Stealin’

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin the classic track "Stealin'" from Uriah Heep's 1973 album Sweet Freedom. This song, penned by keyboardist Ken Hensley, became one of the band's most iconic tunes, but its journey to classic rock radio wasn't without hiccups. The lyrics, which tell the tale of a fugitive on the run after "doin' the rancher's daughter," stirred some controversy. That particular line caused a stir, with many U.S. radio stations pulling the song due to its suggestive nature, despite its release as the lead single for Sweet Freedom. This limited its chart success, peaking at #91 on the Billboard Hot 100, though it struck gold in New Zealand. Interestingly, the song's B-side, "Sunshine," was a fan favorite, with many arguing it deserved a spot on the album itself. The track's enduring appeal is evident in its covers by artists like Finnish band Karma in 1973 and Buffalo's Talas in 2001, showcasing its cross-genre influence.

Another tidbit for you Zoo Freaks: "Stealin'" was recorded at the Château d'Hérouville in France, a studio steeped in rock history but plagued by technical issues and quirky anecdotes. During the Sweet Freedom sessions, the band dealt with faulty equipment and even rumors of ghosts haunting the premises. Despite these challenges, the track captured Uriah Heep's signature blend of hard rock and progressive flair, with David Byron's operatic vocals and Mick Box's searing guitar riffs driving the song's outlaw narrative. Fans on Uriah Heep - The Official Uriah Heep Fan Club often cite "Stealin'" as a live staple, with its raw energy making it a crowd-pleaser at shows like the 1974 Shepperton performance.

Now, let's rewind to how Uriah Heep got their start. Formed in London in 1969, the band took their name from the conniving lawyer in Charles Dickens' David Copperfield. The group began as Spice, fronted by powerhouse vocalist David Byron and guitarist Mick Box, who remains the only original member still rocking today. They soon evolved into Uriah Heep, joined by keyboardist/guitarist Ken Hensley, bassist Paul Newton, and drummer Nigel Olsson. Their early sound, a potent mix of progressive rock, hard rock, and heavy metal, drew comparisons to giants like Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin. Their 1970 debut, Very 'Eavy... Very 'Umble, laid the groundwork, but it was 1972's Demons and Wizards that cemented their legacy with hits like "Easy Livin'." Over the decades, the band saw nearly 40 musicians pass through, yet their gothic-infused metal and relentless touring kept them a force in rock, influencing bands like Dio and King Diamond.

For all you Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out Uriah Heep's official website for tour dates and merch. Connect with the band on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates and throwback posts. Fans can join the vibrant community at Uriah Heep - The Official Uriah Heep Fan Club on Facebook or explore Uriah Heep Discography for a comprehensive look at their catalog, including rare releases and cover versions. Keep rocking, Zoo Crew!