Rock Bottom

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Rock Bottom" by UFO from their 1974 album Phenomenon, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this hard rock classic. One fascinating piece of trivia about "Rock Bottom" comes from former Scorpions guitarist Michael Schenker, who co-wrote the song with vocalist Phil Mogg. Schenker described the track as a continuation of his work on the Scorpions' "Lonesome Crow," emphasizing its improvisational nature. He explained that the song started as a riff in rehearsals, with the band layering additional riffs until Mogg shaped it into a cohesive piece. Schenker viewed "Rock Bottom" as a "work in progress," even in live performances, where he would incorporate memorable solo parts while leaving room for fresh creativity, reflecting his evolving mindset as a guitarist.

Another intriguing story about "Rock Bottom" highlights its live rendition on UFO's 1979 double album Strangers in the Night, which Classic Rock magazine ranked as the #2 live rock album of all time, just behind Thin Lizzy’s Live and Dangerous. The live version, clocking in at over 11 minutes, showcases Schenker’s blistering guitar work and Paul Raymond’s thrilling keyboard effects, creating a high-energy climax. Fans on platforms like Songfacts have praised its intensity, with one calling it “probably the heaviest song ever recorded by UFO” and another hailing Schenker as a “teutonic god with his guitar.” Despite Schenker’s reported dissatisfaction with the live recording, its enduring popularity among fans underscores its status as a cornerstone of UFO’s catalog.

UFO’s journey began in London in 1968, when vocalist Phil Mogg, drummer Andy Parker, guitarist Mick Bolton, and bassist Pete Way came together to form a band initially called Hocus Pocus. Inspired by the space rock and blues-rock scenes, they adopted the name UFO, a nod to the unidentified flying object phenomenon, and started gigging in local clubs. Their early sound leaned heavily into blues-based space rock, but the arrival of Michael Schenker in 1973 marked a pivotal shift toward the harder-edged sound heard on Phenomenon. Signed to Chrysalis Records, UFO released their debut album, UFO 1, in 1970, followed by UFO 2: Flying in 1971, which gained traction in Japan and Germany. Over five decades, UFO released 23 studio albums, with hits like “Doctor Doctor” and “Lights Out,” selling over 20 million records worldwide and earning a spot as #84 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock.”

Fans can stay connected with UFO through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on music, tours, and band news. The band’s passionate fanbase, often active on platforms like Reddit, has kept the spirit of UFO alive, with some collectors cherishing rare vinyl pressings of Phenomenon. Dedicated fan communities also thrive on sites like Metal Storm, a heavy metal webzine offering forums, news, and archives where fans discuss UFO’s legacy. Additionally, UFO Band Fan Club on Facebook provides a space for devotees to share memories, photos, and updates, ensuring the band’s influence endures among Zoo Freaks and beyond.