Sign of the Gypsy Queen
April Wine's classic tune
I’m writing this just before I head out to Sing-along Six and debated whether or not to post another song from the show. I thought about doing a different type of song about a queen and this one popped into my head.
This song was written and first recorded by Canadian singer Lorence Hud in 1973. It performed respectfully but has hit classic status with the cover rockers April Wine did in 1981. It appeared in the Granite State episode of Breaking Bad, which introduced it to a new audience.
The song talks about taking action in the face of an ominous impending storm, in which the gypsy queen warned people to leave. It’s evocative, more so by the scream of the guitars. It flat out rocks.
The video has the distinction of airing on MTV’s first day. I’m unable to find it on YouTube but an enterprising soul has preserved it here. Instead, let me post Hud’s original version. It has a bit of Spanish guitar, which shouldn’t be a surprise based on the premise. It has an earthier feel.
Enjoy your song of the day!
Great song, and very informative article, MK! Thanks! I never thought to look beyond AW's performance. Thanks for the songwriter info and video....again, somebody hears the potential of a song, and (in April Wine's case), crafts a riveting arrangement that I love to think pleased the writer no end! I kinda hope Hud had the reaction that THIS is exactly how "Sign" was meant to sound, when all is said and done! As it happens, "Sign" made the very first edition of our "Yacht Pop Anchors": https://bradkyle.substack.com/p/yacht-pop-anchors-jay-ferguson-henry?utm_source=publication-search
What sets apart AW's arrangement (besides the very upfront guitars) is the close harmonies so well done!
Love this song - thanks for the reminder!!