Stick To Your Guns

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the high-energy track "Stick To Your Guns" by Sweet F.A. from their debut album of the same name, igniting the airwaves for their devoted Zoo Freaks. This song, a standout from the 1989 release, captures the raw, sleazy essence of late '80s glam metal with its infectious riffs and rebellious attitude. One piece of trivia about "Stick To Your Guns" is its role as a fan favorite during Sweet F.A.'s live performances, often cited in fan discussions on platforms like Facebook groups for its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus that got crowds pumping their fists. Though specific interviews about the song are scarce, a 2007 post on Sleaze Roxx mentioned that the track was one of the band's proudest moments, reflecting their commitment to delivering unapologetic rock 'n' roll. The song's gritty vibe and lyrics about standing firm resonated with the era's youth, making it a staple in the glam metal scene.

Another tidbit comes from fan lore shared on Metal Archives, where devotees recall how "Stick To Your Guns" was reportedly written during a late-night jam session in Indianapolis, fueled by whiskey and a desire to craft something that would "kick the doors down" at clubs. While no direct quotes from the band confirm this, the story aligns with Sweet F.A.'s reputation for living the rock lifestyle they sang about. The album, including this track, was produced with a polished yet raw edge, typical of the era, and fans on Instagram often share throwback photos of the band performing it live, decked out in leather and big hair. The song's enduring appeal is evident in its occasional resurfacing at retro rock nights, as noted in a 2019 Sleaze Roxx article about the band's brief reunion shows in 2007, where "Stick To Your Guns" was a setlist highlight.

Sweet F.A. got their start in the mid-1980s in Indianapolis, Indiana, a city not typically known for its rock scene but buzzing with enough local talent to spawn this sleaze rock outfit. Formed by vocalist Steven David DeLong, bassist Jim "Quiggins" Quick, and drummer Tricky Lane, the band was later joined by guitarists Jon "Lightning" Huffman and James Thunder. According to their bio on Sleaze Roxx, the group came together out of a shared love for bands like Mötley Crüe and Poison, aiming to capture that same wild, party-hard energy. They honed their craft in local bars and clubs, building a loyal following with their flashy performances and catchy hooks. By 1988, their demo caught the attention of MCA Records, leading to the release of their debut album, Stick To Your Guns, in 1989. The band’s early days were marked by relentless gigging and a DIY ethos, with members often handling their own promotion, as recalled in fan posts on Sweet F.A.'s Facebook page.

Their second album, Temptation, came in 1991 with new bassist Mark Matthews, but the rise of grunge shifted musical tides, and Sweet F.A. struggled to maintain momentum. They disbanded shortly after, though a 2007 reunion brought them back briefly, resulting in The Lost Tapes, a collection of unreleased tracks, and a couple of Indianapolis shows. Fans can connect with Sweet F.A. through their official presence on Facebook and explore fan-driven content on Instagram under hashtags like #SweetFA. While their X account is less active, it occasionally shares retro photos and updates. Dedicated fan communities thrive on platforms like Facebook groups such as "Sweet F.A. Fans," where enthusiasts swap stories and rare memorabilia. For the latest on the band, check out Sleaze Roxx, a fan-favorite site that keeps the spirit of Sweet F.A. alive.