In Heaven

The song "In Heaven" by McQueen Street from their self-titled debut album is a standout power ballad that captured the hearts of hard rock fans in the early 1990s. This track, known for its emotive melodies and soaring vocals, reached #32 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Chart in 1992 and hit #1 on European underground rock charts, showcasing its international appeal. Fans on platforms like Amazon have praised its enduring quality, with one reviewer calling it "a truly amazing rock ballad" that still holds up today. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and polished production, helmed by renowned producer Tom Werman, made it a staple on MTV’s Headbangers Ball, where its music video gained traction alongside other tracks like "Money" and "My Religion." Interestingly, the song’s prominence resurfaced in the early 2000s when the lead singer of Puddle of Mudd wore a McQueen Street "Stick It" shirt in their "She Hates Me" video, sparking renewed interest in the band’s catalog, including "In Heaven."

Another piece of trivia about "In Heaven" ties to its creation during a pivotal time for the band. Formed in Montgomery, Alabama, McQueen Street recorded their debut album in 1991, just as the grunge movement began to overshadow glam metal and hard rock. Despite the shifting musical landscape, "In Heaven" stood out for its blend of raw emotion and melodic craftsmanship, often compared to bands like Skid Row and Ratt. The band’s official Facebook page occasionally shares nostalgic posts about the song, with fans in comments reminiscing about seeing the band perform it live at venues like Cabo Wabo Cantina in Mexico, a show co-hosted by KNAC and MTV. The track’s enduring legacy is also evident in fan-driven spaces like the McQueen Street Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees share stories of discovering the song on late-night radio or through worn-out cassette tapes.

McQueen Street began their journey in 1987 in Montgomery, Alabama, founded by brothers Derek Welsh (lead vocals and guitar) and Chris Welsh (drums), alongside Michael Powers (guitar) and Richard Hatcher (bass). The band’s name came from the street where Derek’s recording studio was located, a fitting nod to their grassroots origins. Initially, they dominated the southeast rock club circuit, building a loyal following with their high-energy performances and provocative lyrics. Their big break came when they signed with SBK Records, a division of EMI, in 1990, after impressing producer Tom Werman with a demo. Werman, known for working with bands like Mötley Crüe, personally requested to produce their debut album. The involvement of Steve Stevens, guitarist for Billy Idol and Vince Neil, added further credibility, with Stevens contributing to the track "Two Worlds" on the album. Despite their promising start, the rise of grunge halted their momentum, and their second album, recorded in 1993, wasn’t released until 2003 by Ring of Four Records.

Today, McQueen Street remains active, with Derek Welsh leading the charge and releasing new tracks like "Outside In" and "One Way Ticket" in 2020, the latter topping underground rock charts. Fans can connect with the band through their official Facebook and Instagram accounts, where they share updates and interact with their audience. Their X account also offers glimpses into their ongoing projects and throwbacks to their early days. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, the McQueen Street Fan Group on Facebook is a vibrant community where fans exchange memorabilia, discuss favorite tracks like "In Heaven," and celebrate the band’s legacy. The band’s official site, www.mcqueenstreet.com, serves as a hub for news, music, and merchandise, keeping the spirit of their hard rock roots alive for both longtime fans and new listeners.