Sign of the Gypsy Queen

The Zoo Crew is spinning a classic tonight with April Wine's "Sign of the Gypsy Queen" from their 1981 album The Nature of the Beast, and Zoo Freaks, this track has some wild stories behind it. Originally written and recorded_TOKEN_ by Canadian artist Lorence Hud in 1972, the song was a hit in Canada, peaking at #16 on the RPM 100 chart. April Wine took it to new heights with their hard rock cover, which hit #57 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #19 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks. The song’s mystical vibe, with lyrics about warnings and impending danger, got a cinematic boost when its music video aired on MTV’s very first day of broadcasting in 1981. It’s since become a staple of classic rock radio and a live concert favorite, even popping up in the background of a Breaking Bad episode, "Granite State," in 2013. Fans on X have shared their love for the track, with posts like one from @JVMonte2 in 2024 calling it a highlight of the band’s commercial peak, and @mitchlafon in 2018 noting its iconic status alongside the album’s other hits.

Another cool tidbit comes from a fan’s story on Sleaze Roxx, where a writer recalled hearing "Sign of the Gypsy Queen" on the radio in 1981 and begging their dad to drive to the mall to grab the cassette. The song’s infectious energy and soaring guitars hooked them instantly, sparking a lifelong love for April Wine and Canadian rock. The track’s apocalyptic urgency, paired with Myles Goodwyn’s commanding vocals, gives it a timeless edge that still resonates, as seen in fan comments on April Wine’s official website, where one fan, Phil from Aurora, raved about the song’s energy at a 2023 Aurora Rib Fest performance. It’s no wonder this song remains a legend, carrying a sense of mystery and power that keeps Zoo Freaks coming back for more.

April Wine got their start in 1969 in Waverley, Nova Scotia, when brothers David and Ritchie Henman, along with cousin Jim Henman and frontman Myles Goodwyn, formed the band. The name "April Wine" was chosen simply because the two words sounded good together, a fittingly laid-back origin for a group that would become Canadian rock royalty. They relocated to Montreal in 1970, signing with Aquarius Records and releasing their self-titled debut album in 1971. Early hits like "You Could Have Been a Lady" set the stage for their rise, but it was their 1970s output and relentless touring that built their reputation. By the time The Nature of the Beast dropped in 1981, recorded at Le Manoir Studios in England, April Wine was at their commercial peak, with the album earning platinum status in the U.S. and charting at #24 on the Billboard 200.

Today, you can keep up with April Wine through their official website, where they share tour updates and band news, though frontman Myles Goodwyn announced his retirement from touring in 2023 due to health reasons. Their Facebook page is active with posts about recent shows and fan memories, while their Instagram offers glimpses of live performances and throwback photos. On X, they engage with fans and share updates, like their 2023 lineup changes. Fans also connect through communities like the April Wine Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and others swap stories, vinyl finds, and concert experiences. For more fan-driven content, check out sites like Last.fm, where listeners track and discuss their favorite tracks, including "Sign of the Gypsy Queen."