Head First

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Head First" by The Babys, a track from their 1978 album Head First, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the vibe. This song, with its punchy guitar riffs and John Waite’s soulful vocals, carries an interesting backstory. According to a fan review on Amazon, the album was initially rejected by Chrysalis Records after the band spent $300,000 recording in a high-end studio. The label gave them just $20,000 to re-record, forcing the band into a cramped studio setup. This raw, high-pressure environment infused the album with a unique energy, evident in the driving rhythm of "Head First." Another tidbit from a 2014 blog post on Beatopolis highlights how the song’s diversity puzzled critics, who called the album’s mix of styles "schizophrenic." Yet, this blend of rock and pop elements became a hallmark of The Babys’ sound, making "Head First" a standout for fans.

The creation of "Head First" was shaped by internal band drama. As noted on Wikipedia, founding member Michael Corby was ousted by Chrysalis in August 1978 due to conflicts, leaving John Waite, Wally Stocker, and Tony Brock to finish the album. Corby envisioned a progressive rock direction, but Waite leaned toward country-infused tracks, creating tension. The band recorded at Hidden Valley Ranch in Malibu under producer Ron Nevison, who faced disagreements over whether to prioritize rockers or ballads. This clash resulted in a re-recorded, stripped-down version of the album, with "Head First" showcasing a swaggering edge. A post on X from April 14, 2024, by user @KTrain939913, mentions the album peaking at No. 22 on the Billboard chart, driven by hits like "Head First" and "Every Time I Think of You."

The Babys formed in London in 1974, sparked by a chance meeting between Michael Corby and manager Adrian Millar at Smalls Café on Fulham Road. According to Wikipedia, they signed a management deal in September 1974 and held auditions to complete the lineup. John Waite joined as vocalist and bassist, Tony Brock as drummer, and Wally Stocker as guitarist. The band chose the name "The Babys" to appeal to record labels targeting the teen market, as noted on Last.fm. Their debut album, The Babys (1976), and follow-up Broken Heart (1977), gained traction with hits like "Isn’t It Time." By the time they recorded Head First, internal shifts led to Jonathan Cain and Ricky Phillips joining, solidifying the lineup. The band’s melodic, polished rock style drew comparisons to Queen and Bad Company, per an Amazon reviewer, and their hefty Chrysalis contract was the highest for a new act at the time.

Fans can connect with The Babys through their official channels. The band’s official website offers updates, music, and merch. Their Facebook page shares nostalgic posts and tour news, while Instagram features throwback photos and clips. On X, they engage with fans through updates and retweets. For deeper fan interaction, the The Babys Fan Group on Facebook is a hub for Zoo Freaks and others to discuss favorite tracks like "Head First." Another fan-driven space is the The Babys Rock Facebook page, celebrating the band’s legacy. While no dedicated fan websites were found, these groups keep the community vibe alive.