All We Are (Live 1990)

The song "All We Are (Live 1990)" by Kim Mitchell, featured on his Greatest Hits album, is a vibrant anthem of love and longing, capturing the emotional highs and lows of romantic connection. Recorded live, this version showcases Mitchell’s signature guitar prowess and raw vocal energy, resonating with fans for its heartfelt lyrics co-written with longtime collaborator Pye Dubois. In a 2011 interview with SOCAN, Mitchell shared that the song’s creation was inspired by personal experiences of love’s fleeting nature, with Dubois’ poetic lyrics adding a universal touch. He noted, “Pye had this way of turning my riffs into stories we all feel,” highlighting their creative synergy. The live 1990 recording, included on the Greatest Hits compilation, was chosen for its electric crowd response, which Mitchell described on his Facebook as “like a heartbeat driving the song.” Fans on the Kim Mitchell Fan Club Facebook group often cite this version as a concert favorite, with one member recalling a 1990 Toronto show where Mitchell extended the guitar solo, leaving the crowd “absolutely wild.”

Another layer of trivia comes from Mitchell’s own reflections on X, where he once posted about the song’s enduring appeal: “All We Are still hits me hard—love stings, but it’s worth every note.” The song’s lyrics, like “We spin as the highest star spins,” have been praised for their poetic imagery, with Genius contributors noting its blend of romantic optimism and bittersweet reality. In a rare anecdote shared during a 2004 Q107 radio broadcast, Mitchell revealed that the song was nearly left off the album until a last-minute decision to include the live cut, which he felt captured the “real soul” of his performances. This choice paid off, as the track remains a staple on Kim Mitchell’s setlists and a beloved piece of Canadian rock history among Last.fm listeners.

Kim Mitchell’s journey to becoming a Canadian rock icon began in Sarnia, Ontario, where he was born in 1952. Growing up, he was drawn to music early, teaching himself guitar and playing in local bands as a teenager. According to his bio on The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Mitchell’s passion for rock led him to Toronto in his late teens, where he joined a band called Zooom. After a stint in Greece honing his craft, he returned to Canada and formed Max Webster in 1973 with Pye Dubois and other Sarnia musicians. The band’s quirky, progressive rock style gained a cult following, producing hits like “Hangover” and “Paradise Skies.” Mitchell’s dynamic stage presence and intricate guitar work made Max Webster a standout act, earning them gold-certified albums and international tours. When the band dissolved in 1981, Mitchell launched his solo career with a self-titled EP, followed by the breakout 1984 album Akimbo Alogo, featuring the hit “Go for Soda.” His solo success, marked by three Juno Awards and platinum records, solidified his place in Canadian music.

Fans can connect with Kim Mitchell through his official website, kimmitchell.ca, where tour dates and merchandise are available. His social media presence includes Facebook, where he shares updates and interacts with fans, and Instagram, featuring behind-the-scenes photos and concert clips. On X, Mitchell occasionally posts about his music and reflections on his career. The Kim Mitchell Fan Club on Facebook is a lively community where “Zoo Freaks” and other fans discuss his discography, share concert memories, and celebrate songs like “All We Are.” Another fan hub, Last.fm, offers a space for listeners to track his music and join discussions. These platforms keep Mitchell’s legacy alive, connecting the Zoo Crew’s audience with his timeless rock anthems.