I’m Leaving

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "I'm Leaving" by Taxxi from their 1982 album States of Emergency! This track, a standout from the English rock band, captures the raw energy of their AOR sound with a touch of new wave flair. According to lyricist and drummer Jeffrey Nead, the songs on States of Emergency are like "vignettes, with strong images," often rooted in romantic fantasies. While Nead noted that another track, "Cocktail Queen," was inspired by a real encounter in an Arizona bar, "I'm Leaving" carries a similar vivid storytelling vibe, painting a picture of emotional departure with its driving rhythm and David Cumming's fiery vocals. The song earned significant rock radio airplay in the U.S. and helped the album edge onto the charts, boosted by MTV exposure in the early '80s.

Taxxi's journey began in London in the late 1970s when Scottish-born singer-guitarist David Cumming crossed paths with drummer Jeffrey Nead. The duo played in various bands before teaming up with keyboardist Colin Payne, who had made a name for himself in England's reggae scene after starting as a photographer who "tinkled around" on the piano. An American music industry contact convinced the trio to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area, where they connected with manager David Leiken and signed with Fantasy Records. Their debut album, Day for Night, released in 1980, found a surprising foothold in France, where tracks like "Not Me Girl" became club hits. States of Emergency, produced with engineer Phil Kaffel, marked their peak, with session musicians like bassist Randy Jackson and keyboardist Tim Gorman adding depth to their sound.

While Taxxi doesn't maintain an active official website, fans can explore their legacy through various online platforms. Check out their music and discography details on Discogs or AllMusic for a deep dive into their work. Unfortunately, no official Facebook, Instagram, or X accounts are currently active for the band, reflecting their disbandment in the mid-'80s. However, fan-driven spaces exist for those eager to connect. The Last.fm page for Taxxi offers community insights, and collectors can browse vinyl and CDs on Discogs. While no dedicated Facebook groups for Taxxi fans were found, enthusiasts often share memories in broader '80s rock or AOR-focused groups on Facebook. Join the conversation and keep the Zoo Freak spirit alive!