The Zombies: 5 Things Everyone Should Know
After three decades of eligibility, The Zombies are finally, and rightfully, entering the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 29.
In honor of their induction, here are five things everyone should know about The Zombies.
They have the longest eligibility of the 2019 Rock Hall class
The Zombies were first eligible for induction in 1989. This year marked the band’s fourth time being nominated. They were previously nominated in 2014, 2017 and 2018.
Their first meeting place has a historical marker in the U.K.
The five original members of The Zombies first met at the Blacksmith’s Arms pub in 1961. In 2012, an English Heritage blue plaque historical marker was unveiled at the pub.
They appeared on the premiere episode of Hullabaloo!
The NBC variety series premiered in January 1965 on which The Zombies performed “She’s Not There.” Also on Hullabaloo! that night was Gerry and the Pacemakers and Woody Allen doing stand-up.
Odessey and Oracle is on many “Best Albums” Lists
The Zombies are best known for their 1968 album Odessey and Oracle, which is featured on many “Best Albums” lists including Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” and Mojo’s “100 Greatest Albums Ever Made.”
After their breakup, two fake versions of The Zombies were created
The band broke up about four months before the release of Odessey and Oracle. At the time, the band was unaware of their success outside of the U.K. with the single “Time of the Season.” To capitalize on the band’s popularity, a promotions company created two fake Zombies bands. One was based in Michigan, and one was based in Texas. The Texas version featured Frank Beard and Dusty Hill who would go on to join ZZ Top.
Erica Banas is rock/classic rock news blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.
