Don’t Tell No Lies

The song "Don’t Tell No Lies" by Victory from their 1989 album Culture Killed the Native is a high-energy hard rock anthem that captured the spirit of the late '80s glam metal scene. In a 2013 interview with laut.de, guitarist Tommy Newton shared that the song’s lyrics, which warn against deceit and empty promises, were inspired by the band’s frustration with music industry executives who often made grandiose claims that never materialized. The track’s driving riffs and catchy chorus, penned by ex-Accept guitarist Herman Frank, were designed to hook listeners, and it became a fan favorite, earning airplay on MTV and radio stations across Europe and the US. A fun piece of trivia from a fan post on the Victory Fan Group on Facebook reveals that the music video for "Don’t Tell No Lies," featuring the band rocking out in a gritty warehouse, was shot in just one day in Hamburg, with lead singer Fernando Garcia improvising his wild stage moves to keep the energy raw.

Victory was formed in 1984 in Hanover, Germany, rising from the ashes of the band Fargo. Bassist Peter Knorn and guitarist Tommy Newton, both Fargo alumni, teamed up with guitarists John Lockton and Herman Frank, drummer Bernie Van Der Graaf, and later recruited American singer Charlie Huhn, who had previously worked with Ted Nugent and Gary Moore. According to their biography on Wikipedia, the band’s early days were marked by a relentless drive to break into the international scene. Recommended by Scorpions guitarist Rudolf Schenker, Victory signed a management deal with David Krebs, who also handled Aerosmith. Their self-titled debut in 1985 stirred mild controversy with its provocative cover art but helped them gain traction in North America. By the time Culture Killed the Native was released, the band had swapped Huhn for the dynamic Fernando Garcia, whose gritty yet melodic vocals, reminiscent of Tesla’s Jeff Keith, elevated their sound to new heights.

Fans can stay connected with Victory through their official Facebook page, where they share updates on tours and new releases, and their Instagram account, which offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of the band’s current lineup. On X, the band engages with fans by posting about their music and responding to fan questions. For dedicated supporters, the Victory Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant community where fans share memories, rare photos, and news about the band. Additionally, Encyclopaedia Metallum serves as a fan-driven resource with detailed discographies and band history, making it a go-to for diehard Zoo Freaks spinning "Don’t Tell No Lies" at THE ZOO radio station.