Dragon: Did You Know?
10 Fun Facts You Might Not Know About Dragon
When you think of iconic Australasian rock bands, Dragon is likely one of the first to come to mind. Famous for hits like “April Sun in Cuba” and “Are You Old Enough,” this New Zealand-born, Australian-adopted band rocked the ‘70s and ‘80s with a unique sound that blended rock, pop, and a bit of island flair. While many are familiar with their chart-topping tunes, there are some intriguing stories about Dragon that not every fan knows. Here are 10 fun facts that dive deeper into their legacy!
1. The Band’s Name Was Almost… Mammal?
Before they became Dragon, the band toyed with various names, one of which was “Mammal.” Luckily, they opted for the more mythical “Dragon,” which they felt had a stronger, more powerful vibe that would match their musical style. It’s hard to imagine rocking out to “April Sun in Cuba” by Mammal, right?
2. Dragon’s Origins: Kiwi Roots with an Aussie Twist
Dragon was originally formed in New Zealand in 1972 by brothers Todd and Marc Hunter. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1970s, when the band moved to Australia, that they achieved mainstream success. They quickly became one of the most beloved rock acts Down Under, with Australia effectively adopting them as one of their own.
3. They Were Once Called the “Band of Death”
While it’s a title no band wants, Dragon earned this ominous nickname during the late 1970s due to a series of tragic deaths connected to the band. Original drummer Neil Storey passed away from a heroin overdose in 1976, followed by keyboardist Paul Hewson in 1985. These losses deeply affected the band, but they persevered and continued making music.
4. "April Sun in Cuba" Was Written in 10 Minutes
One of Dragon’s most enduring hits, “April Sun in Cuba,” was famously written in just 10 minutes! According to Marc Hunter, the band was playing around with some chords when inspiration struck. Little did they know this quick jam session would result in one of the most iconic rock songs in Australasian music history.
5. Marc Hunter Was Known for His Wild On-Stage Persona
Lead singer Marc Hunter was famous for his dynamic stage presence and unpredictable behavior. His charismatic yet sometimes controversial antics made every live show an experience. Whether he was throwing himself into the crowd or delivering epic banter between songs, Hunter made sure Dragon’s performances were unforgettable.
6. They Briefly Split in the Late '70s
At the height of their success, Dragon decided to call it quits in 1979. The pressures of fame, personal issues, and internal band conflicts contributed to their break-up. However, like many iconic rock bands, they couldn’t stay apart for long. By 1982, Dragon reformed and continued their musical journey, much to the delight of their fans.
7. Marc Hunter Had a Successful Solo Career
While Dragon was on hiatus, Marc Hunter didn’t sit still. He launched a successful solo career in the early ‘80s, releasing several albums and scoring hits like “Big City Talk.” His solo work showcased a different side of his musical talent, blending rock, pop, and a bit of funk.
8. They Were Almost Australia’s Eurovision Entry
Yes, you read that right! In 1978, Dragon was considered as a potential representative for Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest. Although they didn’t end up competing, the mere idea of their eclectic rock style gracing the Eurovision stage is a tantalizing “what if” for fans of both Dragon and the contest.
9. Dragon’s Connection to Australian Crawl
Todd Hunter, Dragon’s bass guitarist, has a fascinating connection to another iconic Australian band — Australian Crawl. After Marc Hunter’s death in 1998, Todd Hunter went on to co-write songs with Australian Crawl frontman James Reyne, including the hit “Hammerhead.” The collaboration between these two Aussie rock legends is a testament to the enduring influence of Dragon’s members.
10. A Farewell Tour That Was Anything But Final
After Marc Hunter’s death from throat cancer in 1998, many thought Dragon’s days were over. The band even embarked on a farewell tour, which was meant to be their final goodbye. But the band’s story didn’t end there. Todd Hunter, along with other former members, revived Dragon in the mid-2000s, ensuring that their music continues to live on for a new generation of fans.
From their Kiwi origins to their tumultuous ups and downs, Dragon’s history is as colorful and fiery as their name suggests. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their music, these fun facts shed light on the wild ride that has made Dragon one of Australasia’s most beloved rock bands. So next time you’re grooving to “Are You Old Enough” or “Rain,” remember that there’s a fascinating story behind the music!
One of Dragon's most meaningful and iconic song lines comes from their hit "April Sun in Cuba":
"Take me to the April sun in Cuba, oh-oh-oh. Take me where the April sun gonna treat me so right, so right, so right."
This line captures the yearning for escape and freedom, reflecting the band's laid-back yet rebellious spirit. The song, written during a time of global political tension, symbolized a desire to break free from societal pressures and find solace in a faraway place, representing both a physical and emotional journey. Fans often connect with its hopeful message of seeking better days.