Members of April Wine: Complete Story & Where Are They Now
From 1969 to today, the story of the members of April Wine reads like a Canadian rock odyssey filled with platinum albums, lineup changes, personal struggles, and triumphant comebacks.
Whether you’re curious about the original lineup that started it all in Halifax, the member changes that shaped their harder-edged sound, or where these classic rock artists ended up, this complete guide reveals the full story behind one of Canada’s most beloved and commercially successful rock bands.
With 21 Top 40 singles in Canada, over 20 million albums sold worldwide, and 11 Juno Award nominations, April Wine created an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of rock fans.
📋 Table of Contents [+]
🎸 Essential April Wine Albums
Explore the complete discography that showcases the evolution of the members of April Wine. Click below to discover the albums that defined Canadian rock history! 🎵
Shop April Wine Albums 🛒The Original Members of April Wine
The members of April Wine came together in the fall of 1969 in Waverley, Nova Scotia, a small community just outside Halifax.
The original lineup consisted of four talented musicians: Myles Goodwyn on guitar and vocals, brothers David Henman on guitar and vocals, Ritchie Henman on drums and keyboards, and their cousin Jim Henman on bass and vocals.
According to David Henman, the band held their first official rehearsal on December 1, 1969.
They chose the name April Wine simply because they liked the way it sounded, a decision that would become synonymous with Canadian rock excellence for over five decades.
The original members of April Wine brought diverse musical influences to the table, creating a sound that blended melodic rock with powerful instrumentation and tight harmonies.
💡 Did You Know?
April Wine’s first official rehearsal took place on December 1, 1969, and according to founding member David Henman, Myles Goodwyn was the only non-family member in the original lineup. The other three founding members were all related through the Henman family!
The Halifax Formation Story
The formation of the members of April Wine happened during a transformative period in rock music history.
By spring 1970, the band had relocated from Halifax to Montreal, Quebec, seeking better opportunities in Canada’s thriving music scene.
The move proved pivotal. Within months, they signed with Aquarius Records and began recording their self-titled debut album.
Montreal provided the perfect environment for the members of April Wine to develop their sound, with its vibrant club scene and proximity to recording studios.
The band’s early days were spent honing their craft in small venues, building a devoted following that would eventually catapult them to national stardom.
Early Musical Background of Key Members
Myles Goodwyn, born in 1948 in Woodstock, New Brunswick, grew up in Waverley, Nova Scotia.
He developed his musical skills as a teenager and brought exceptional songwriting abilities to the original members of April Wine.
Goodwyn would become the band’s primary songwriter and only constant member throughout their entire history, penning most of their biggest hits.
The Henman brothers, David, Ritchie, and Jim, came from a musical family and had been playing together for years before forming April Wine.
Their family chemistry and natural musical rapport gave the early April Wine sound its distinctive cohesion and energy that captured audiences across Canada.
April Wine Lineup Changes Through the Years
The members of April Wine experienced numerous lineup changes throughout their five-decade history, with each transition bringing new energy and musical direction to the band.
The first significant change came in October 1971 when original bassist Jim Henman departed after the release of their debut album.
He was replaced by Jim Clench, a talented bassist and vocalist from Montreal who would help propel April Wine to new commercial heights.
Clench’s arrival marked the beginning of a new era, as his powerful bass playing and co-lead vocals added a grittier edge to the band’s sound on albums like On Record (1972).
💡 Did You Know?
Jim Clench not only played bass for the members of April Wine but also took lead vocals on several hit songs including “Oowatanite” and “Weeping Widow.” He later joined Bachman-Turner Overdrive in 1978, replacing none other than Randy Bachman himself!
The Departure of the Henman Brothers
In September 1973, after an intensive touring schedule that left them burned out, both David and Ritchie Henman decided to leave April Wine.
Their departure meant that Myles Goodwyn and Jim Clench were the only remaining members of April Wine.
The two held auditions and brought in drummer Jerry Mercer (formerly of Mashmakhan) and guitarist Gary Moffet.
This new lineup completed the album Electric Jewels (1973), which featured classics like “Weeping Widow,” “Just Like That,” and “Lady Run, Lady Hide.”
The Henman brothers went on to form a new band called The Dudes, which would eventually provide April Wine with another crucial member.
New Blood: Later Members Who Joined
In 1975, after disagreements about musical direction, Jim Clench left the members of April Wine and was replaced by Steve Lang.
