Choirboys: Did You Know?
Choirboys: Fun Facts & Untold Stories About Australia’s Pub Rock Legends
If you're a fan of Australian rock, chances are you've heard of Choirboys. Best known for their anthem “Run to Paradise,” the band has been a staple of the Aussie pub rock scene for decades. But beyond the hits and the fame, there are many lesser-known stories and fun facts about Choirboys that even die-hard fans might not be aware of.
1. Pub Beginnings and Early Struggles
While Choirboys are synonymous with Australian rock, their rise to fame wasn’t immediate. The band started in 1979 in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, playing in local pubs and clubs. Like many bands at the time, they had to fight their way through the crowded music scene, often performing in dingy bars with broken equipment. Their early gigs weren't always glamorous, but these experiences helped shape their raw, gritty sound and solidify their reputation as a hardworking band.
2. “Run to Paradise” Almost Didn't Happen
“Run to Paradise” is Choirboys’ signature hit, but did you know that the song almost didn’t make it to the recording studio? When the band wrote the track, they had no idea it would become a hit. In fact, the record label wasn’t fully convinced it would be a commercial success. But when the song was released in 1987, it skyrocketed to number three on the Australian charts and remains an iconic anthem today, often referred to as the quintessential Aussie pub rock track.
3. The Band Once Went by a Different Name
Before they settled on the name Choirboys, the band briefly considered going by a different name entirely—The White Cockatoos. While this might have sounded uniquely Australian, they ultimately decided that Choirboys had the right mix of attitude and appeal for their sound. The name also evokes a cheeky juxtaposition: angelic "choirboys" playing raw, electric rock.
4. They Played with AC/DC and The Angels
One of the most memorable moments in the band’s early career was touring with some of Australia's biggest rock bands, including AC/DC and The Angels. Sharing the stage with these rock giants not only exposed Choirboys to wider audiences but also cemented their status as a legitimate force in the Aussie rock scene. Their energetic performances and ability to engage a crowd impressed even the most seasoned rock fans.
5. A Connection to Cold Chisel
There’s a famous connection between Choirboys and another iconic Aussie band, Cold Chisel. Mark Opitz, who produced several of Cold Chisel’s albums, also produced Choirboys’ 1987 hit album Big Bad Noise, which included “Run to Paradise.” Opitz was instrumental in helping Choirboys refine their sound and break into the mainstream, adding a polished edge to their rough, pub rock roots.
6. "Boys in the Band" Became a Pub Rock Anthem
While “Run to Paradise” is their most famous track, another song that became a fan favorite is “Boys in the Band.” This song resonates with fans of pub rock as it speaks directly to the lifestyle of the musicians and fans alike. It’s a tribute to the camaraderie and chaotic fun of being in a rock band, a celebration of live music, and a nod to the unique culture of Australia’s pubs. It has since become a staple in their live shows.
7. Choirboys Are Still Rocking After 40 Years
Most bands don’t make it past their first few albums, let alone four decades in the business, but Choirboys are still going strong. They've continued to release music over the years, staying true to their roots while evolving with the times. Despite lineup changes and the shifting musical landscape, the band has maintained a loyal following, proving that true rock 'n' roll never dies.
8. "Run to Paradise" Used for a Charity Initiative
In 2015, Choirboys re-recorded “Run to Paradise” with a new spin, calling it “Fly in the Wings of Love” as part of a charity initiative. The project aimed to raise money and awareness for cancer research, showing that the band’s signature anthem can still make a positive impact years after its original release.
9. The Legendary Status in Australian Pub Rock
Choirboys’ ability to capture the essence of pub culture in Australia has earned them a legendary status. Their sound, while influenced by bands like The Angels and Cold Chisel, remains distinctly their own. The band’s live performances in pubs are often intimate affairs, with fans packing the venues to relive the glory days of Aussie pub rock.
10. Choirboys Have Their Own Beer
What better way to solidify your pub rock credentials than with your own beer? Choirboys collaborated with a local brewery to release “Run to Paradise” beer, a tribute to their iconic song. Fans can now enjoy a cold one while listening to the tunes that made the band famous—perfect for a true Choirboys fan experience.
More Than Just "Run to Paradise"
While Choirboys will always be remembered for their biggest hit, their legacy runs much deeper. From their early pub struggles to their continued relevance in the Aussie rock scene, Choirboys have proven themselves to be more than a one-hit wonder. They're a testament to the spirit of Australian rock 'n' roll: raw, gritty, and timeless.
One of Choirboys' most meaningful lyrics comes from their iconic song “Run to Paradise”. While the song has a lively, anthemic feel, its lyrics touch on the consequences of hedonism, excess, and lost potential.
Here’s a powerful excerpt:
"Everybody wants to be your friend / You’ve got no shame, you've got no pride / It's just the way you play the game / Run to paradise."
These lines reflect the song’s underlying commentary on the pursuit of pleasure at the expense of personal integrity and the dangers of living life recklessly. While "Run to Paradise" may sound celebratory on the surface, its lyrics hint at deeper themes of self-destruction and the seductive, fleeting nature of paradise when it’s built on hollow pursuits.
The song resonates with listeners who have experienced the highs and lows of life's choices, making it not just an anthem for a good time but a cautionary tale as well.