My favorite band! I’ve been a fan since the first album! 3.5 was their best album. Sadly it was too late. When I finally met them about 10 years ago I felt like an 18 year old kid. Such nice guys with so much talent!
This is, by far, my favorite video you’ve put together. Zebra is one of those bands you (me) had such high hopes for! I was 16 years old in 1983, having the time of my life. High school was wonderful, highlighted by all the great music I was experiencing. Lo and behold, I hear “Who’s Behind The Door?” Believe me when I say I was blown away! They had such a refreshing sound! Thank you for this video that took me down memory lane… ❤
I've been watching your channel for several years now professor and I'm finally gonna chirp in here. Thanks for covering my favorite band of the early 80's. I graduated in 1983 and Zebra was my fresh go to band of that era. I was fortunate enough to see them perform several times in the Boston area in night clubs. I actually got the band to sign the shoulders of my Don Johnson white Miami Vice style blazer at the Rathskeller! Man I wish I still had that but alas, many moves later I parted ways with that bit of nostalgia. Tragic story, the first time I was supposed to see the band perform was at the Worcester Civic Center. They were opening for Loverboy, promoting their blockbuster Keep it Up release. Another 80's favorite of mine. I digress, while on the road to the show, my 1974 Dodge Dart Swinger decided to throw a fan belt on the 495 as we drove up from the Cape. I can't remember the details but I managed to get the car to a garage and the shop was already closed. It was after 5 pm. Somehow I managed to get the owner of the shop on the phone, interrupting his dinner, and he came down to the shop and actually had a belt in stock and threw it on my ailing Dart! Well me and my crew blasted out on the road at break neck speed, for the slant six, and made it on time to see Loverboy take the stage, missing Zebra entirely. But because of that I made it a point to see them whenever they made their way up to New England. Wow, what a rush of memories. Three chords and the truth my friend. ❣️
I had forgotten about Zebra. I also graduated in 1983. And, in 1985, I returned from my first tour in Korea. I had no need for a car in Korea, but at Ft Campbell, KY, I need some wheels to get around. I asked around and found a guy from Pennsylvania that sold me his 1985 Dodge Dart Swinger. He even left in his Pioneer Super Tuner. I still have fond memories of listening to Deep Purple's Perfect Strangers in the Dart. Good memories.
Class of 82 but were are likely the same age! I was put into school early. I'm from Greater New Orleans so had the opportunity to have seen them numerous times over a number of years.
I know Zebra! One of my best friends was their tour manager for years, they are among his best friends and he introduced me to them. I said the same thing but they are happy and feel they had a good career. They started doing cover shows a half mile from my house and the whole neighborhood was saying, You HAVE to see this band Zebra! Then the debut dropped. Their fifth and final album is in the works. Guy announced the track list and said that Randy wrote the songs, did his part and dropped off the tapes to do the drums. 😃
For you Cobra Kai fans, there is an episode of Johnny Lawrence (S2 E8) where he wears a ZEBRA baseball style concert shirt. He's been interviewed saying when he auditioned for the original Karate Kid movie, he waited in his car and listened to Zebra's 2nd album to get psyched for the audition. So cool! I finally was able to get the same shirt this month at a show.
Absolutely love Zebra! "Tell Me What You Want" has always been a "go to" song for me if I ever needed a good rock fix. This band never lets me down. Awesome stuff! :)
Saw Triump in the 80s here In my home town. Have heard of RUSH but not sure about April Wine. There are lots of songs that I like/ liked but never knew who sang them and there were bands that had a great song or 2 but I didn't like the band.
WOW! I had to take a double take look at that thumbnail to make sure that was Randy and that it was a Professor of Rock video! Never would I have thought my favorite rock band would have been dedicated to an entire show of yours! I see Zebra every year a few times. Just saw 3 nights in a row of them here in CA a couple of weeks ago. They still sound amazing! I uploaded the shows to my channel. 3.V is an incredible album of theirs! Thank for covering ZEBRA!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Plus the one in the Jackson 5, brother of Michael. I'm not sure which one of the 2 other Randy's it was, but the IRS got confused and sent the Zebra Randy an audit, when it was to go to one of the other "occupation = musician" Randy.
For you Cobra Kai fans, there is an episode of Johnny Lawrence (S2 E8) where he wears a ZEBRA baseball style concert shirt. He's been interviewed saying when he auditioned for the original Karate Kid movie, he waited in his car and listened to Zebra's 2nd album to get psyched for the audition. So cool! I finally was able to get the same shirt this month at a show.
OMG! Just saw them last night in Jersey! They were awesome. Like 40 years never passed. Thanks for recognizing this gem of a band. They deserve so much more attention.
Growing up in south Louisiana in the 80’s I loved Zebra. I remember very well how they would frequently play small shows all over the state. Wow, so glad that you had this band on your show. Would love to hear an interview with those guys.
Who's Behind The Door is a great tune, and it's amazing how Randy Jackson is able to hit those high notes. Another band not getting their due. Thanks for the vid and story, Adam!
So great to see Zebra getting some love! Definitely one of my all-time favorite bands. Could hardly believe how good they actually were when I saw them live at Harpo's in Detroit in the 80s. Flawlessly reproduced the songs from their first three albums, THEN proceeded to play a 30 - minute encore of Zeppelin covers that would make any tribute band jealous. Incredible musicians!
I might be a Zebra fan. This episode opened my eyes/ears to the band. I can’t get “Who’s behind the door” or “tell me what you want” out of my head. I listened to the whole debut album today, a bit hit and miss, but those two songs are next level. They are SO GOOD! Under Appreciated? Well that’s an understatement.
I seen Zebra around a dozen times on the Long Island club scene as well as Lamour in Bklyn. They were absolutely electric on stage and they always packed whatever club they played in. Anybody who lived through the 80’s NY club scene knew just how great this bands live shows were. A well deserved shoutout from the Professor and another reminder of just how hard these bands rocked!
Adam, once again your driving us down a familiar road for me- Zebra is one of my favorite bands, when my buddy played me their first album back in the mid eighties- I was hooked- so hooked in fact, that ai tried and tried to play the intro to WBTD, and just couldnt pull it off- back then, there was no YT, but a chance meeting with Randy at a show in Houston mid nineties changed that- Randy was so helpful and nice- and after he showed me, even gave me his contact info- which I still have and we have gone back and forth a few times since- even got to revisit his last time here in San Antonio. They sound as great as ever. Thanks for the great episode!
As a native Louisianan and New Orleans born man my big sister Loved Zebra went and seen them multiple times and God rest her soul every time i hear them Journey, Joan Jett and a few others i immediately think of her! Thanks for reviewing this great band 😎😎
@ProfessorofRock I've seen them live dozens of times, and they are even better live. Check out the 1983 concert video at the Summit in Houston. It's available on RUclips and gives you a great feel how great they were live.
PLEASE showcase Bonham "Wait For You" from 1989. Now that song was incredible, since John Bonham's son, Jason, was the drummer. The production of that song still sends chills up my spine to this day!
Being from south Louisiana I was able to see Zebra once before the record contract as they were playing back and forth from New Orleans and Long Island. I saw them many times afterwards and they delivered some of the best live performances I've ever seen!!
Thank you for covering this band. Songs like; Who's Behind the Door, Wait Until the Summer's Gone, Tell Me What You Want, Bears, Children of the Heart, One More Chance, No Tellin' Lies... would all be rock staples if the greater public knew about them.
Thanks so much for highlighting this band. I remember buying there first album and it became one of my favorite albums. It still is after all these years. I always wondered why they were not huge. Absolutely great band!
