkett’s later solo work, including My Attitude.

After Autograph’s breakup in 1989, Plunkett pivoted to his solo career, releasing My Attitude in 1991 through Epic Records. The album was a natural extension of his Autograph days, blending catchy melodies with hard-hitting riffs, but it didn’t achieve the same commercial success. Post-My Attitude, Plunkett stayed active, writing songs for other hard rock acts and briefly reforming Autograph in 2002 with a new lineup, as noted by HardRock 80. His ability to adapt while staying true to his rock roots speaks to his resilience in a changing industry. Plunkett’s start wasn’t just about luck; it was about leveraging connections, seizing opportunities like the Van Halen tour, and pouring his heart into songwriting.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Steve Plunkett’s world, his official online presence is limited but accessible. You can check out his Facebook page, which has about 158 likes and serves as his official hub for updates. Social media accounts on Instagram and X are also linked to his name, though activity is minimal. There’s no dedicated official website for Plunkett, but fan-driven spaces keep his legacy alive. The Autograph Fans Facebook Group is a lively community where supporters share memories, discuss tracks like those from My Attitude, and celebrate Plunkett’s contributions to rock. For more on his discography, sites like AllMusic offer detailed insights into his work. Whether you’re cranking "Dead End Street" or digging into his Autograph days, Plunkett’s music still resonates with rock fans everywhere.