Fresh Air Episode Summary: "Zombies Frontman Colin Blundstone"

Release Date: May 16, 2025

In this engaging episode of NPR's award-winning program Fresh Air, hosts Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley sit down with Colin Blundstone, the lead singer of the iconic 1960s British band The Zombies. Recorded in 1998, this interview delves deep into the band's formation, creative process, experiences during the British Invasion, and the lasting legacy of their music.

Introduction to The Zombies

The episode opens with a nostalgic introduction to The Zombies, highlighting their initial success in the United States compared to moderate recognition in Britain. Notably, their debut single "She's Not There" soared to number two on the Billboard pop chart in 1964, while it only reached number 12 in the UK.

David Biancooli: "Americans were right about the Zombies, whose first record, the still spooky 'She's Not There,' made it all the way to number two on the Billboard pop chart in 1964."

Despite internal challenges leading to their breakup five years after their debut, The Zombies left an indelible mark on the music scene, culminating in their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019 and a documentary titled "Hung Up On a Dream."

Winning the Decca Records Audition

Colin Blundstone recounts a pivotal moment when The Zombies won a local contest, securing an audition with Decca Records. The competition, held at Watford Town Hall, was a spectacle reminiscent of a football crowd, with 2,000 enthusiastic attendees supporting their favorite bands.

Terry Gross [04:07]: "The competition was held in Watford Town Hall... it was quite a sort of a wild place to play. And we won our heat... and then we won the final. It was a magical evening."

This victory was instrumental in propelling the band into the recording spotlight, leading to the creation of their first single.

Choosing the Name "The Zombies"

When asked about the band's unique name, Colin explains that it was a result of initial struggles to find a distinctive identity amidst numerous bands like "The Mustangs" and "The Sundowners."

Terry Gross [05:24]: "We were just trying to find something that no one else would have thought of. So we ended up as The Zombies."

The name was both an act of desperation and a testament to their desire for uniqueness in a saturated music market.

Defining the Zombies' Sound

A significant portion of the discussion centers on what set The Zombies apart musically. Colin emphasizes the band's distinctive sound, attributing much of it to the songwriting prowess of Rod Argent and Chris White.

Terry Gross [06:52]: "Our harmonies helped to make things a bit different as well. I think there were lots of things that contributed towards it, but the songwriting and the vocal harmonies..."

The incorporation of jazz elements, unusual chord progressions, and Rod Argent's classical training in the cathedral choir all contributed to their signature sound.

Recording "Tell Her No" and Song Insights

The conversation shifts to their hit "Tell Her No," where Terry shares an amusing anecdote about the recording session. Exhausted from prior recordings, she was awoken to finish the vocals, resulting in a memorable mumbled line that has puzzled fans for years.

Terry Gross [07:50]: "I was fast asleep when they finished and they woke me up to sing 'Tell Her No.' And there's this mumbled line in the middle because I was half asleep."

Despite her initial reservations, the song became one of their enduring classics, highlighting the spontaneous and sometimes imperfect nature of music creation.

Experiencing the American Audience

One of the highlights of the interview is Colin's account of touring the United States during the height of the British Invasion. The stark contrast between the modest venues in the UK and the massive, enthusiastic crowds in America left a profound impact on him.

Terry Gross [11:15]: "When we went to America, we were playing to huge audiences and very, very enthusiastic audiences that were screaming and rushing the stage."

This experience not only elevated their status but also introduced them to a fanbase that was intensely passionate about their music.

Band Dynamics and Challenges

As the band navigated success and subsequent struggles, internal dynamics played a crucial role in their trajectory. Colin reflects on how the band's grounded nature prevented individual successes from overshadowing the group.

Terry Gross [13:05]: "No one was allowed to get too carried away... we all still lived at home with our parents."

However, financial strains and diminishing returns eventually led to tensions, culminating in band members seeking new paths.

The Story Behind "Time of the Season"

Perhaps the most intriguing segment discusses the resurgence of "Time of the Season," a song that became a late hit despite initial setbacks. Terry narrates how Al Cooper of Blood, Sweat and Tears championed the track in America, leading to its unexpected success.

Terry Gross [07:29]: "Time of the Season had no right to be a hit, but I'm very, very glad that it was."

She candidly shares her doubts about the song during recording but acknowledges its pivotal role in solidifying The Zombies' legacy.

Reflections on the Band's Legacy

In closing, Terry and Colin ponder the what-ifs of The Zombies reuniting for the subsequent success of "Time of the Season." While hindsight suggests the possibility, practical challenges at the time made it unfeasible.

Terry Gross [28:42]: "With the benefit of hindsight, I think it could have been done if everybody had wanted to do it."

This reflection underscores the complexities of band dynamics and the unpredictable nature of musical success.

Conclusion

Colin Blundstone's insightful conversation with Terry Gross provides a comprehensive look into The Zombies' journey—from their humble beginnings and creative breakthroughs to their experiences with fame and the enduring impact of their music. This episode serves as both a tribute to their contributions to the music world and a nuanced exploration of the challenges faced by one of the 1960s' most beloved bands.

Notable Quotes:

• "Our harmonies helped to make things a bit different as well." — Terry Gross [06:52]

• "I think Time of the Season had no right to be a hit, but I'm very, very glad that it was." — Terry Gross [07:29]

• "We were playing to huge audiences and very, very enthusiastic audiences that were screaming and rushing the stage." — Terry Gross [11:15]

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the interview, providing listeners with a detailed understanding of The Zombies' history and legacy.