I remember swinging over 100 feet in the air roofing singing along to this on a tape. People below I am sure thought we were weird but the 3 of us loved the album and played it a lot when it came out. Love Zebra, glad to see you do a show on them. Wish I had seen them in concert in the 1980s, I may try to see a show if they get any where close to here.
Never heard of Zebra until I saw this video. Don't think they were played on the radio much here in the UK. Just purchased the first album as an mp3 download. Fantastic, the album. Thanks for great videos.
Being MTV Generation and graduated in '85, I am one of those who can say "that was one of my favorite bands!" I still have 3.V in my favorites playlist and personally feel it's the best of the first 3. Prof I know you get props often for covering fan favs so let me say for this one, THANK YOU for exposing listeners to a great band they may not have ever heard of.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 They may have started in NOLA… We like to take credit for them here on Long Island! Lol. But thank you Louisiana for sharing them with us.
From NOLA for sure. Two of them were from Kennedy High School there. I can still recall the radio DJ’s announcing their next local concert with their first names only - Randy, Guy, and Felix” - because everyone knew them as locals. Great memories! I am thrilled Adam covered Zebra in this episode and he obviously has a high opinion of them.
Thanks greatly, professor!!! I would like to inform folks that just because Zebra "No Tellin, Lies" and "3.V" did not sell, they are definitely worth a listen. My favorite song is "He's making you the fool" on 3.V, and on the No Tellin' Lies disc, "Wait Until the summer's gone". Got to see them in Houston, several times. In the early 80s, they opened for Loverboy (what a great all around show that was). Also in the 80s, had seen Zebra in club venues. They never did disappoint. I hope this video brings awareness to a truly underappreciated and great band!
Just made my own post about Wait Until The Summer’s Gone! Straight up BANGER!!!! Actually listening to it right now. That guitar riff is just a hook you cannot get out of your head ! And I’ll never want to!
Kingdom come was a band that I thought sounded like Led Zeppelin, and loved their first album, I was how fortunate enough to see Zebra in concert and it was a great show. Love ❤️ the channel keep up the great work.
Thanks, Professor, for another awesome story and video. I remember being in high school and seeing Zebra on Mtv, back when the M stood for music - not melodrama.
I'm from New Orleans, grew up with these guys, played the same venues with them. The answer to your question in this video is that THEY NEVER LET GO OF THEIR INFLUENCES! When a band breaks on MTV and has a hit, you don't continue playing your favorite bands music. But not these guys. Every live show they played Led Zep! They had a hit on MTV but would never let go of their Led Zep act! Now Randy is a very talented musician, but at some point you gotta let go and focus on YOUR material. Randy has made a career of honoring other peoples music very well. I worked one of their shows in '88, five years after their MTV hit. After they played a set of their music, they came back to play a whole set of Zep! Who the fck does that? Zebra does! That's why they ended up where they are!
@jeanellechachere "Bedlam" was our band from '76 to '81. We played the same places as Zebra. They definately had their sh*t together. Their equipment was very well together. But, once you have a national hit on MTV, you've gotta stop being a cover band and focus on your own material. They never did that. I'm critical of them for getting that national spotlight and not giving up the Led Zep reputation. We would have killed to get that attention. My brother had written 6 albums worth of material when we started. We reluctantly worked up cover songs, but we started out doing all original. Now Randy is very talented but he is better known for guesting with an orchestra doing Pink Floyd or Zep rather than his own thing. I'm sorry but i will always be critical of them.
I knew who they were. I was 16 and 96 Rock WKLS Atlanta played “Who’s Behind the Door” quite a lot. Drove to a Turtles records in Morrow GA and bought the cassette version. Wore it out!
So nice to see Zebra get some spotlight, I loved all these albums when they came out and was always surprised they didnt get more attention but glad they're still going. I saw them last year here in LA and they were great! Randy still has those pipes!
Thanks for this episode! I have been playing with Randy for years! He’s an amazing musician! The whole band is awesome! Guy , the drummer has a very good RUclips channel on historic rock drummers. Guy is a fantastic drummer!
While Zebra was originally from New Orleans, they came to where I live on Long Island NY in around 1980 or so...I've been a huge fan since 1982 (I'm 58) and was the first person in my high school to hear of Zebra...I saw them live dozens of times over the years and my old band Cosmo's Moon opened up for many of Randy Jackson's solo acoustic shows between 2000 and 2014...Zebra still plays out occasionally and are still one of the best live bands out there...
YASSS! This song has been first, recorded off the radio, bought the album and cassette, replaced the album once, bought the cd as an import, and found it on napster, dl'd to every i-pod,ipad, and now resides in my spotify "most liked" list...Im 62 now, and have never stopped listening since the first time I ever heard it.❤
That's one of those things that makes me wanna say, "We were around at just the right time, weren't we?" It almost, ALMOST, makes it worth getting old now...
Two of my favorite bands while I was in high school in the early 80's were Triumph and ZEBRA. Fast forward to 1999 and I was very fortunate to start booking and promoting Randy Jackson and ZEBRA in Dallas/Fort Worth, St. Louis, San Juan (PR) and Rocklahoma (Pryor, OK). 25 years later I consider Randy, Felix and Guy some of my best friends. I look forward to celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the band next year!
I went to a record store today and picked up a copy of Zebra's second album. I get home, turn on The Professor and imagine my surprise when it was all about Zebra! Perfect.
Wore that ZEBRA cassette out in 1983! Saw them on Long Island in '83 and was fortunate enough to see them play that whole album again on 2023. Very underrated.
This. Was. Thrilling. I was getting ready to go to bed last night before deciding to watch one more RUclips video; I picked this one - not knowing who the band was. When Zebra's LP popped-up on my TV screen, I almost fell off the sofa. I grew up in Metairie, LA. (a suburb of New Orleans), and in my mid-to-late teens and throughout my 20s and 30s, me and my friends were obsessed with Zebra. We were all thrilled to get our hands on the first LP, and we'd all seen them live on many occasions - performing in the gymnasium of the nearby elementary school called St. Christopher (where we all also went to school). At the age of 13, they were the first band I ever saw live (performing with Journey at the Monsters of Rock concert in 1983 or perhaps 1984). To this day, at the age of 55, one of my all-time favorite songs (across all bands and musical genres) is a 7-minute & 21-second masterpiece on Side 2 of that first LP titled "Take Your Fingers From My Hair". It is so much fun to see them perform it live. If the second half of the song doesn't sweep you off of your feet - with the soaring vocals and drum fills and just the musicianship alone - check your pulse, you may have expired. Oh, how I love this band. Professor, thank you so much for this. It was greatly, greatly appreciated, sir. Keep up the fantastic work. :-)
My very 1st concert was 1987. The "I can't drive 55" tour by Sammy Hagar. The opening act was Zebra. At the end of the show, Zebras drummer was throwing drumsticks into the crowd. It was 4 inches away from me catching it when the crowd shifted attempting to catch that drumstick. It bounced right off my forehead...lol I wish I had remembered more of that concert. It was all just a blurr thanks to some Yukon Jack and the Devils Lettuce.
I've been a Zebra fan for 40 years. I always site the first album as the perfect album with no bad songs/weak spots. Super talented guys! Randy is a great guy and has found a way to still make a good living with music.
I really appreciated this video for reminding everyone how truely special Zebra was and is.there wasnt a night of the week starting in 1980 that my friends and I werent at My fathers place, Rumbottoms,Hammerheads ,the Savoy ,and of course SPEAKS etc etc etc checking out Zebra and their great partners in crime Rate Race Choir. Just saw Zebra last weekfor what feels like the millionth time at Mulcahy's and they sound as great as ever.
