Take Me For A Ride

The Zoo Crew is spinning “Take Me For A Ride” by The Sheepdogs, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving with its Southern rock vibe. This song, part of the band’s 2024 EP Paradise Alone, marks their first release on their independent label, Right On Records. According to bassist Ryan Gullen in an interview with Americana UK, the move to their own label was about taking control after 20 years as a band, allowing them to stay true to their sound without chasing trends. The song itself, described as having a sprinkle of glam over its classic rock roots, became a radio hit in Canada, topping charts as noted by Billboard Canada. Its music video, directed by Mat Dunlap, was shot with a raw, retro energy, complementing the song’s throwback feel.

Delving into the song’s creation, The Sheepdogs shared on their X account that “Take Me For A Ride” was crafted to capture the live energy of their performances, a nod to their love for classic rock and roll. A fun tidbit from a YouTube comment by a fan highlights how the song’s infectious riff got stuck in their head after a live show, prompting the band to reply that they aimed for that earworm effect. The track’s success was immediate, with Billboard Canada reporting it as the most copied track by radio stations the week of August 23, 2024, a testament to its appeal among Zoo Freaks and beyond.

The Sheepdogs got their start in Saskatoon, Canada, in 2004, when Ewan Currie (vocals/guitar), Ryan Gullen (bass), and Sam Corbett (drums) began jamming in their teens, inspired by bands like The Allman Brothers and The Band. According to their bio on their official website, they honed their craft playing local gigs, building a grassroots following with their shaggy, retro sound. By 2007, they released their debut album, Trying to Grow, and gained traction after winning a 2011 Rolling Stone cover contest, the first unsigned band to do so. This led to a deal with Atlantic Records, but after several albums, they reclaimed their catalog in 2024 to go fully independent, as shared in a 2024 Americana UK interview. The current lineup includes Ewan, Ryan, Sam, Shamus Currie (keys/trombone), and Ricky Paquette (guitar).

For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect, The Sheepdogs are active on social media. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates on tours, new music, and behind-the-scenes content. Their official website offers merch, tour dates, and a newsletter for die-hard fans. While no official fan websites were found, the Sheepdogs Fan Club on Facebook is a lively group where fans share concert photos, discuss albums, and organize meetups, perfect for Zoo Freaks looking to join the community.