Lang’s bass work can be heard on classic albums including The Whole World’s Goin’ Crazy (1976), which became the first Canadian album to achieve platinum status based on advance sales orders alone.
The most significant addition came in August 1977 when Brian Greenway joined from The Dudes, making April Wine a five-piece band for the first time.
Greenway brought a harder-edged sound with his raspy vocals, harmonica playing, and aggressive guitar style.
His addition gave the members of April Wine their signature three-guitar attack that defined their sound through their most successful commercial period.
The lineup of Goodwyn, Greenway, Lang, Moffet, and Mercer remained stable for several years, releasing a string of platinum albums and becoming one of the biggest classic rock bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
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Brian Greenway is now the longest-serving member of April Wine, having joined in 1977 and performed with the band for over 47 years (with a break from 1986-1992). That’s even longer than founder Myles Goodwyn’s active performing tenure!
Where Are the Members of April Wine Today?
The current and recent members of April Wine have fascinating stories of triumph, loss, and continued dedication to rock music.
While some have passed away, others continue to tour and keep the April Wine legacy alive for new generations of fans.
Understanding where these legendary musicians are today provides insight into the enduring power of Canadian rock and the lasting impact of April Wine’s music.
Myles Goodwyn: The Driving Force
Myles Goodwyn remained the heart and soul of the members of April Wine from formation in 1969 until his retirement from touring in December 2022.
Health issues, particularly diabetes, forced Goodwyn to step back from the road after decades of relentless touring.
His final live performance with April Wine took place on March 2, 2023, in Truro, Nova Scotia, where original member Jim Henman joined him onstage during an emotional farewell speech.
Goodwyn continued to write material for the band and manage business affairs even after retiring from performing.
In 2023, he was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, an honor he considered his greatest achievement.
Tragically, Myles Goodwyn passed away on December 3, 2023, at age 75 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
While no official cause of death was announced, a band member indicated it was cancer.
Goodwyn’s legacy includes over 10 million albums sold, 21 Top 40 singles in Canada, and an indelible mark on Canadian rock history.
His autobiography Just Between You and Me (2016) chronicles his life story, including his decades-long battle with alcohol addiction that nearly killed him in 2008.
Brian Greenway: The Band Leader
Brian Greenway, now 73 years old (born October 1, 1951), has become the de facto leader of the current members of April Wine.
After Goodwyn’s retirement, Greenway took over the reins with Myles’ blessing, continuing to tour and keep the band’s legacy alive.
The current April Wine lineup features Greenway alongside bassist Richard Lanthier (since 2011), drummer Roy “Nip” Nichol (since 2012), and guitarist and lead vocalist Marc Parent (since 2022).
Parent, a well-known figure on the blues scene, brings a vocal style remarkably similar to Goodwyn’s, ensuring the classic April Wine sound continues.
Greenway maintains an incredibly active schedule, playing over 30 concerts per year across Canada and the United States with April Wine.
In 2016, he formed Brian Greenway’s Blues Bus with former April Wine guitarist Gary Moffet, allowing him to explore his passion for blues music.
April Wine continues to perform at major festivals in Europe and North America, recently touring with Uriah Heep on their farewell tour.
In September 2023, April Wine received their star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, with Greenway proudly accepting the honor on behalf of the band.
💡 Did You Know?
Brian Greenway actually auditioned for April Wine twice! He first tried out in 1973 but wasn’t selected. Myles Goodwyn chose Gary Moffet instead. Greenway admits Moffet was “a far better choice at the time.” He finally joined in 1977 and has been with the band ever since!
Other Key Members: Where They Are Now
Jim Clench, who played bass for the members of April Wine from 1971-1975 and again from 1992-2006, passed away on November 3, 2010, at age 61.
He died in a Montreal hospital from complications of stage 4 lung cancer.
His April Wine bandmates learned of his diagnosis only one day before his death, underscoring his private nature.
Clench left an impressive legacy, having also played with Bachman-Turner Overdrive from 1978-1979 and contributed to Bryan Adams’ debut album in 1980.
Steve Lang, bassist from 1976-1984 during April Wine’s commercial peak, passed away on February 4, 2017, at age 67 from Parkinson’s disease.
Lang played on some of April Wine’s most successful albums including First Glance, Harder… Faster, and The Nature of the Beast.
When April Wine reformed in 1992, Lang was offered the chance to rejoin but declined, choosing to focus on his investment business instead.