I have loved Zebra since their first album. I have all of their albums, and they're all fantastic. They're one of those bands like King's X, that should have been huge, but they weren't. They're still together but mostly play only on the east coast.
One of my favorite groups of all time. I never understood how they didn't hit bigger than they did. Lucky enough to see them on their 35th anniversary tour in 2018 in Orange County. I learned about them in a music store in Berea, Ohio. I overheard another customer asking the sales clerk for some suggestions. He loved Zeppelin, but they were long gone in 1983. The clerk recommended two bands for different Zeppelin facets: Fastway and Zebra. I also loved Zeppelin (my favorite band). I bought both bands first albums. Fastway kind hit on the heavier Zeppelin aspects. Zebra hit on some of the more progressive and even Beatles-ish elements. I instantly fell in love.
Fastway, was supposed to be the next great super band. “Fast” Eddie Clarke, recently departed from Mötörhead, Pete Way bassist from UFO & up and coming Irish Vocalist Dave King ( Now with Flogging Molly). The single Say What You Will, will remain one of my favorite ‘80’s ‘Hair Metal’ songs forever. Now for the Zebra portion of my post… One thing Adam. Bob Buchman was the Morning drive time, DJ & Music Director. Growing up on Long Island, we consider them OUR BAND. They may have been originally from NOLA, but they made their bones on the Long Island Club scene… and you’re correct that WBAB had a monumental impact on their success. After seeing them more times than I can count in legendary Long Island live music clubs ( My Father’s Place, The Stage Door, the Mad Hatter, and just so many others) they got a great break opening up for Blüe Oyster Cult on their The Revolution By Night tour, where I saw them at Radio City Music Hall. In the ‘83/‘84 tour. I’m sorry to ramble, but I graduated from HS in 1984 and the Long Island Rock Scene was just a massive part of my growing up. Especially Zebra, & Twisted Sister!! Thanks Adam. This was much more than just. Walk down memory lane.
BTW, No Tellin’ Lies was a tremendous disappointment, and while ‘Bears’ was certainly the most commercially successful song, Wait Until The Summer’s Gone is one BADASS ROCKER!! Gotta be honest, the lyrics don’t make a ton of sense, it this one is 109% BANGER!!!
Zebra was a definite favorite band to see down here in south Louisiana, I saw them close to 20 times in my high school years. Thanks for giving them the deserved recognition for their work. I think Randy would be a great one to do an interview with. Rock on professor! 🤘🏼🤘🏼
Thank You. You have no idea how much I wanted you to cover this song from Zebra. I wish my suggestion to you a couple months ago to do a story on this song instigated the development of this video. It would almost feel like I helped people who've never experienced this song to get a charge out of it like I do. I've loved "Behind the Door" since I begged my Mother to buy the tape "Masters of Metal" for me when I was 13. This video transported me back to a time when my Mother and I needed something to give us hope. It was a dark time for us and this is the song that lifted me the most which in turn gave my Mother strength as well. I so grateful to have this positive memory from my childhood. Rest in peace Mom.
@@jeffmills5827 I had the same one twice. I had mine for years and traded it for a Uriah Heep Abominog tape. Several years later I saw it in another friends tapes and recognized the scratches so I traded it back into my collection.
I'm from Long Island, and I still have my WBAB Homegrown album, as well as a WBAB shirt (Still never worn) that I got from the driver (Fingers). *The DJ's name was Bob Buchman
How about the Canadian band “Saga?” They also had a couple of hits I remember from the early MTV years “Wind Him Up” and “On The Loose” (IIRC) and then I don't recall hearing from them again.
Adam, you did it AGAIN. Looking back 30-45 years, I realize how fortunate I was to have the AOR station WLAV, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They played such a great variety of rock, especially, Michigan bands. What they REALLY did well was bring music to us that not everyone was listening to. Music by Marillion, Gary Myrick and the Figures and of course Zebra. I still remember fondly how popular Zebra’s first album was. Both main tracks had immense playtime. And then, they were gone. I still have my Zebra vinyl. I going go spend 40+ minutes reliving those days. Great episode, Adam! You nailed this one. ❤
I started seeing Zebra in 1987 when I was 18, the same years I started following RUSH. I'm grew up in the Lower Hudson Valley of NY. There was a short lived venue called "The World Stage" in Spring Valley that many bands played including Zebra around 1990. Zebra also played in Poughkeepsie at "The Chance." There is a really nice old bootleg of them playing their songs, along with RUSH, The Moody Blues, and Led Zep from "The Mad Hatter" in Long Island. They are still around touring as well as Randy Jackson doing solo shows. I have some old photos I took with them from "The World Stage" along with Chilly Willy, their Sax player who toured with them. Randy did many FB live shows in 2020 during the "Lockdown" daze.
I'll echo the many comments already made, but... Wow! So glad you covered Zebra. Many songs from all four of their albums are still heavy in my rotation. And, yes, I've seen them in concert twice, once opening for Loverboy and another time at a small bar in New Jersey. Thank you for covering them Professor!
No easy task! A running joke with my friend was wondering what the hell Randy was actually singing! The liner notes, if I recall correctly, weren't very helpful. And the second album?! Fahgettaboutit! It wasn't until I looked at a Japanese import of the 2nd album that I had any clue what the words were. And even the Japanese inserted many ellipses (...) because they didn't know what he was saying either.😃 The internet has ruined so many fun memories...
About to watch. I LOVE Zebra I have their first on vinyl and two others on cassette. Their releases are on Apple Music if U want more! The vocals DO take adjustment of your ear, in an "early Geddy Lee" kinda way. And now to bask. BIG THX Prof!!!😀
3.V is an amazing album and I think the band did a great job with the production. Although the debut gets all the credit, 3.V is my favorite. Just my opinion. Have seen them many, many times since '85. Lucky to live in New Jersey so plenty of opportunities...
OMG another band that were highly underrated. All 3 of there albums were masterpieces. Not a lot of my friends were really into them but that was just fine with me. They were my band and I loved it that way. My brother's then gf was the one who introduced this impressionable young man. My mind just exploded. They were one of the greatest unheard bands out there. Thank you, Adam. When you pull out stories like this I feel so young again.
Another home run, Professor! This one takes me back for sure! I was 19 YO in 1983 when this album came out...and it was immediately one of my favorites! The 2 tracks you featured here are still on my most-listened-to playlist. It's sad that Zebra never achieved the greatness that their debut offering suggested was in store for them!
I first discovered Zebra with their video for Wait Until the Summer’s Gone and have been a fan ever since. This is one of many groups I’ve shared with people over the years that didn’t seem to go anywhere. I also felt like they should’ve been bigger than they were. I feel the same way about groups like Dirty Looks and Isle of Q among so many others. Isle of Q had one of the strongest debut albums I’ve ever heard, then they disappeared. My understanding (not sure if it’s true) was that they didn’t get any support from their record label (Universal Records). They have stuff that can be found on RUclips and a Facebook page and seem to exist in some capacity, but have never released another album since. A real tragedy. Not only was the music well written and performed (including incredible lead vocals), but the lyrics were well written and thought provoking. In short, they were a "total package." I would love to see a video on these guys as well as some of the other bands that share a similar fate. Thanks for what you do Prof!
I've seen Zebra more than any other band in my concert going life. They never disappointed me and although they weren't playing big venues, they frequently reminded me of how great they sounded and how fun their concerts were to attend. I've been lucky enough to meet Randy after shows (even sharing breakfasts with a group of his friends including the local promoter who brought them to Dallas so often). He's a true gentleman and friendly person. To top it off, Randy, Felix Hanneman & Guy Gelso are fantastic musicians. Thanks for this video.
