Something to Say

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Something to Say" by The Connells from their 1989 album Fun & Games, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks vibing. This song, the album’s opener, is a jangly, introspective gem that captures the band’s knack for blending catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics. In a 2015 interview with Creative Loafing, lead singer Doug MacMillan shared that "Something to Say" was born from a burst of creative energy during a late-night writing session, reflecting the band’s early struggles to find their voice in the competitive college rock scene. The song’s driving rhythm and reflective tone made it a fan favorite, often cited on X by longtime listeners as a defining track from the band’s catalog. Fans on the Connells Fans Facebook group have posted about how the song’s lyrics, like “I’ve got something to say, and I’ll say it anyway,” resonated with their own moments of breaking free from self-doubt.

Another tidbit comes from a 2021 Instagram post by the band, where guitarist Mike Connell revealed that the song’s distinctive guitar riff was inspired by a riff he’d been tinkering with since high school, finally finding its home on Fun & Games. The album itself, as noted in a Bandcamp feature, marked a pivotal moment for The Connells, showcasing their evolution from raw, youthful energy to a more polished sound, with "Something to Say" leading the charge. Fans on Reddit’s The Connells fan community often share stories of hearing the song live in the late ’80s, describing how its infectious energy got crowds moving at small venues across North Carolina. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in recent X posts, where Zoo Freaks and others still tag the band, calling it a timeless anthem for speaking one’s truth.

The Connells got their start in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1984, when brothers Mike and David Connell, both guitarists, teamed up with singer Doug MacMillan and drummer John Schultz. As detailed on their official website, the band formed during their college years, inspired by the jangle-pop sounds of R.E.M. and the vibrant local music scene. They began playing gigs at frat houses and small bars, honing their craft and building a loyal following. By 1986, they’d recorded their debut album, Darker Days, which caught the attention of indie label TVT Records. Their early days were marked by relentless touring and a DIY ethos, with the band often loading their own gear and sleeping on fans’ floors, as Mike Connell recounted in a 2020 Facebook post reflecting on their 35th anniversary.

The Connells’ big break came with their 1993 hit “’74-’75” from the album Ring, but their foundation was built on albums like Fun & Games, which showcased their ability to craft emotionally resonant pop-rock. Their bio highlights how their persistence and tight-knit camaraderie kept them going through lineup changes and industry shifts. Today, with newer members like guitarist Mike Ayers and drummer Rob Ladd, they continue to perform and release music, as seen in their 2021 album Steadman’s Wake. Fans can stay connected through theconnells.com, follow their updates on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or join discussions on fan-driven spaces like the Connells Fans Facebook group and Reddit’s The Connells community.