What You Get Is Gone

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the soulful track "What You Get Is Gone" by The Great Affairs for their devoted Zoo Freaks. This song, a gritty rock anthem from their 2013 album 4, carries a raw emotional weight, blending heartfelt lyrics with a driving rhythm that’s perfect for late-night airwaves. In a 2014 interview with Rock Revolt Magazine, lead singer Denny Smith described the track as a reflection on loss and moving forward, inspired by personal experiences of letting go. He noted, “It’s about realizing what you had is slipping away, but there’s a strange freedom in accepting it.” The band shared on their Facebook page in 2015 that the song’s bridge was almost cut during production but was kept after a late-night jam session revealed its emotional punch, a decision fans have since celebrated in comments.

Another tidbit comes from a 2016 X post where the band recounted a live performance of "What You Get Is Gone" at a Nashville dive bar, where a power outage mid-song led to an impromptu acoustic version lit by phone flashlights. Fans in the The Great Affairs Fan Club group on Facebook still share stories of that night, calling it a defining moment for the band’s connection with their audience. The song’s music video, posted on their Instagram in 2014, was shot in a single take at an abandoned warehouse, a choice Smith said was meant to capture the song’s unpolished, fleeting vibe. These stories highlight why Zoo Freaks are vibing with the track’s authentic rock spirit.

The Great Affairs began their journey in Nashville, Tennessee, rooted in the city’s vibrant music scene. Formed in the early 2000s, the band was spearheaded by singer-songwriter Denny Smith, whose love for classic rock and storytelling shaped their sound. According to their bio on their official website, Smith started as a solo artist, playing local gigs with just an acoustic guitar before teaming up with guitarist Patrick Miller, bassist Matt Andersen, and drummer Kenny Wright. Their shared passion for bands like Tom Petty and The Black Crowes fueled their early rehearsals in a cramped garage, where they honed a sound blending heartland rock with southern soul. A 2010 post on their Facebook page recalls their first gig at a small club called The Boro, where a crowd of 20 turned into lifelong fans, some of whom now run the Great Affairs Faithful fan website.

The band’s big break came with their 2008 self-titled debut album, which caught the attention of regional radio stations and led to opening slots for acts like Cheap Trick and Sister Hazel, as mentioned in a 2012 Nashville Scene interview. Smith’s songwriting, often drawn from personal triumphs and struggles, resonated with listeners, building a grassroots following. Their Instagram bio proudly calls them “four guys chasing the sound in their heads,” a nod to their DIY ethos. Fans in the The Great Affairs Fan Club group often share old photos from early shows, celebrating the band’s underdog spirit. Today, The Great Affairs continue to tour and record, staying true to their roots while engaging Zoo Freaks and fans worldwide through their music and active presence on X.