Downstream

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track Downstream by The Rainmakers from their 1986 debut album, The Rainmakers, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its rollicking roots-rock energy. This song, penned by frontman Bob Walkenhorst, is a lyrical gem that weaves a whimsical tale of floating down the Mississippi River with Mark Twain and Harry Truman, fishing for secrets and swapping stories. One piece of trivia that stands out is the song’s nod to Mark Twain, with a cover photo of the author featured on the 1987 vinyl single release, tying the song’s storytelling to Twain’s literary legacy. The lyrics, like much of Walkenhorst’s work, blend sharp wit with social commentary, a hallmark of the band’s style that earned them praise from none other than Stephen King, who quoted their lyrics in his novels The Tommyknockers and Gerald’s Game. Fans on the The Rainmakers Facebook group often share how Downstream captures the band’s knack for crafting vivid, narrative-driven songs that feel like a journey through America’s heartland.

Another tidbit about Downstream comes from its cultural resonance in live performances. The Rainmakers, known for their electrifying shows, have a strong following in Norway, where they recorded a live album in Oslo. Posts on The Rainmakers’ X account highlight how European audiences, particularly in Scandinavia, embraced the song’s free-spirited vibe, with its imagery of rivers and open-ended journeys resonating deeply. A fan on the official Rainmakers Facebook page once shared a story about hearing Downstream at a Kansas City gig, describing how the crowd sang along to the chorus, creating a communal moment that felt like “floating downstream together.” The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend playful storytelling with a rootsy, guitar-driven sound that’s both timeless and distinctly Midwestern.

The Rainmakers got their start in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1983, originally as a three-piece bar band called Steve, Bob & Rich, named after its members: Steve Phillips (guitar, vocals), Bob Walkenhorst (vocals, drums), and Rich Ruth (bass, vocals). Their high-energy performances and witty original songs quickly built a loyal Midwest following, with fans packing local venues to catch their “energetic” and “fun” shows. They released an independent album, Balls, which caught the attention of PolyGram Records. Adding drummer Pat Tomek allowed Walkenhorst to switch to guitar and take the frontman role, and the band rebranded as The Rainmakers. Their 1986 self-titled debut, featuring Downstream, was a critical hit, with Newsweek calling it “the most auspicious debut album of the year.” The album’s success, especially overseas in places like Norway and the UK, where their single Let My People Go-Go hit the Top 20, cemented their reputation as a band that fused Chuck Berry’s guitar power with Mark Twain’s social wit.

Today, fans can stay connected with The Rainmakers through their official Facebook page, where they share updates on gigs and new releases, and their X account, which often posts about their live shows and interactions with fans. While their Instagram is less active, it occasionally features throwback photos and concert announcements. The The Rainmakers Facebook group is a lively hub for Zoo Freaks and other fans to discuss favorite songs like Downstream, share concert memories, and celebrate the band’s legacy. Fan sites like Last.fm also offer a space to explore the band’s discography and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new Zoo Freak, Downstream and The Rainmakers’ story are a testament to the enduring power of roots rock with a sharp, storytelling edge.