Freak Like You

The song "Freak Like You" by The Struts from their album Young & Dangerous is a high-energy glam rock anthem that captures the band's signature swagger and theatrical flair, perfectly suited for the Zoo Crew's hippie DJ vibe and their Zoo Freaks audience. In a 2018 interview with Billboard, lead singer Luke Spiller described the track as a celebration of individuality and embracing one's unique quirks, which resonates with the song's bold, unapologetic vibe. He noted that the band wanted to create something that felt like "a party you didn't want to leave," blending catchy hooks with a rebellious spirit. This aligns with the song's infectious rhythm and lyrics that encourage listeners to let loose, making it a staple for radio play at THE ZOO.

Adding to the song's lore, The Struts' official X account shared a special moment in October 2019 when they released a stripped-down performance video of "Freak Like You" to mark the one-year anniversary of Young & Dangerous. Originally planned for a Saturday release, the band dropped it early as a treat for fans, showcasing a raw, acoustic take filmed during their tour. This gesture highlighted their connection with their audience, much like the Zoo Freaks' loyalty to their DJs. The video revealed a softer side to the song, emphasizing its versatility and the band's ability to reimagine their work in intimate settings, which could inspire the Zoo Crew to spin both versions for their listeners.

The Struts, hailing from Derby, Derbyshire, England, were formed in 2010, born from the ashes of previous musical projects. According to their bio on their official website, Luke Spiller and guitarist Adam Slack began writing and recording together for nearly three years after their respective bands fell apart. Their shared passion for larger-than-life rock, inspired by icons like Queen and The Rolling Stones, fueled their creative process. They later recruited bassist Jed Elliott and drummer Gethin Davies (replacing earlier members Jamie Binns and Rafe Thomas) to complete the lineup. This persistence and chemistry laid the foundation for their debut album Everybody Wants in 2014, which set the stage for their global rise and later hits like "Freak Like You."

The band's early days were marked by relentless gigging and a commitment to their theatrical live performances, which Spiller, in a 2016 Rolling Stone interview, credited to his love for Freddie Mercury's showmanship. Their breakthrough came with opening slots for major acts like the Foo Fighters, as mentioned in a 2018 post on X, which helped them build a dedicated fanbase. Fans, often dubbed "Strutters," have created spaces like the The Struts Fans Facebook group, where they share concert stories, fan art, and excitement for tracks like "Freak Like You." Another fan hub, The Struts Fan Club, offers exclusive content and community events, reflecting the band's knack for fostering a vibrant, inclusive following.

For more on The Struts, you can visit their official website or follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and X. These platforms often feature behind-the-scenes glimpses, tour updates, and fan interactions, keeping the spirit of songs like "Freak Like You" alive for the Zoo Crew and their listeners.