Kickin (Live 2011)

The Zoo Crew, those far-out hippie DJs at THE ZOO radioFamilySize radio station, are spinning the high-energy track "Kickin (Live 2011)" by Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown from their 2011 album From The Sandcastle for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This live rendition of "Kickin" captures the raw, rebellious spirit of the band, with lyrics like "I keep on kickin / Don’t try to tell me what to do / Cause I won’t listen" resonating as an anthem for those defying conformity. The song’s gritty vibe and Tyler’s blistering guitar work reflect the band’s roots in blues and rock, channeling influences like Jimi Hendrix and The Black Crowes. In a 2011 performance uploaded to YouTube, Tyler and drummer Caleb Crosby deliver an electrifying take at The Sandcastle, showcasing their tight chemistry and stage presence that have made them a standout live act.

While specific stories about "Kickin" are scarce, the song’s place on From The Sandcastle marked a pivotal moment for the band. Released in September 2011, the seven-track album gained traction when another single, "Shackles," was featured as an iTunes Discovery Download, and the album itself stayed in iTunes’ “Rock on the Rise” section for eight weeks. The success of From The Sandcastle led to opportunities like opening for Jeff Beck on his 2011 tour, where Tyler was personally invited by Beck to join him on stage for encores—a rare honor previously extended to Stevie Ray Vaughan in 1989. This exposure helped cement the band’s reputation as a rising force in rock, with critics praising their ability to blend classic arena rock with a modern edge.

Tyler Bryant, the driving force behind Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, was born to play music. Hailing from Honey Grove, Texas, he started playing guitar at age six, steeped in the blues of Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. By 11, he was jamming with veteran bluesman Roosevelt Twitty in a Paris, Texas music store, a moment that confirmed his destiny. At 15, he formed his first band, playing local gigs before a life-changing Black Crowes concert introduced him to rock ‘n’ roll. Inspired by bands like The Rolling Stones and Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, he moved to Nashville at 17 to pursue songwriting and form The Shakedown. There, he met drummer Caleb Crosby, and soon after, bassist Calvin Webster (later replaced by Noah Denney) and guitarist Graham Whitford, son of Aerosmith’s Brad Whitford, joined, completing the lineup. His talent was recognized early, earning the Robert Johnson Blues Foundation’s New Generation Award at 15 and a spot at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival.

Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown have built a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and electrifying performances, supporting legends like Aerosmith, AC/DC, and Guns N’ Roses. Their official website, tylerbryantandtheshakedown.com, offers updates on tours and new music, including their latest release, Electrified. Fans can connect on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and X, where the band shares behind-the-scenes content and engages with their community. Dedicated fan groups, like the Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown Fans Facebook group, provide a space for Zoo Freaks and other supporters to discuss shows, share photos, and celebrate the band’s music. For the latest on this rock powerhouse, these platforms are the go-to spots for staying in the loop.