Champions of Rock cover

Released 30 years ago

Champions of Rock

April Wine · 1996

56 min · 16 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant collection of anthemic rock songs that blend catchy hooks with driving guitar riffs and infectious energy.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Just Between You and Me — This track stands out with its heartfelt lyrics and melodic chorus, serving as one of the band's most recognized songs that encapsulates their signature sound.
  • →
    I Like to Rock — An upbeat anthem that captures the essence of rock and roll spirit, making it a staple in live performances and resonating with audiences both old and new.
  • →
    Roller — With its infectious groove and energetic delivery, this song showcases April Wine's knack for crafting engaging rock tracks that remain popular at concerts.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady anthems for driving
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • uplifting energy for gatherings
  • consistent pacing for focused sessions
  • melodic hooks that invite participation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking slow, introspective tracks
  • prefer experimental or avant-garde sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1996, Champions of Rock marks a period of renewal for April Wine, who had seen fluctuating popularity since their peak in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This album features re-recordings of some of their classic hits alongside newer material, showcasing the band's enduring appeal and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors
Boston· Foreigner· Journey

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • I Like to Rock

    The chorus shifts into a powerful call-and-response format that invites listener participation, creating an electric atmosphere.

    This structural choice engages the audience directly, enhancing the communal experience of rock music and elevating the song's anthemic quality.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Just Between You and Me 3:54
  • 2 I Like to Rock 4:20
  • 3 Roller 4:18
  • 4 This Could Be the Right One 4:17
  • 5 All Over Town 2:58
  • 6 Say Hello 2:59
  • 7 Tellin' Me Lies 3:02
  • 8 Big City Girls 3:42
  • 9 Caught in the Crossfire 3:33
  • 10 Crash and Burn 2:34
  • 11 One More Time 3:56
  • 12 Rock Myself to Sleep 3:13
  • 13 Bad Boys 3:11
  • 14 Money Talks 3:28
  • 15 Too Hot to Handle 5:07
  • 16 Wanna Rock 2:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata