Summertime Girls

Kick back, Zoo Freaks, as the Zoo Crew spins the infectious "Summertime Girls" by Y&T from their 1985 album Down for the Count. This track, the band’s biggest hit, climbed to #55 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #16 on the Mainstream Rock chart, capturing the sun-soaked, carefree vibe of the '80s. Originally recorded as a studio track for their live album Open Fire earlier that year, it was so well-received that it became the centerpiece of Down for the Count. The song’s music video is pure '80s cheese: drummer Leonard Haze pops out of a garbage pile, vocalist Dave Meniketti and guitarist Joey Alves crawl from a cave, and bassist Phil Kennemore emerges from the sand after being detected by a metal detector. A crowd gathers on the beach, and four leather-clad women with chains steal the show, embodying the song’s playful, flirtatious energy. Fun fact: "Summertime Girls" found a second life in pop culture, featured in the 1985 sci-fi comedy Real Genius and the first episode of the HBO Max series Peacemaker, proving its enduring appeal.

Another tidbit from the band’s history reveals the song’s unexpected success. Dave Meniketti, in interviews, has shared that "Summertime Girls" was a departure from their heavier sound, leaning into a lighter, pop-infused rock vibe to chase the hair metal wave. Despite their frustration with A&M Records for not promoting it further—no follow-up single was released—the track became a staple on MTV and classic rock radio. Fans on platforms like Reddit call it a quintessential '80s anthem, with one user reminiscing about road-tripping with their dad to the song, cementing its nostalgic pull. The Y&T Fan Club on Facebook often buzzes with fans posting about the song’s catchy chorus and how it still gets them singing along, with some calling it a “guilty pleasure” for its pop sheen.

Y&T, originally named Yesterday & Today, kicked off their journey in Oakland, California, in 1972. The band started as a cover act, with Leonard Haze on drums, Bob Gardner on bass, Wayne Stitzer on piano, and Dave Meniketti joining as guitarist and vocalist. They got their name when Haze, needing a band name for their first gig, glanced at a Beatles album on his turntable—Yesterday and Today. By 1974, the lineup solidified with Joey Alves on rhythm guitar and Phil Kennemore on bass, and they began writing original material. Their early years were gritty, playing sweaty Bay Area clubs, and they built a reputation that later saw bands like Mötley Crüe and Metallica opening for them. A pivotal moment came in 1980 when they signed with A&M Records, shortened their name to Y&T (inspired by fans chanting “Y&T, Y&T” at shows), and released their breakthrough album Earthshaker in 1981. This set the stage for their hard rock legacy, blending bluesy grit with metal edge.

Today, Y&T keeps the flame alive, led by Meniketti, the last surviving member of the classic lineup, alongside John Nymann, Aaron Leigh, and Mike Vanderhule. They’ve sold over 4 million albums worldwide, and their music still resonates with fans globally. You can stay updated on their tours and news through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. For deeper fan connections, check out the Y&T Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can swap stories and celebrate the band’s legacy. So, crank up "Summertime Girls," and let’s keep the summer vibes rolling!