Don't Hold On

The Zoo Crew is spinning the high-energy track "Don't Hold On" by The Rockets from their 1980 album No Ballads, a favorite among Zoo Freaks for its raw, bluesy rock vibe. This song, a standout on the album, is described as a "bluesy breakup song" that could have been penned by Allman Brothers' Dickey Betts, showcasing the band's knack for blending gritty guitar hooks with emotional depth. Produced by Johnny Sandlin, known for his work with the Allman Brothers, the track features a driving rhythm and sharp slide guitar, capturing the band's live-wire energy. While it didn’t chart as high as their hit "Desire," which reached #70 on the Billboard Hot 100, "Don't Hold On" was a fan favorite in the Detroit rock scene, often igniting crowds at venues like the Rainbow Room. A 2010 Facebook post from the band recalled how fans at a reunion show chanted for the song, highlighting its enduring appeal among their loyal following.

Little is documented about the song’s specific creation, but interviews with drummer Johnny "Bee" Badanjek reveal the band’s approach to No Ballads was to strip away softer tracks and deliver unapologetic rock. In a 2014 interview shared on the fan-run The Rockets Fans Facebook group, Badanjek noted the album was recorded in a whirlwind at The Record Plant in Sausalito, with the band fueled by the raw energy of their live performances. The song’s lyrics, urging release from a failing relationship, resonate with the album’s no-nonsense ethos, reflected in its title. Fans on the group page often share stories of hearing "Don’t Hold On" at Michigan bars in the early ’80s, with one user recalling a 1980 show where lead singer David Gilbert improvised a verse, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The Rockets, hailing from Detroit, were founded in 1972 by guitarist Jimmy McCarty and drummer Johnny "Bee" Badanjek, both former members of Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels. Their gritty, blue-collar rock sound was shaped by the Motor City’s vibrant music scene, where they honed their craft in dive bars and clubs. Initially, Badanjek handled vocals and drums, with McCarty on lead guitar, John Fraga on bass, and Marc Marcano on keyboards. The band’s early days were marked by relentless gigging at spots like the Rock ’N Roll Farm in Wayne, Michigan, building a cult following. In 1976, manager Gary Lazar brought in David Gilbert, formerly of Ted Nugent’s Amboy Dukes, as lead vocalist, and Donnie Backus took over keyboards, solidifying the lineup that would record their breakthrough self-titled album in 1979, featuring the Top 40 hit "Oh Well."

Their debut album, Love Transfusion (1977), failed to chart but earned them opening slots for acts like Kiss, showcasing their electrifying live presence. The Rockets’ blend of hard rock, blues, and a touch of glam, led by Gilbert’s flamboyant vocals, set them apart. Despite struggles with record label issues and lineup changes, their 1980 album No Ballads captured their peak, with "Don’t Hold On" embodying their defiance and resilience. The band continued through the early ’80s with albums like Back Talk and Rocket Roll, but by 2014, McCarty’s departure to rejoin Cactus signaled a pause. They reunited for shows in 2017, as noted on their Facebook page, proving their legacy endures.

Stay connected with The Rockets through their official Facebook page, where they share updates and nostalgia. Their Instagram offers rare photos and gig throwbacks, while their X account engages fans with Detroit rock history. The The Rockets Fans Facebook group is a vibrant hub for Zoo Freaks and longtime supporters, sharing bootlegs, memories, and calls for a proper No Ballads remaster. While no official website exists, the band’s social media keeps the spirit of "Don’t Hold On" alive, echoing the raw energy of Detroit’s rock heyday.