Sail On Sail Away

The song "Sail On Sail Away" by Moxy from their self-titled debut album is a classic rock gem that carries intriguing stories from its creation. One fascinating piece of trivia involves the guitar work on the track. While Tommy Bolin, a renowned guitarist known for his work with James Gang and later Deep Purple, contributed to most of the album’s solos, "Sail On Sail Away" features Earl Johnson taking the lead on the guitar solo. This was due to a disagreement between Johnson and the producer, which led to Bolin stepping in for much of the album, but Johnson’s performance on this song showcases his raw talent and distinct style, making it a standout moment for Moxy fans.

Another interesting tidbit comes from the song’s reception, particularly in San Antonio, Texas, where it became a regional hit. In the spring of 1976, "Sail On Sail Away" climbed into the top 20 charts on KISS-FM, thanks to disc jockey Joe Anthony, known as "The Godfather of Rock." Anthony’s freedom to play Moxy’s debut album in its entirety helped cement the band’s popularity in Texas, with the song remaining in rotation on many Texas radio stations to this day. The strong connection with Texas audiences led to Moxy’s first U.S. headline appearance in 1977, with AC/DC as their opening act, a testament to the song’s role in building their early fanbase.

Moxy was formed in Toronto, Ontario, in 1973, emerging from the ashes of the rock group Leigh Ashford. The band’s core members included singer Douglas "Buzz" Shearman, guitarist Earl Johnson, drummer Bill Wade, and bassist Terry Juric, with some early contributions from musicians like Greg Godovitz and Gil Moore, who later found fame with other Canadian bands. Shearman, a former teen singer with Sherman & Peabody, brought a gritty, powerful vocal style that defined Moxy’s hard rock sound. The band honed their craft in Toronto’s bar scene, quickly gaining a reputation for their energetic live performances. By 1975, their independently produced debut album, featuring "Sail On Sail Away," caught the attention of Polydor Records in Canada and later Mercury Records for worldwide distribution, launching them onto the international stage.

Moxy’s journey from local bars to touring with major acts like Black Sabbath and Boston was fueled by their raw talent and relentless drive. After the success of their debut, they worked with famed producer Jack Douglas, known for his work with Aerosmith, on their second album, Moxy II. Despite challenges, including lineup changes and the tragic death of Shearman in a motorcycle accident in 1983, Moxy’s legacy endures, with Earl Johnson leading a revived lineup in recent years. Their music, particularly tracks like "Sail On Sail Away," continues to resonate with fans of classic rock, as evidenced by posts on Reddit’s ClassicRock community, where fans praise the band’s underrated contributions to the genre.

For those looking to connect with Moxy’s music and legacy, their official website is moxy.live. You can also follow them on social media via Facebook and X. While their Instagram presence is less active, it still offers glimpses into their ongoing activities. Fans can join discussions and share their love for Moxy on platforms like the Moxy Rocks Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts post about the band’s classic tracks and recent releases. Additionally, fan-driven content can be found on sites like Sleaze Roxx, which reviews Moxy’s discography and celebrates their enduring impact on rock music.