Billy Oxygen

The song "Billy Oxygen" by Helix from their debut album Breaking Loose is a standout track with a quirky sci-fi flair. Written and sung by guitarist Brent Doerner, the song tells the story of a spaceman named Billy Oxygen, a "strange little fellow" who travels to other planets in his ES-335 spacecraft, searching for cosmic parties. The lyrics, while not exactly high literature, captured the band’s early playful energy and helped secure significant radio airplay in Canada, marking one of their first breakthroughs. In a 2006 interview, Doerner shared with music writer Mike Ladano that the song’s infectious vibe and sci-fi nod resonated with fans, even inspiring a fictional spaceship named ES-335 in Ladano’s own short stories. The track’s driving rhythm, powered by Brian Doerner’s precise drumming and Keith “Bert” Zurbrigg’s bass solo, showcases the band’s raw talent despite their rough-around-the-edges debut.

Another tidbit about "Billy Oxygen" comes from the band’s lead vocalist, Brian Vollmer, who recalled the intense recording process for Breaking Loose in 2009. The band lived in the studio for two weeks, tracking on 24-track 2-inch tape, fully immersed in the creative process. This dedication paid off, as the song’s unique character—described by Ladano as a blend of “class, ambition, and natural talent”—earned it a lasting place in Helix’s legacy. The 2019 40th anniversary reissue of Breaking Loose included rare photos and liner notes, further highlighting the song’s significance, with fans on TheHelixFans Facebook group praising its nostalgic charm and sharing memories of hearing it on local radio stations.

Helix began in 1974 in Kitchener, Ontario, founded by drummer Bruce Arnold and frontman Brian Vollmer. The original lineup included guitarists Ron Watson and Rick “Minstrel” Trembley, keyboardist Don Simmons, and bassist Keith “Bert” Zurbrigg. Starting as a bar band, they honed their craft through relentless gigging across Ontario, building a loyal following. By 1979, with manager Bill Seip’s guidance, they scraped together funds to record Breaking Loose independently on their own H&S Records label (named for Helix and Seip). The album’s modest success, selling around 10,000 copies, caught the attention of Capitol Records, setting the stage for their later hits like “Rock You.” Despite numerous lineup changes, with Vollmer as the sole constant member, Helix’s gritty determination and hard rock spirit kept them going, even after tragedies like the 1992 death of guitarist Paul Hackman in a tour bus accident.

You can stay updated with Helix through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour dates, merch, and throwback content. Fans also gather on the TheHelixFans Facebook group, a vibrant community swapping stories, rare photos, and concert memories. Another fan hub, Planet Helix, offers exclusive merch and reissues, including the expanded Breaking Loose edition, keeping the band’s legacy alive for Zoo Freaks and beyond.