I'm from Lawnguyland NY, I remember the very heavy marketing for them, it seemed every weekend everywhere. Never saw them as it wasn't what I was into at the time, but I surely remember their presence.
I wish I'd heard them. As much as I love Zeppelin and Rush,to have more great music along those lines would be more than fabulous. Thanks for introducing us.
Thank you for doing this story, I remember hearing them as a kid and they impressed me, but you just didn’t hear them much out here in California. We didn’t have the internet to look them up.
Here's my Zebra story. Our local station was known for playing deep tracks and this album had so many that were played. As a teen I had to spend my allowance money on their first album. Played it ALL the time. I then got to see them in 1983, at my local Six Flags. It was great because I was able to get close. After the show, I bought my second concert shirt. I kept (and wore) that shirt up until just a few years ago. I have to chuckle when I see teenagers with concert shirts from the 70s and 80s because it's nowhere near appreciated as having to go to a show to get the shirt. Anyway, loved that album and probably the La La Song was one of my favorites. Thanks for the vid from a lesser known band.
Their 3rd album was always my favorite. I never realized it sold so few copies. Their fourth record I could never get into (and I still keep trying) but it fails to connect with me. The live album Zebra Live sounds great still. Plus it has a great cover of The Ocean.
First time I have ever heard anyone, other than me and my childhood friend Ron, talk about Zebra. Good to hear from other people who enjoy them. I never, ever thought of them as similar to LZ or Rush. Those comparisons seem weird to me. They don't sound anything like LZ or Rush. I'm baffled anyone would even think that.
I remember their song "Who's Behind the Door" very well because I had a cassette with a variety of rock songs from the 80's and that was one of the songs on it. I don't remember the actual name of that compilation but I listened to it all the time...great song!
I had the same cassette! It was a K-Tel Masters of Metal release. Other artists included Black Sabbath, Rush, Rainbow and Twisted Sister. Hadn't thought about this tape in years!
As 18 when I first worked at a music store in 2000 at the beginning of the end of physical media. We sold large amounts of import CD's. Zebra was one of the most asked for bands. Even paying 30$ for Japanese imports. That's why I love your videos. It takes me back to being a kid selling imports to older coustimers. Thanks for being you and helping me learn more. 🤘
This video is a fine example of why I keep coming back to this channel! thanks a billion for this! I've been a fan of Zebra since the beginning. Not enough said about them, Thanks again!
Om waiting for the Prof to discover April Wine. Sign Of The Gypsy Queen Just Between You and Me I Wanna Rock Enough Is Enough Some tunes in the top 40 and a couple in the top 10. Had an MTV video.😊
Growing up in the 70's and 80's in the Jackson, Mississippi area, Zebra was a frequent flyer to some local bars, namely Town Creek Saloon. I saw them several times in the mid 80s there as well as another New Orleans band, Lillian Axe.
I think you’re right. Something sounded off about the name. Bob pushed their music so hard at that station. We saw them every chance we got. I always felt that Guy was a “mini” version of Neil 🤘
Well Professor, you finally did it doing an episode about a band I never heard of. Growing up in the 70’s, I usually know every somewhat obscure act you report on but I never heard of Zebra.
I got that first album as a 8 year old on vinyl. It was like a new door being opened, making me wonder what else was out there. I felt a connected experience and reverence from you throughout this video (definitely the first I've seen on Zebra). As I grew older, as the 80s unfolded, I always wondered what happened. Cheers and thank you.
Poll: Who is your pick for the most UNDER APPRECIATED or OVER LOOKED ARTIST or BAND of the rock era?
Tora Tora they did 'walking shoes"
Big Country
Air Supply! Too many people make fun of them!
UFO
Detective
Fastway
Waysted (RIP Pete Way)
707
Iced Earth
Weird Al...oh besides him......Dick Dale.
My favorite band! I’ve been a fan since the first album! 3.5 was their best album. Sadly it was too late. When I finally met them about 10 years ago I felt like an 18 year old kid. Such nice guys with so much talent!
This is, by far, my favorite video you’ve put together. Zebra is one of those bands you (me) had such high hopes for! I was 16 years old in 1983, having the time of my life. High school was wonderful, highlighted by all the great music I was experiencing. Lo and behold, I hear “Who’s Behind The Door?” Believe me when I say I was blown away! They had such a refreshing sound! Thank you for this video that took me down memory lane… ❤
Same
Same
I've been watching your channel for several years now professor and I'm finally gonna chirp in here. Thanks for covering my favorite band of the early 80's. I graduated in 1983 and Zebra was my fresh go to band of that era. I was fortunate enough to see them perform several times in the Boston area in night clubs. I actually got the band to sign the shoulders of my Don Johnson white Miami Vice style blazer at the Rathskeller! Man I wish I still had that but alas, many moves later I parted ways with that bit of nostalgia. Tragic story, the first time I was supposed to see the band perform was at the Worcester Civic Center. They were opening for Loverboy, promoting their blockbuster Keep it Up release. Another 80's favorite of mine. I digress, while on the road to the show, my 1974 Dodge Dart Swinger decided to throw a fan belt on the 495 as we drove up from the Cape. I can't remember the details but I managed to get the car to a garage and the shop was already closed. It was after 5 pm. Somehow I managed to get the owner of the shop on the phone, interrupting his dinner, and he came down to the shop and actually had a belt in stock and threw it on my ailing Dart! Well me and my crew blasted out on the road at break neck speed, for the slant six, and made it on time to see Loverboy take the stage, missing Zebra entirely. But because of that I made it a point to see them whenever they made their way up to New England. Wow, what a rush of memories. Three chords and the truth my friend. ❣️
That's one hell of a chirp!
I had forgotten about Zebra. I also graduated in 1983. And, in 1985, I returned from my first tour in Korea. I had no need for a car in Korea, but at Ft Campbell, KY, I need some wheels to get around. I asked around and found a guy from Pennsylvania that sold me his 1985 Dodge Dart Swinger. He even left in his Pioneer Super Tuner. I still have fond memories of listening to Deep Purple's Perfect Strangers in the Dart. Good memories.
@@flyonwall360lucky bastard! Not just the Dart with the slant six, but that super tuner!!!
Class of 82 but were are likely the same age! I was put into school early. I'm from Greater New Orleans so had the opportunity to have seen them numerous times over a number of years.
Class of ‘80 here - Great Story!!!
Yes! You rock Professor! I can't believe you finally brought Zebra to the show. Thank you!
Zebra still toured last few years, vocals still amazing by the way, BC Rich Bich player too!
I know Zebra! One of my best friends was their tour manager for years, they are among his best friends and he introduced me to them. I said the same thing but they are happy and feel they had a good career. They started doing cover shows a half mile from my house and the whole neighborhood was saying, You HAVE to see this band Zebra! Then the debut dropped. Their fifth and final album is in the works. Guy announced the track list and said that Randy wrote the songs, did his part and dropped off the tapes to do the drums. 😃
It’s a shame Randy dropped off, now I’m worried about his health.
For you Cobra Kai fans, there is an episode of Johnny Lawrence (S2 E8) where he wears a ZEBRA baseball style concert shirt. He's been interviewed saying when he auditioned for the original Karate Kid movie, he waited in his car and listened to Zebra's 2nd album to get psyched for the audition. So cool! I finally was able to get the same shirt this month at a show.
Absolutely love Zebra! "Tell Me What You Want" has always been a "go to" song for me if I ever needed a good rock fix. This band never lets me down. Awesome stuff! :)
Very cool!
