If You See Kay

The song "If You See Kay" by April Wine from their 1982 album Power Play is a playful track with a hidden edge, as its title is a phonetic spelling of a well-known expletive, a nod to a literary device used by James Joyce in his 1922 novel Ulysses. Written by David Freeland and published by Mother Tongue Music, the song’s lyrics tell a story of intense infatuation with a captivating woman, blending hard rock energy with vivid imagery like “five inch heels” and “painted on satin pants.” The song was one of three singles from the album to get a music video, alongside “Enough Is Enough” and “Tell Me Why,” reflecting its prominence in the band’s early ‘80s push for mainstream visibility. While specific interviews or social media posts from the band about the song are scarce, the restored video on YouTube has been noted for addressing quality issues from older copies, showing ongoing fan interest in keeping the band’s legacy sharp. The song’s cheeky title and driving rhythm have made it a fan favorite, often sparking discussions on platforms like Reddit, where listeners try to distinguish it from covers or similar tracks by other bands.

Despite its popularity, “If You See Kay” didn’t chart as high as some of April Wine’s bigger hits, but its inclusion on Power Play, which peaked at #37 on Billboard’s 200 Album chart, underscores its role in the band’s prolific output. The album itself, released through Aquarius Records, marked a shift toward a polished hard rock sound, though it didn’t garner the critical acclaim of its predecessor, The Nature of the Beast. Fans on Last.fm still celebrate the track for its raw energy and suggestive lyrics, with some speculating about the real-life inspiration behind the song’s seductive protagonist, though no band member has confirmed such a story. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its availability on platforms like Lyrics.com, where fans dissect its words, appreciating the mix of humor and desire woven into the narrative.

April Wine began in 1969 in Waverly, Nova Scotia, when brothers David and Ritchie Henman, along with cousin Jim Henman and lead singer/guitarist Myles Goodwyn, formed the band. They chose the name “April Wine” simply because the two words sounded good together, a decision that reflected their laid-back, creative ethos. Starting as a bar band playing covers, they quickly moved to original material, signing with Aquarius Records in 1971. Their self-titled debut album that year included the minor hit “Fast Train,” which earned them a foothold in the Canadian music scene. By 1972, their second album, On Record, produced the Top 30 hit “You Could Have Been a Lady,” a cover of a Hot Chocolate song, signaling their knack for blending hard rock with melodic hooks. The band’s early years were marked by relentless touring across Canada, building a loyal fanbase that would propel them to international success with hits like “Just Between You and Me,” which made them the first Canadian band on MTV.

Over the decades, April Wine released over 20 albums, with Goodwyn as the driving creative force until his passing in 2023. The band faced lineup changes, with the Henman brothers and others cycling out, but Goodwyn’s vision kept them steady, earning them a reputation for electrifying live performances. Their induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2010 and multiple Juno Award nominations cemented their legacy as Canadian rock pioneers. Today, the band continues under new leadership, with fans still flocking to shows, as noted on their official Facebook page, where they share tour updates and tributes to Goodwyn. Their Instagram offers glimpses of live performances and vintage photos, while their X account engages fans with news and nostalgic posts.

Fan communities keep the April Wine spirit alive online. The April Wine Fan Club on Facebook is a hub for “Zoo Freaks” and other devotees to share memories, rare photos, and concert stories, fostering a sense of camaraderie. Another group, April Wine Fans, focuses on celebrating the band’s discography and live shows, often debating the merits of tracks like “If You See Kay.” While no standalone fan websites dominate, Last.fm serves as a digital archive where listeners track plays and discuss the band’s influence. Through these platforms, April Wine’s legacy endures, fueled by a gritty rock sound and a fanbase that spans generations.