"In the Hot Seat" is the ninth and final studio album by the English progressive rock band Emerson, Lake & Palmer, released on September 27, 1994. The album was recorded at Goodnight L.A. Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Keith Olsen. This release marks the band's return after a lengthy hiatus, featuring a blend of their signature progressive rock sound with elements of contemporary rock. The album received mixed reviews but is notable for being the last studio effort from the trio, concluding their influential career in the genre.
The making of In the Hot Seat was challenging for Emerson, Lake & Palmer due to health issues faced by both Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer. Emerson dealt with complications from an ulnar nerve condition, impacting his ability to use his right hand, which led him to record right-hand parts with his left. Palmer experienced carpal tunnel syndrome, requiring surgery to alleviate numbness in his fingers.
One standout track, "Daddy," was written by Greg Lake in memory of missing child Sara Anne Wood, aimed at raising awareness about missing and abducted children. The song generated $5,000 in royalties, which were donated to the Sara Anne Wood Rescue Center, a foundation established by Wood's father.
Additionally, the track "Street War" originated from earlier sessions Lake had with Geoff Downes under the name Ride the Tiger. It was reworked for In the Hot Seat with new lyrics and music, while the original Ride the Tiger project was eventually released in 2015.
