The Fools Celebrate 50 Years of Rock With Live Show at Samuel Slater’s in Webster
By-Hank Stolz
Photo-The Fools
Worcester, MA-The Fools have been making classic rock and roll for fifty years. This Saturday they will be at Samuel Slaters in Webster. Frontman, Mike Girard, joined the Talk of the Commonwealth to tell us about the show. Girad reflected on the Boston music scene of the 70s and 80s. How it was easier to be in a band then because you could play five or six nights a week with so many clubs in existence and how supportive radio stations like WBCN were for local bands that didn’t even have record deals. He said the band’s live shows were known for being theatrical and unpredictable, a style that developed from their very first gig when they had to fill three hours with only 20 songs. Girard said that he has always loved bands that put on a “show” like J. Geils and The Tubes. Their hit song “Psycho Chicken” came about when they were just goofing around at a pool hall and was picked up by WBCN after a member of the staff saw them perform it live and lobbied for it to be added to the rotation. “I personally feel it’s one of the stupidest songs ever written, but I’m kind of proud of that.” It was also picked up by the Dr. Demento Show. Despite the novelty nature of “Psycho Chicken,” the band successfully followed up with other songs like “It’s a Night for Beautiful Girls,” and secured a major record deal with EMI. After being dropped by EMI, the band started their own independent label, Ouch Records, which allowed them to release more music like “World Dance Party” and continue their career. Their contacts in the music industry allowed them to be among the first to launch their own label. A documentary about the band’s 50-year history is currently in production and is expected to be released in the late spring. The band’s audience now spans multiple generations, with original fans bringing their children and even grandchildren to shows.
Tickets for The Fools on Saturday, January 24, 2026, are on sale now at samuelslaters.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM; the show starts at 8:00 PM. Samuel Slater’s Restaurant is located at 200 Gore Road in Webster, MA, outside of Worcester and less than an hour’s drive from Boston, Providence, Hartford, and Springfield.
Worcester’s Dual Tax Rate and the Supermarket Debate: What’s Really Driving Business Away?
Is Worcester’s dual tax rate pushing supermarkets and other businesses away, or is the issue more complex? A Radio Worcester panel weighs in on taxes, economic health, and corporate decision-making.
Worcester At-Large Race Comes Down to 23 Votes; ICE Arrest Sparks Debate
Mark and Tom joined Hank and Ben to discuss the tight 23-vote margin in the Worcester City Council at-large race and the controversy over a potential recount. The group also examined the national attention surrounding a Fitchburg woman’s ICE arrest and the broader debate over immigration enforcement in Massachusetts.
The Rundown: Polar Park Payment Shortfall and Controversy Over Heather Prunier Story
The Rundown with Mark Henderson and Tom Marino examines Worcester’s ongoing Polar Park bond shortfall and the controversy surrounding Marino’s article about Heather Prunier’s abuse allegations — a discussion blending accountability, politics, and the role of local journalism.
Worcester Report Calls for Civilian Oversight Amid Skepticism Over Implementation
The Worcester Regional Research Bureau’s latest report recommends creating a civilian police oversight board. In this week’s Radio Worcester Roundtable, Tom Marino, Mark Henderson, Ben White, and Hank Stolz weigh in on whether the city will act—or if the plan will be diluted by politics.
Tom Marino and Mark Henderson Raise Concerns Over Worcester Police Drone Expansion
In this week’s Talk of the Commonwealth, Tom Marino (This Week in Worcester) and Mark Henderson (The016.com) tackled the question: does Worcester need more police drones? Both expressed skepticism, pointing to the cost and effectiveness of existing technology like ShotSpotter, which lacks independent, peer-reviewed research proving its success. Marino cited Chula Vista, California, where a drone pilot ballooned from $2,500 to a $1.5 million annual expense within three years. The pair also raised concerns about expanded surveillance and potential civil liberties issues. As longtime “City Hall Watchers,” they believe this proposal may signal the early stages of a larger, pre-planned rollout.
ABOUT
Discover the captivating world behind the scenes of local shows on Radio Worcester. At Radio Worcester, we go beyond just talking about what's happening in Central Massachusetts. We take pride in bringing you a uniquely local perspective on national politics, global affairs, and the rest of Massachusetts.
Our talented hosts and dedicated team work tirelessly to produce thought-provoking discussions, lively debates, and engaging content that truly reflects the pulse of our community. With an intimate knowledge of the region, our hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table, ensuring an authentic listening experience. Join us in celebrating the power of genuine conversations and the magic of community-driven radio.
Turn to Radio Worcester for the information you need to stay up to date on all things Worcester and central Massachusetts!
CONNECT
RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS
Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.