This Beat Goes On / Switchin' to Glide

The song "This Beat Goes On / Switchin' to Glide" by The Kings is a classic rock anthem that emerged from a serendipitous moment in rehearsal. According to the band’s official website, songwriting partners David Diamond and Mister Zero initially crafted the two tracks as separate pieces. It wasn’t until the band segued them together during practice that they realized the magic of combining them. This decision paid off, as the double-A side single spent 23 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #43, and earned a Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame induction in 2020. The song’s infectious energy made it a radio staple, with some stations, like KDKB in Phoenix, playing it every Friday at 5 p.m. with a custom voice-over by the band to kick off the weekend. SongMeanings comments reveal fans’ love for its unpretentious vibe, though Mister Zero himself debunked wild interpretations—like drug references or a waitress named Donna—urging fans to watch their documentary for the real story.

Another fascinating tidbit comes from the song’s production. Legendary producer Bob Ezrin, fresh off Pink Floyd’s The Wall, stumbled upon The Kings at Toronto’s Nimbus 9 Studio. Initially set to mix the tracks, Ezrin felt the recordings needed a complete overhaul. He took the tapes to Elektra Records in Los Angeles, securing the band a major label deal. The resulting album, The Kings Are Here, went Platinum in Canada in 2021, and the single became a cultural touchstone, even adopted by Milwaukee’s 105.7 FM The Fan as an anthem for the Brewers’ post-game show in 2017. The Kings’ documentary, < Mohanad El Sobky: The Kings: Anatomy of a One-Hit Wonder>, available on YouTube, humorously recounts their journey, including a disastrous first U.S. gig in Denver, highlighting their resilience and wit.

The Kings began their journey in the late 1970s, formed in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Oakville, Ontario. Originally called WhistleKing, the band—consisting of David Diamond (bass, lead vocals), Mister Zero (guitar), Sonny Keyes (keyboards, vocals), and Max Styles (drums)—spent over three years rehearsing, playing club gigs, and honing their songwriting. Diamond’s distinctive voice and songwriting talent became the band’s cornerstone, giving them a unique sound that stood out in the competitive rock scene. Their persistence paid off when they recorded their debut album at Nimbus 9 Studio, where Ezrin’s involvement catapulted them to international recognition. The band’s chemistry, built on years of collaboration, and Diamond’s ability to craft instantly recognizable melodies laid the foundation for their breakout hit.

Despite the “one-hit wonder” label, The Kings have maintained a devoted fanbase and continued to release music, including albums like Unstoppable (1993), Because of You (2003), and The Longest Story Ever Told (2024). They’ve performed over 2,000 shows across North America, sharing stages with icons like Bob Seger, Jeff Beck, and The Beach Boys. Their appearance on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand and a closing slot at the 1980 Heatwave Festival alongside Elvis Costello and The Pretenders marked their rapid rise. The band’s official website, thekingsarehere.com, offers a deep dive into their discography and history, while their social media presence keeps fans engaged. You can follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Fan communities have also kept the spirit of The Kings alive. While specific fan websites are scarce, The Kings Fan Group on Facebook provides a space for “Zoo Freaks” to share memories, discuss the band’s music, and celebrate their enduring legacy. The group is active, with fans posting about favorite tracks and live show experiences. Additionally, platforms like Reddit’s ClassicRock community frequently highlight “This Beat Goes On / Switchin' to Glide,” with posts garnering enthusiastic comments about its nostalgic appeal. These fan-driven spaces underscore the song’s lasting impact and The Kings’ ability to connect with listeners decades after their debut.