I've never heard of them until today. 🤔
@@BillGraper - oh you should definitely check out their 1983 Self-Titled album. there isn't a weak song on it. classic!
@@BillGraper try to find their Live album. It's brilliant from start to finish
Who's behind the door is my favorite and fitting for the times ..
Love the mention of Triumph ❤. Another underrated iconic Canadian 🇨🇦 band. Like Rush🇨🇦, a 3 piece force of sound.
April Wine as well (another Canadian Rocking combo)!
@@JamminClemmonsHarem Scarem.😊
Triumph, April Wine and Rush. 3 of the greatest gifts our northern bothers and sisters have given us. Let’s ROCK
Saw Triump in the 80s here In my home town. Have heard of RUSH but not sure about April Wine. There are lots of songs that I like/ liked but never knew who sang them and there were bands that had a great song or 2 but I didn't like the band.
Wow, 62 years old and I'd never heard of this group. I'll check them out. Great video! 😊
Do it!
Same age and I never heard of them either. But I'm listening.
I remember them barely. They are listed as being on tour. They will be in Charlotte next month, maybe I'll go?
☕️☕️🎶🎵🎶
Never heard of them either. I’m 70 so maybe my memory is fading. 😏
54 here. This is my first time hearing of em too!
WOW! I had to take a double take look at that thumbnail to make sure that was Randy and that it was a Professor of Rock video! Never would I have thought my favorite rock band would have been dedicated to an entire show of yours! I see Zebra every year a few times. Just saw 3 nights in a row of them here in CA a couple of weeks ago. They still sound amazing! I uploaded the shows to my channel. 3.V is an incredible album of theirs! Thank for covering ZEBRA!
Rock on!
@@ProfessorofRock Oh, and I just noticed a clip of my video being used, shot at the Whisky A Go Go 21:50 So cool!!
His name is Randy Jackson. That’s so funny to me, given that there’s a more famous one from American Idol.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Plus the one in the Jackson 5, brother of Michael. I'm not sure which one of the 2 other Randy's it was, but the IRS got confused and sent the Zebra Randy an audit, when it was to go to one of the other "occupation = musician" Randy.
For you Cobra Kai fans, there is an episode of Johnny Lawrence (S2 E8) where he wears a ZEBRA baseball style concert shirt. He's been interviewed saying when he auditioned for the original Karate Kid movie, he waited in his car and listened to Zebra's 2nd album to get psyched for the audition. So cool! I finally was able to get the same shirt this month at a show.
OMG! Just saw them last night in Jersey! They were awesome. Like 40 years never passed. Thanks for recognizing this gem of a band. They deserve so much more attention.
That's awesome! :)
Starland ballroom?
I saw them in '85 It's pretty cool they are still out there delivering the goods
The Newton show? Wish I was there! Close to my hometown. But I got to see them 3 nights in a row here in CA this month. They still ROCK!
I just saw them in Newton last night also. Fantastic show.
“Who’s behind the Door,” and “Tell me what you want” are as good as any two songs any rock band ever put out.
Saw them in concert, Pittsburgh Civic Arena Sep 9th 1983.
Wait until the summers gone!!!!
"La La Song" live was the jam.
I've often felt like I was the only person who knew of this amazing band. Thank you for doing a segment on them!!!!
Shoot I was into this band when they first started in the late 70s
Growing up in south Louisiana in the 80’s I loved Zebra. I remember very well how they would frequently play small shows all over the state.
Wow, so glad that you had this band on your show. Would love to hear an interview with those guys.
same!!
Tipitina's & Riverboat President!!!
love em!!
*i have a table & 4 tix for the Zebra show this coming wknd in Buford GA!! cant wait
@@ryanrisley4765 The Riverboat was the best!!!
! ZEBRA, This was one of my favorite records during highschool. Actually cassette tape, played often and loudly in the old '78 Accord.
Very cool! Did you ever catch them live?
Favorite song?
Arabian Nights is awesome 👏
Who's Behind The Door is a great tune, and it's amazing how Randy Jackson is able to hit those high notes. Another band not getting their due. Thanks for the vid and story, Adam!
He's pretty amazing!
I wonder if Zebra was an influence for Mark Slaughter? I can definitely hear it.
He has such a great falsetto.
So great to see Zebra getting some love! Definitely one of my all-time favorite bands. Could hardly believe how good they actually were when I saw them live at Harpo's in Detroit in the 80s. Flawlessly reproduced the songs from their first three albums, THEN proceeded to play a 30 - minute encore of Zeppelin covers that would make any tribute band jealous. Incredible musicians!
I might be a Zebra fan. This episode opened my eyes/ears to the band. I can’t get “Who’s behind the door” or “tell me what you want” out of my head. I listened to the whole debut album today, a bit hit and miss, but those two songs are next level. They are SO GOOD! Under Appreciated? Well that’s an understatement.
I seen Zebra around a dozen times on the Long Island club scene as well as Lamour in Bklyn. They were absolutely electric on stage and they always packed whatever club they played in. Anybody who lived through the 80’s NY club scene knew just how great this bands live shows were. A well deserved shoutout from the Professor and another reminder of just how hard these bands rocked!
Saw them....not seen them.
Yes! You finally touched on America's greatest unknown band IMO
Who's Behind the Door was stuck in my head for months, in 1983.
Such a great song!
I initially didn't care for the song. but it grew on me.
Been stuck in my head for decades…
That song is so COMPLEX yet the melody is so memorable.
That song was my only exposure to them, and it was on one of those compilation albums.
One of my favorite debut albums by any band. I’ve played it a million times and still get excited when listening to it!!
Adam, once again your driving us down a familiar road for me- Zebra is one of my favorite bands, when my buddy played me their first album back in the mid eighties- I was hooked- so hooked in fact, that ai tried and tried to play the intro to WBTD, and just couldnt pull it off- back then, there was no YT, but a chance meeting with Randy at a show in Houston mid nineties changed that- Randy was so helpful and nice- and after he showed me, even gave me his contact info- which I still have and we have gone back and forth a few times since- even got to revisit his last time here in San Antonio. They sound as great as ever. Thanks for the great episode!
As a native Louisianan and New Orleans born man my big sister Loved Zebra went and seen them multiple times and God rest her soul every time i hear them Journey, Joan Jett and a few others i immediately think of her! Thanks for reviewing this great band 😎😎
That first Zebra album is great! I still listen to it.
Did you ever see them live?
@ProfessorofRock I've seen them live dozens of times, and they are even better live. Check out the 1983 concert video at the Summit in Houston. It's available on RUclips and gives you a great feel how great they were live.
Try to find the original independent recordings. Those two main hits are probably on a WBAB Homegrown album or two
I have the original vinyl with the cover in great shape.
PLEASE showcase Bonham "Wait For You" from 1989. Now that song was incredible, since John Bonham's son, Jason, was the drummer. The production of that song still sends chills up my spine to this day!
I love Zebra!! Thanks for featuring them
You got it!
Being from south Louisiana I was able to see Zebra once before the record contract as they were playing back and forth from New Orleans and Long Island. I saw them many times afterwards and they delivered some of the best live performances I've ever seen!!
Thank you for covering this band. Songs like; Who's Behind the Door, Wait Until the Summer's Gone, Tell Me What You Want, Bears, Children of the Heart, One More Chance, No Tellin' Lies... would all be rock staples if the greater public knew about them.
ONE MORE CHANCE F’n awesome!!!
One More Chance is much more than its short time denotes…
Thanks so much for highlighting this band. I remember buying there first album and it became one of my favorite albums. It still is after all these years. I always wondered why they were not huge. Absolutely great band!
