Too Hot to Handle

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the electrifying track "Too Hot to Handle" by UFO from their 1977 album Lights Out, firing up the Zoo Freaks in the audience. This song, a hard-hitting rock anthem, is a fan favorite, with its driving riffs and infectious energy. One juicy piece of trivia comes from a 2017 interview with UFO’s lead vocalist Phil Mogg on Classic Rock, where he revealed that "Too Hot to Handle" was inspired by the band’s wild touring days, capturing the chaotic, high-octane vibe of their live performances. Mogg described it as a “snapshot of being young, reckless, and untouchable,” which resonates with the song’s fiery lyrics about living on the edge.

Another tidbit surfaces from a 2020 post on X by @MoMetalTrax, who called "Too Hot to Handle" one of UFO’s peak recordings, alongside other classics from Lights Out like "Love to Love" and the title track. The post sparked a thread where fans shared stories of hearing the song live in the late ’70s, with one user recalling a 1978 London show where guitarist Michael Schenker’s solo left the crowd “absolutely gobsmacked.” The song’s enduring appeal is also evident in its use in media—an instrumental version kicks off Mark Madden’s radio show on WXDX-FM in Pittsburgh, as noted on Wikipedia, highlighting its status as a timeless rock staple.

UFO got their start in London in 1969, originally named Hocus Pocus, when Phil Mogg (vocals), Pete Way (bass), Andy Parker (drums), and Mick Bolton (guitar) came together with a shared love for raw, bluesy rock. According to their official bio on ufo.band, the band renamed themselves UFO after the iconic UFO Club, a psychedelic hotspot where they gigged early on. Their big break came with the arrival of German guitar prodigy Michael Schenker in 1973, whose technical prowess and melodic flair elevated their sound. Albums like Phenomenon (1974) and Force It (1975) built their reputation, but Lights Out in 1977, featuring "Too Hot to Handle," cemented their status as hard rock heavyweights, blending gritty riffs with sophisticated arrangements.

Fans can dive deeper into UFO’s world through their official channels: the band’s website at ufo.band, their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts keep the legacy alive with updates, throwback photos, and tour memories. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with fellow fans, the UFO Band Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant community where members swap stories, rare vinyl finds, and live bootlegs. Another fan hub, michaelschenkerhimself.com, celebrates Schenker’s contributions to UFO, offering insights into his gear and iconic performances. These platforms keep the spirit of "Too Hot to Handle" burning bright for old-school rockers and new listeners alike.