Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – Oct 13, 2024
Halifax, Nova Scotia was the setting in 1969 for the formation and emergence of an up-and-coming Canadian rock band. The band achieved significant success throughout the 70s and 80s, appearing on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. seven times between 1972 and 1984.
Known for their energetic live performances and a string of hit songs, the band made a lasting impact on the rock music landscape, particularly in Canada. Their diverse sound, blending elements of hard rock, blues, and pop, resonated with audiences and garnered them a loyal following.
One of the band’s more notable recordings from 1975 quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of their most beloved tracks to date. Its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and heartfelt lyrics illustrate the essence of youthful romance, making it an anthem for lovers.
Ironically, it failed to chart in the U.S.
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Realizing that Halifax did not provide opportunities to play and record, the band sent a demo tape to Aquarius Records in Montreal. Aquarius managers, Terry Flood and Donald K. Tarlton, returned a rejection letter but the band misinterpreted it for an invitation.
So, on April 1, 1970, April Wine went to Montreal, bringing with them their instruments and $100 in cash. Flood and Tarlton were soon persuaded to sign the band to a contract.
With three albums under their belt, the band embarked on the Electric Adventure Tour where nearly every Canadian arena or concert hall that seated more than 2500 saw the band play.
During the tour, Gene Cornish and Dino Danelli of the Rascals attended a 1974 concert at Toronto’s Massey Hall, and were so impressed they offered to record and produce a live album of the band. The one-night recording session resulted in the album April Wine Live going gold.
In 1975, April Wine released their fifth album, Stand Back. Included on the album, which went double platinum in Canada, was a song that had been released as a single but failed to chart in the US. The song captures the carefree spirit and optimism of the 70s, a time when rock music was undergoing a renaissance.
Written by the band’s lead singer, Myles Goodwyn, its upbeat tempo and joyful refrain provides a welcome escape for listeners, transporting them to a world of endless possibilities and romantic adventures where “Tonite Is A Wonderful Time To Fall in Love.”
YouTube listing of the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caJiUCih-Hs
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