I remember swinging over 100 feet in the air roofing singing along to this on a tape. People below I am sure thought we were weird but the 3 of us loved the album and played it a lot when it came out. Love Zebra, glad to see you do a show on them. Wish I had seen them in concert in the 1980s, I may try to see a show if they get any where close to here.
Never heard of Zebra until I saw this video. Don't think they were played on the radio much here in the UK. Just purchased the first album as an mp3 download. Fantastic, the album. Thanks for great videos.
Being MTV Generation and graduated in '85, I am one of those who can say "that was one of my favorite bands!" I still have 3.V in my favorites playlist and personally feel it's the best of the first 3. Prof I know you get props often for covering fan favs so let me say for this one, THANK YOU for exposing listeners to a great band they may not have ever heard of.
3.V Rocks!!
Everyone who's given it a chance seems to love 3.V!
I was so excited to watch this video. Zebra should have been huge. I nerded out so hard on this video and feel so validated. Thank you for this.
The moment I saw this title I was like this video has got to be about Zebra. We had a crew that in junior high that loved these guys
So cool!
I thought it might be about Kingdom Come when I read the title. They were so Zepp-like.
@@karmab4391 Kingdom Clone as we called them in the 80s.
As a Louisianan, THANK YOU!!!
I would have never guessed where they were from.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
They may have started in NOLA… We like to take credit for them here on Long Island! Lol. But thank you Louisiana for sharing them with us.
From NOLA for sure. Two of them were from Kennedy High School there. I can still recall the radio DJ’s announcing their next local concert with their first names only - Randy, Guy, and Felix” - because everyone knew them as locals. Great memories! I am thrilled Adam covered Zebra in this episode and he obviously has a high opinion of them.
Thanks greatly, professor!!! I would like to inform folks that just because Zebra "No Tellin, Lies" and "3.V" did not sell, they are definitely worth a listen. My favorite song is "He's making you the fool" on 3.V, and on the No Tellin' Lies disc, "Wait Until the summer's gone". Got to see them in Houston, several times. In the early 80s, they opened for Loverboy (what a great all around show that was). Also in the 80s, had seen Zebra in club venues. They never did disappoint. I hope this video brings awareness to a truly underappreciated and great band!
Wait Until the Summer's Gone has such an amazing groove to it.
"No Tellin' Lies" is great.
Just made my own post about Wait Until The Summer’s Gone! Straight up BANGER!!!! Actually listening to it right now. That guitar riff is just a hook you cannot get out of your head ! And I’ll never want to!
I saw the same Loverboy tour. I went because of Zebra and they didn’t disappoint. I almost walked out on Loverboy. 😂
I was probably in those crowds with you. I grew up in Angleton, just South of Houston and saw everyone that came thru from 1977 to 1995.
Kingdom come was a band that I thought sounded like Led Zeppelin, and loved their first album, I was how fortunate enough to see Zebra in concert and it was a great show. Love ❤️ the channel keep up the great work.
Thanks, Professor, for another awesome story and video. I remember being in high school and seeing Zebra on Mtv, back when the M stood for music - not melodrama.
3.V is a fantastic album! It's a damn shame it didn't get the airplay it deserved.
Agreed!
3.V in my opinion is their best album.
I also think 3.V is their best album although their debut album was fantastic!
I think the album has too much keys in production. But he's making you the fool is one of their best.
My fave album by them
I'm from New Orleans, grew up with these guys, played the same venues with them. The answer to your question in this video is that THEY NEVER LET GO OF THEIR INFLUENCES! When a band breaks on MTV and has a hit, you don't continue playing your favorite bands music. But not these guys. Every live show they played Led Zep! They had a hit on MTV but would never let go of their Led Zep act! Now Randy is a very talented musician, but at some point you gotta let go and focus on YOUR material. Randy has made a career of honoring other peoples music very well. I worked one of their shows in '88, five years after their MTV hit. After they played a set of their music, they came back to play a whole set of Zep! Who the fck does that? Zebra does! That's why they ended up where they are!
What band did you play in? I grew up in the 70's in New Orleans and went to Dominican?
@jeanellechachere "Bedlam" was our band from '76 to '81. We played the same places as Zebra. They definately had their sh*t together. Their equipment was very well together. But, once you have a national hit on MTV, you've gotta stop being a cover band and focus on your own material. They never did that. I'm critical of them for getting that national spotlight and not giving up the Led Zep reputation. We would have killed to get that attention. My brother had written 6 albums worth of material when we started. We reluctantly worked up cover songs, but we started out doing all original. Now Randy is very talented but he is better known for guesting with an orchestra doing Pink Floyd or Zep rather than his own thing. I'm sorry but i will always be critical of them.
I knew who they were. I was 16 and 96 Rock WKLS Atlanta played “Who’s Behind the Door” quite a lot. Drove to a Turtles records in Morrow GA and bought the cassette version. Wore it out!
Never heard of Zebra before this episode, and this is a band I would've loved. Going to listen to them on Spotify after this episode. 🤘
Do it!
@@christineml1476 you won't regret it. Their live album is fantastic!!
You will not be disappointed.
You should definitely listen to Who’s Behind the Door first.
If Zebra was the next Led Zeppelin, then "Take Your Fingers From My Hair" was their "Stairway To Heaven". Truly an epic masterpiece.
Great song!
I need to listen to that one.
Well stated. Truly an amazing song.... Especially the live version.
So nice to see Zebra get some spotlight, I loved all these albums when they came out and was always surprised they didnt get more attention but glad they're still going. I saw them last year here in LA and they were great! Randy still has those pipes!
Thanks for this episode! I have been playing with Randy for years! He’s an amazing musician! The whole band is awesome! Guy , the drummer has a very good RUclips channel on historic rock drummers. Guy is a fantastic drummer!
While Zebra was originally from New Orleans, they came to where I live on Long Island NY in around 1980 or so...I've been a huge fan since 1982 (I'm 58) and was the first person in my high school to hear of Zebra...I saw them live dozens of times over the years and my old band Cosmo's Moon opened up for many of Randy Jackson's solo acoustic shows between 2000 and 2014...Zebra still plays out occasionally and are still one of the best live bands out there...
YASSS! This song has been first, recorded off the radio, bought the album and cassette, replaced the album once, bought the cd as an import, and found it on napster, dl'd to every i-pod,ipad, and now resides in my spotify "most liked" list...Im 62 now, and have never stopped listening since the first time I ever heard it.❤
That's one of those things that makes me wanna say, "We were around at just the right time, weren't we?" It almost, ALMOST, makes it worth getting old now...
Two of my favorite bands while I was in high school in the early 80's were Triumph and ZEBRA. Fast forward to 1999 and I was very fortunate to start booking and promoting Randy Jackson and ZEBRA in Dallas/Fort Worth, St. Louis, San Juan (PR) and Rocklahoma (Pryor, OK). 25 years later I consider Randy, Felix and Guy some of my best friends. I look forward to celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the band next year!
I went to a record store today and picked up a copy of Zebra's second album. I get home, turn on The Professor and imagine my surprise when it was all about Zebra! Perfect.
Wore that ZEBRA cassette out in 1983! Saw them on Long Island in '83 and was fortunate enough to see them play that whole album again on 2023. Very underrated.
This. Was. Thrilling.
