Tiny Demons (Featuring Steve Lukather)

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Tiny Demons (Featuring Steve Lukather)" by Todd Rundgren from the album "Hello, It's Me And My Friends" for all the Zoo Freaks out there. This track, a reimagined version of the original from Rundgren’s 1981 album "Healing," features the legendary guitarist Steve Lukather of Toto fame. In a Songfacts interview, Rundgren shared that "Tiny Demons" was born from a late-night session where he delved deep into his consciousness, treating the song as a thought experiment. He described it as an attempt to see himself in the mirror as if for the first time, exploring the subtle, insidious "demons" that live within us, unlike the grand, stereotypical images of evil. This introspective approach reflects the solitary mindset Rundgren embraced while recording "Healing," where he played nearly all the instruments himself.

Another tidbit about "Tiny Demons" comes from its cultural footprint. The song was featured in the first season of Miami Vice, in an episode titled "Little Prince," during a scene with a heroin user, adding a haunting backdrop to the show’s gritty aesthetic. The track’s inclusion on the 2004 album "Hello, It's Me And My Friends" is notable for its all-star lineup, with Lukather’s guitar work complementing Rundgren’s original vocals. Released by Cleopatra Records, this album reworks Rundgren’s classics with contributions from artists like Vivian Campbell, Edgar Winter, and Dweezil Zappa, making it a unique tribute to his legacy. Fans on Bandcamp have praised the album for its prog-rock renditions, with one reviewer, Rob St. Amant, calling it a “who’s who of prog and classic rock artists adding their own special ingredients.”

Todd Rundgren, born in Philadelphia in 1948, kicked off his musical journey in the mid-1960s with a psychedelic band called Nazz. As the lead guitarist, he showcased his searing guitar skills and wrote much of the band’s material, blending blues, hard rock, and orchestral elements. After Nazz disbanded in 1969, Rundgren launched his solo career, scoring a US Top 40 hit with “We Gotta Get You a Woman” in 1970. His 1972 double album "Something/Anything?" cemented his status as a pop-rock innovator, featuring hits like “Hello It’s Me” and “I Saw the Light.” Rundgren’s refusal to be pigeonholed led him to explore electronic music, prog rock, and even music videos, earning him a reputation as a “rock & roll maverick.” Beyond his solo work, he formed the experimental band Utopia and became a sought-after producer for acts like Meat Loaf, XTC, and the New York Dolls.

Rundgren’s official website, toddrundgren.com, is a hub for his latest projects, tour dates, and merchandise. Fans can connect with him on social media through his Facebook page, where he shares updates and engages with followers, or on Instagram, where he posts behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life and music. On X, Rundgren is active, often sharing thoughts on music and culture, like his 2021 post about the 40th anniversary of "Healing," encouraging fans to grab the limited-edition vinyl. For fan communities, the Todd Rundgren Fans Facebook group is a vibrant space where enthusiasts discuss his discography and share rare finds. Another fan-driven site, TRconnection.com, offers a deep dive into Rundgren’s career, with forums, discographies, and archival content for dedicated Zoo Freaks to explore.