Snakeskin Cowboys

Zoo Freaks, get ready for a wild ride as The Zoo Crew spins "Snakeskin Cowboys" from Ted Nugent's debut solo album, Ted Nugent! This track, released in 1975, is a hard-hitting commentary on the music industry's posers, with Nugent calling out those "dancin' around with their high-heeled boots" and fancy outfits who lack real talent. The song's lyrics, written by Nugent himself, use the "snakeskin cowboys" as a metaphor for flashy, superficial performers who rely on gimmicks rather than substance. Fun fact: the track features an 8-string Hagström bass played by Rob Grange, giving it a distinctive, gritty low-end that became a staple in Nugent's live shows. In a 2011 interview, Nugent described the song as a jab at "phonies in the rock world," reflecting his no-nonsense attitude toward authenticity in music.

Another cool tidbit about "Snakeskin Cowboys" is its live energy. A 1977 performance from the San Antonio Convention Center, captured in a live recording, showcases Nugent's raw, frenetic guitar work and Derek St. Holmes' powerful vocals, making it a fan favorite. Fans on the Ted Nugent Fans Facebook group often share stories of seeing this song performed live, with some recalling Nugent's wild stage antics, like swinging from ropes or dressing like a modern-day Tarzan. The song's message still resonates, as Nugent has posted on X, urging musicians to "keep it real" and avoid the traps of fame. For guitar nerds, check out the Songsterr tabs to learn the riffs yourself and channel that Motor City Madman vibe!

Ted Nugent, born Theodore Anthony Nugent on December 13, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, kicked off his musical journey in the mid-1960s as a teenager inspired by rock 'n' roll giants like Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley. Growing up in a military family, Nugent moved to Chicago, where he formed the first version of The Amboy Dukes in 1965 while attending St. Viator High School. The band, named after a controversial novel, gained national fame with their 1968 psychedelic hit "Journey to the Center of Your Mind." Frustrated by the band's internal conflicts and lack of discipline, Nugent dissolved The Amboy Dukes and went solo in 1975. After a three-month retreat in the Colorado wilderness to hunt and recharge, he formed the Ted Nugent Band with Derek St. Holmes, Rob Grange, and Cliff Davies, launching his debut album, Ted Nugent, which skyrocketed to multi-platinum status.

Zoo Freaks can dive deeper into Nugent’s world through his official channels and fan communities. Visit TedNugent.com for tour dates, merch, and Nugent’s latest updates. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram for photos, videos, and his outspoken takes on music and life. His X account is a hotspot for real-time rants and rock ‘n’ roll wisdom. For fan-driven content, join the Ted Nugent Fans Facebook group to swap stories and concert memories. Another great resource is Ted Nugent’s CD Gallery, a fan site packed with discography details and reviews. So, crank up "Snakeskin Cowboys," Zoo Freaks, and let The Nuge’s raw energy take you on a rock ‘n’ roll safari!