Still Young (Hey Kids)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the infectious track "Still Young (Hey Kids)" by Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, a song that captures the raw, youthful energy of rock 'n' roll with a nod to living life unhurried. This track, featured on their 2013 debut album Wild Child, carries a message of slowing down amidst life's rush, with lyrics like "From the school bus to Wall Street, we're all in such a hurry / Maybe we should slow it on down." In a 2020 interview with Music Musings & Such, Tyler Bryant shared that the song's energetic vibe makes it a standout for live performances, noting, "We go to town!" when playing it for crowds. The song's co-writers, Jaren Johnston and Andrew Ripp, helped craft its anthemic feel, blending bluesy swagger with a call to embrace good times and freedom.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song's place in the band's early journey. "Still Young (Hey Kids)" was part of Wild Child, recorded in just 13 days on analog tape at Nashville's Sputnik Sound Studios. The album earned a perfect 10/10 from Blues Rock Review, with this track contributing to its rebellious, youthful spirit. Fans on Facebook often cite it as a live favorite, with its driving rhythm and sing-along chorus igniting crowds. The Zoo Freaks tuning in are likely feeling that same electric vibe, as the song's message resonates with those chasing freedom and fun, much like the hippie spirit of THE ZOO radio station.

Tyler Bryant, the driving force behind Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, began his musical journey in Paris, Texas, where he picked up his first guitar at age six. By 11, he sold his Christmas-gifted dirtbike to buy a red Epiphone Les Paul, a bold move that set the stage for his future. Mentored by blues musician Roosevelt Twitty, Bryant formed the Blues Buddies as a kid, playing gigs across Texas. At 15, he started his first band and won the Robert Johnson Gibson New Generation Award for aspiring guitarists. His early influences—blues legends like Muddy Waters and Stevie Ray Vaughan—mixed with rock acts like The Black Crowes and The Rolling Stones, shaping his gritty, soulful sound.

At 17, Bryant made a pivotal move to Nashville to chase songwriting dreams, where he met drummer Caleb Crosby and bassist Calvin Webster. Together, they formed The Shakedown, later joined by guitarist Graham Whitford, son of Aerosmith's Brad Whitford. The band hustled hard, with Bryant famously posing as their manager to book gigs, a tactic that landed them slots opening for icons like Jeff Beck and Eric Clapton. Their breakthrough came with Wild Child, but their relentless touring with bands like AC/DC and Guns N' Roses cemented their reputation as a must-see live act. Bryant’s dedication to authentic rock 'n' roll continues to fuel their music, as seen in their latest album Electrified.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, connect with Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown on their Facebook page, where they share tour updates and behind-the-scenes moments with over 85,000 followers. Follow their Instagram for vibrant photos and stories, or check out their X account for real-time banter and music news. Fans can also join the Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown Fan Group on Facebook to swap stories and show love. The band’s raw energy and the Zoo Crew’s free-spirited vibe make "Still Young (Hey Kids)" a perfect anthem for the airwaves.