I was getting ready to go to bed last night before deciding to watch one more RUclips video; I picked this one - not knowing who the band was. When Zebra's LP popped-up on my TV screen, I almost fell off the sofa. I grew up in Metairie, LA. (a suburb of New Orleans), and in my mid-to-late teens and throughout my 20s and 30s, me and my friends were obsessed with Zebra. We were all thrilled to get our hands on the first LP, and we'd all seen them live on many occasions - performing in the gymnasium of the nearby elementary school called St. Christopher (where we all also went to school). At the age of 13, they were the first band I ever saw live (performing with Journey at the Monsters of Rock concert in 1983 or perhaps 1984). To this day, at the age of 55, one of my all-time favorite songs (across all bands and musical genres) is a 7-minute & 21-second masterpiece on Side 2 of that first LP titled "Take Your Fingers From My Hair". It is so much fun to see them perform it live. If the second half of the song doesn't sweep you off of your feet - with the soaring vocals and drum fills and just the musicianship alone - check your pulse, you may have expired.
Oh, how I love this band.
Professor, thank you so much for this. It was greatly, greatly appreciated, sir. Keep up the fantastic work. :-)
My very 1st concert was 1987. The "I can't drive 55" tour by Sammy Hagar. The opening act was Zebra. At the end of the show, Zebras drummer was throwing drumsticks into the crowd. It was 4 inches away from me catching it when the crowd shifted attempting to catch that drumstick. It bounced right off my forehead...lol
I wish I had remembered more of that concert. It was all just a blurr thanks to some Yukon Jack and the Devils Lettuce.
I just saw these guys LAST NIGHT In a small theater in NJ. They were incredible still!
I've been a Zebra fan for 40 years. I always site the first album as the perfect album with no bad songs/weak spots. Super talented guys! Randy is a great guy and has found a way to still make a good living with music.
I really appreciated this video for reminding everyone how truely special Zebra was and is.there wasnt a night of the week starting in 1980 that my friends and I werent at My fathers place, Rumbottoms,Hammerheads ,the Savoy ,and of course SPEAKS etc etc etc checking out Zebra and their great partners in crime Rate Race Choir. Just saw Zebra last weekfor what feels like the millionth time at Mulcahy's and they sound as great as ever.
I have loved Zebra since their first album. I have all of their albums, and they're all fantastic. They're one of those bands like King's X, that should have been huge, but they weren't. They're still together but mostly play only on the east coast.
One of my favorite groups of all time. I never understood how they didn't hit bigger than they did. Lucky enough to see them on their 35th anniversary tour in 2018 in Orange County.
I learned about them in a music store in Berea, Ohio. I overheard another customer asking the sales clerk for some suggestions. He loved Zeppelin, but they were long gone in 1983. The clerk recommended two bands for different Zeppelin facets: Fastway and Zebra. I also loved Zeppelin (my favorite band). I bought both bands first albums. Fastway kind hit on the heavier Zeppelin aspects. Zebra hit on some of the more progressive and even Beatles-ish elements. I instantly fell in love.
Fastway, was supposed to be the next great super band. “Fast” Eddie Clarke, recently departed from Mötörhead, Pete Way bassist from UFO & up and coming Irish Vocalist Dave King ( Now with Flogging Molly). The single Say What You Will, will remain one of my favorite ‘80’s ‘Hair Metal’ songs forever.
Now for the Zebra portion of my post… One thing Adam. Bob Buchman was the Morning drive time, DJ & Music Director. Growing up on Long Island, we consider them OUR BAND. They may have been originally from NOLA, but they made their bones on the Long Island Club scene… and you’re correct that WBAB had a monumental impact on their success. After seeing them more times than I can count in legendary Long Island live music clubs ( My Father’s Place, The Stage Door, the Mad Hatter, and just so many others) they got a great break opening up for Blüe Oyster Cult on their The Revolution By Night tour, where I saw them at Radio City Music Hall. In the ‘83/‘84 tour. I’m sorry to ramble, but I graduated from HS in 1984 and the Long Island Rock Scene was just a massive part of my growing up. Especially Zebra, & Twisted Sister!!
Thanks Adam. This was much more than just. Walk down memory lane.
BTW, No Tellin’ Lies was a tremendous disappointment, and while ‘Bears’ was certainly the most commercially successful song, Wait Until The Summer’s Gone is one BADASS ROCKER!!
Gotta be honest, the lyrics don’t make a ton of sense, it this one is 109% BANGER!!!
Zebra was a definite favorite band to see down here in south Louisiana, I saw them close to 20 times in my high school years. Thanks for giving them the deserved recognition for their work. I think Randy would be a great one to do an interview with. Rock on professor! 🤘🏼🤘🏼
One of my favorites as a teen during the 80's. I always thought they were criminally under rated.
Thank You. You have no idea how much I wanted you to cover this song from Zebra. I wish my suggestion to you a couple months ago to do a story on this song instigated the development of this video. It would almost feel like I helped people who've never experienced this song to get a charge out of it like I do. I've loved "Behind the Door" since I begged my Mother to buy the tape "Masters of Metal" for me when I was 13. This video transported me back to a time when my Mother and I needed something to give us hope. It was a dark time for us and this is the song that lifted me the most which in turn gave my Mother strength as well. I so grateful to have this positive memory from my childhood. Rest in peace Mom.
So sorry 🙏💕
Loved the Masters of metal cassettes, I had several!
@@jeffmills5827 I had the same one twice. I had mine for years and traded it for a Uriah Heep Abominog tape. Several years later I saw it in another friends tapes and recognized the scratches so I traded it back into my collection.
I'm from Long Island, and I still have my WBAB Homegrown album, as well as a WBAB shirt (Still never worn) that I got from the driver (Fingers).
*The DJ's name was Bob Buchman
How about the Canadian band “Saga?” They also had a couple of hits I remember from the early MTV years “Wind Him Up” and “On The Loose” (IIRC) and then I don't recall hearing from them again.
Huh?!?
'Why Don't You Find A Real Job' is from that album, too. It got some airplay where I lived at back then.
Love Saga
Adam, you did it AGAIN. Looking back 30-45 years, I realize how fortunate I was to have the AOR station WLAV, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They played such a great variety of rock, especially, Michigan bands. What they REALLY did well was bring music to us that not everyone was listening to. Music by Marillion, Gary Myrick and the Figures and of course Zebra. I still remember fondly how popular Zebra’s first album was. Both main tracks had immense playtime. And then, they were gone.
I still have my Zebra vinyl. I going go spend 40+ minutes reliving those days.
Great episode, Adam! You nailed this one. ❤
I started seeing Zebra in 1987 when I was 18, the same years I started following RUSH. I'm grew up in the Lower Hudson Valley of NY. There was a short lived venue called "The World Stage" in Spring Valley that many bands played including Zebra around 1990. Zebra also played in Poughkeepsie at "The Chance." There is a really nice old bootleg of them playing their songs, along with RUSH, The Moody Blues, and Led Zep from "The Mad Hatter" in Long Island. They are still around touring as well as Randy Jackson doing solo shows. I have some old photos I took with them from "The World Stage" along with Chilly Willy, their Sax player who toured with them. Randy did many FB live shows in 2020 during the "Lockdown" daze.
I saw them at the Chance many times. Great band.
I'll echo the many comments already made, but... Wow! So glad you covered Zebra. Many songs from all four of their albums are still heavy in my rotation. And, yes, I've seen them in concert twice, once opening for Loverboy and another time at a small bar in New Jersey. Thank you for covering them Professor!
Knew every word to every song on that 1st album. Legendary
Awesome!
I need to listen to more songs by them.
No easy task! A running joke with my friend was wondering what the hell Randy was actually singing! The liner notes, if I recall correctly, weren't very helpful. And the second album?! Fahgettaboutit! It wasn't until I looked at a Japanese import of the 2nd album that I had any clue what the words were. And even the Japanese inserted many ellipses (...) because they didn't know what he was saying either.😃 The internet has ruined so many fun memories...
