Sweet Things in Life

The song Sweet Things in Life by Harlequin from their 1979 album Victim of a Song is a classic rock anthem that captures the band’s signature blend of catchy hooks and energetic riffs, perfect for the Zoo Crew’s hippie DJ vibe and their Zoo Freaks audience. While specific interviews or social media posts about this song are scarce, its inclusion in Harlequin’s debut album, produced by representatives of Jack Douglas (known for working with Aerosmith and John Lennon), highlights its significance. The song’s lyrics, which evoke a carefree spirit with lines about indulging in life’s simple pleasures, resonate with the band’s early focus on relatable, fun themes. A notable trivia tidbit is that Victim of a Song went Gold in Canada, largely due to the album’s strong radio play in Western Canada, with tracks like Sweet Things in Life contributing to its success. Fans on platforms like Harlequin’s official Facebook often reminisce about the song’s nostalgic feel, with some sharing stories of hearing it live during the band’s peak touring years in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Harlequin’s journey began in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1975, when bassist Ralph James formed the band, recruiting vocalist George Belanger, guitarist Glen Willows, keyboardist Gary Golden, and drummer David Budzak. The group started by recording demos and gigging in Toronto’s bar scene, building a grassroots following. Their big break came when they were discovered in a small Toronto bar by Lachlan MacFadyen and Kent Dobney, representatives of producer Jack Douglas. Unable to get into a sold-out show downstairs, the producers stumbled upon Harlequin’s performance and were impressed enough to produce their debut album, Victim of a Song. This led to a deal with CBS/Epic Records in 1979, launching the band into the Canadian rock scene with hits like Innocence and Sweet Things in Life. The band’s early years were marked by relentless touring and a commitment to delivering high-energy live shows, which cemented their reputation as a staple of Canadian classic rock.

Today, Harlequin remains active, with a current lineup including Belanger, guitarist Derrick Gottfried, drummer A.J. Chabidon, keyboardist Gary Golden, and bassist Paul McNair. Fans can stay updated through the band’s official website, where they share tour dates and news. Their social media presence includes Facebook, where they post about recent performances and engage with fans, and Instagram, featuring throwback photos and updates. On X, the band occasionally shares quick updates and interacts with their audience. For dedicated Zoo Freaks, the Harlequin Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community where fans discuss the band’s music, share concert memories, and celebrate songs like Sweet Things in Life. While no official fan websites were found, this Facebook group serves as a hub for Harlequin enthusiasts to connect and keep the band’s legacy alive.