@@vandal29 the sleeve definitely had the words
@@gr8lampini You are correct. I was thinking of the second album, which did not.
As a native Long Islander who grew up listening to (and seeing them live), I absolutely love you for bringing them to your channel!
About to watch. I LOVE Zebra I have their first on vinyl and two others on cassette. Their releases are on Apple Music if U want more! The vocals DO take adjustment of your ear, in an "early Geddy Lee" kinda way.
And now to bask.
BIG THX Prof!!!😀
3.V is an amazing album and I think the band did a great job with the production. Although the debut gets all the credit, 3.V is my favorite. Just my opinion. Have seen them many, many times since '85. Lucky to live in New Jersey so plenty of opportunities...
OMG another band that were highly underrated. All 3 of there albums were masterpieces. Not a lot of my friends were really into them but that was just fine with me. They were my band and I loved it that way. My brother's then gf was the one who introduced this impressionable young man. My mind just exploded. They were one of the greatest unheard bands out there.
Thank you, Adam. When you pull out stories like this I feel so young again.
Thanks for watching Erik!
3.V is a flawless album. That album is perfection.
Their first 3 albums are amazing.
I never heard of this band as a kid ! Interesting video professor! I’ll listen to their songs on RUclips
Go for it!
Another home run, Professor! This one takes me back for sure! I was 19 YO in 1983 when this album came out...and it was immediately one of my favorites! The 2 tracks you featured here are still on my most-listened-to playlist. It's sad that Zebra never achieved the greatness that their debut offering suggested was in store for them!
I first discovered Zebra with their video for Wait Until the Summer’s Gone and have been a fan ever since. This is one of many groups I’ve shared with people over the years that didn’t seem to go anywhere. I also felt like they should’ve been bigger than they were. I feel the same way about groups like Dirty Looks and Isle of Q among so many others. Isle of Q had one of the strongest debut albums I’ve ever heard, then they disappeared. My understanding (not sure if it’s true) was that they didn’t get any support from their record label (Universal Records). They have stuff that can be found on RUclips and a Facebook page and seem to exist in some capacity, but have never released another album since. A real tragedy. Not only was the music well written and performed (including incredible lead vocals), but the lyrics were well written and thought provoking. In short, they were a "total package." I would love to see a video on these guys as well as some of the other bands that share a similar fate. Thanks for what you do Prof!
I've seen Zebra more than any other band in my concert going life. They never disappointed me and although they weren't playing big venues, they frequently reminded me of how great they sounded and how fun their concerts were to attend. I've been lucky enough to meet Randy after shows (even sharing breakfasts with a group of his friends including the local promoter who brought them to Dallas so often). He's a true gentleman and friendly person. To top it off, Randy, Felix Hanneman & Guy Gelso are fantastic musicians. Thanks for this video.
I saw Zebra open for ZZ Top back in 1985. Impressive live band with an excellent drummer and talented lead man.
I'm from Lawnguyland NY, I remember the very heavy marketing for them, it seemed every weekend everywhere. Never saw them as it wasn't what I was into at the time, but I surely remember their presence.
I had what I assume was their debut cassette. It had “Tell Me What You Want” on it. It was great from what I remember.
Did you ever get to see them live?
@@ProfessorofRock no sir. I was only 13 and was not quite allowed to go to concerts yet. One.More.Year.😁
Never heard of this band. After watching this I put them in my play list. Thanx, this is why I watch you show.😎👍
I wish I'd heard them. As much as I love Zeppelin and Rush,to have more great music along those lines would be more than fabulous. Thanks for introducing us.
Thank you for doing this story, I remember hearing them as a kid and they impressed me, but you just didn’t hear them much out here in California. We didn’t have the internet to look them up.
Here's my Zebra story. Our local station was known for playing deep tracks and this album had so many that were played. As a teen I had to spend my allowance money on their first album. Played it ALL the time. I then got to see them in 1983, at my local Six Flags. It was great because I was able to get close. After the show, I bought my second concert shirt. I kept (and wore) that shirt up until just a few years ago. I have to chuckle when I see teenagers with concert shirts from the 70s and 80s because it's nowhere near appreciated as having to go to a show to get the shirt. Anyway, loved that album and probably the La La Song was one of my favorites. Thanks for the vid from a lesser known band.
Thanks for sharing!
Zebra! One of my favorite bands of the early 80’s, and still to this day.
Prof, you should also do a segment on the band Saga.
Their 3rd album was always my favorite. I never realized it sold so few copies. Their fourth record I could never get into (and I still keep trying) but it fails to connect with me. The live album Zebra Live sounds great still. Plus it has a great cover of The Ocean.
First time I have ever heard anyone, other than me and my childhood friend Ron, talk about Zebra. Good to hear from other people who enjoy them. I never, ever thought of them as similar to LZ or Rush. Those comparisons seem weird to me. They don't sound anything like LZ or Rush. I'm baffled anyone would even think that.
I remember their song "Who's Behind the Door" very well because I had a cassette with a variety of rock songs from the 80's and that was one of the songs on it. I don't remember the actual name of that compilation but I listened to it all the time...great song!
I had the same cassette! It was a K-Tel Masters of Metal release. Other artists included Black Sabbath, Rush, Rainbow and Twisted Sister. Hadn't thought about this tape in years!
@@jeffreykoger3978 yes!! I couldn't remember that name for the life of me...thank you!!
As 18 when I first worked at a music store in 2000 at the beginning of the end of physical media. We sold large amounts of import CD's. Zebra was one of the most asked for bands. Even paying 30$ for Japanese imports. That's why I love your videos. It takes me back to being a kid selling imports to older coustimers.
Thanks for being you and helping me learn more. 🤘
A couple of other 'Bottled Lightning' songs/groups:
Honeymoon Suite - I've Got a New Girl Now
Donny Iris - Ah, Leah
M - Pop Muzic
This video is a fine example of why I keep coming back to this channel!
thanks a billion for this! I've been a fan of Zebra since the beginning. Not enough said about them, Thanks again!
Om waiting for the Prof to discover April Wine.
Sign Of The Gypsy Queen
Just Between You and Me
I Wanna Rock
Enough Is Enough
Some tunes in the top 40 and a couple in the top 10.
Had an MTV video.😊
Thanks for the likes
Maybe get enough he'll notice!
THANK YOU! Zebra is one of my favorite bands from the eighties!
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Zebra is amazing!!
Glad you like it!
Growing up in the 70's and 80's in the Jackson, Mississippi area, Zebra was a frequent flyer to some local bars, namely Town Creek Saloon. I saw them several times in the mid 80s there as well as another New Orleans band, Lillian Axe.
I think you mean Bob Buchmann at WBAB (not Buchanan). Sorry to nitpick! Love your channel!
I think you’re right. Something sounded off about the name. Bob pushed their music so hard at that station. We saw them every chance we got. I always felt that Guy was a “mini” version of Neil 🤘
Well Professor, you finally did it doing an episode about a band I never heard of. Growing up in the 70’s, I usually know every somewhat obscure act you report on but I never heard of Zebra.
Wow! Today is your time to go down the rabbit hole. Start with Who’s Behind the Door
Cool T-shirt! Love your videos!
I got that first album as a 8 year old on vinyl. It was like a new door being opened, making me wonder what else was out there. I felt a connected experience and reverence from you throughout this video (definitely the first I've seen on Zebra). As I grew older, as the 80s unfolded, I always wondered what happened. Cheers and thank you.
I was born in 1970 , got to grow up with the greatest music in history. Zebra is one of the best bands ever