Jerry Mercer, the powerhouse drummer for the members of April Wine from 1973-2008, is now 85 years old and living in the Kingston, Ontario area.
Mercer left April Wine in late 2008 at age 69, announcing his retirement as he approached his 70th birthday.
However, “retirement” for Mercer meant pursuing new musical adventures.
He formed The JerryCo Band with former April Wine guitarist Gary Moffet and bassist Breen LeBoeuf, continuing to perform well into his 80s.
Mercer was previously the drummer for Mashmakhan, the Canadian band that had an international hit with “As the Years Go By” in 1970.
His distinctive drum solos during April Wine’s cover of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man” became legendary, often featuring elaborate strobe light shows.
Gary Moffet, guitarist from 1973-1984, shifted to music production after leaving the band and now plays with Brian Greenway’s Blues Bus.
Steve Segal, who played guitar for the members of April Wine from 1992-1995, left the music business and returned to a more private life.
Richard Lanthier (bass, since 2011), Roy “Nip” Nichol (drums, since 2012), and Marc Parent (guitar/vocals, since 2022) continue to tour as the current April Wine, keeping the legacy alive and introducing the band’s music to new audiences across North America.
Musical Legacy of April Wine Members
The members of April Wine created a musical legacy that extends far beyond their impressive commercial success.
With 5 platinum or multi-platinum albums in Canada, 21 Top 40 singles, and 11 Juno Award nominations (including 7 for Group of the Year between 1975 and 1983), April Wine became a defining force in Canadian rock.
They were the first Canadian band to have a video played on MTV when it launched in 1981.
Their influence on Canadian rock cannot be overstated. They paved the way for countless other Canadian acts and proved that homegrown talent could compete on an international stage.
Songwriting Contributions by Each Member
Myles Goodwyn was undoubtedly the primary songwriter among the members of April Wine, penning most of their biggest hits.
His compositions include “Roller,” “I Like to Rock,” “Just Between You and Me,” “Sign of the Gypsy Queen,” and “Say Hello.”
Goodwyn’s songwriting style combined memorable hooks with relatable lyrics, creating radio-friendly rock anthems that defined the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Jim Clench contributed significantly as both a songwriter and vocalist, co-writing classics like “Oowatanite” (which he also sang lead on) and “Lady Run, Lady Hide.”
His grittier vocal style provided perfect contrast to Goodwyn’s smoother delivery on albums like Electric Jewels.
Brian Greenway added his songwriting talents to the mix with tracks like “Before the Dawn” from Harder… Faster, which became a crowd favorite at live performances.
He also wrote “Holiday” and “In Your World” for the Back to the Mansion album.
The collaborative chemistry among the members of April Wine allowed them to create a diverse catalog that ranged from hard-driving rockers to tender ballads.
Post-Band Success Stories
After April Wine disbanded in 1986, several members of April Wine pursued successful solo careers and other musical projects.
Myles Goodwyn released a self-titled solo album in 1988 on Aquarius Records (Canada) and Atlantic Records (USA).
Later in his career, he pursued his passion for blues music, releasing Myles Goodwyn & Friends of the Blues in 2018 and a second volume in 2019.
Both albums earned ECMA (East Coast Music Award) for “Blues Recording of the Year” in 2019 and 2020 respectively.
Brian Greenway released his solo album Serious Business in 1988 on Atlantic Records, maintaining the classic April Wine blend of hard rockers and ballads.
He also appeared in a one-hour CTV television special titled Brian Greenway and Friends in 1991.
Jerry Mercer formed the Buzz Band with Breen LeBoeuf after April Wine’s initial breakup and continued extensive session work throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
His later work with The JerryCo Band demonstrated his continued passion for performing even in his 80s.
Jim Clench enjoyed success with Bachman-Turner Overdrive, recording Street Action (1978) and Rock n’ Roll Nights (1979) before that band disbanded.
The members of April Wine proved that their talents extended well beyond the band’s collective success, each making their own mark on Canadian music history.
Essential April Wine Albums Featuring Different Lineups
The discography of the members of April Wine showcases their evolution from a Halifax bar band to Canadian rock royalty.
Each album captures a specific lineup and era, providing a sonic journey through five decades of rock history.
Here are the essential albums that every April Wine fan should own.
🎸 ESSENTIAL APRIL WINE ALBUMS 🎸
Experience the complete evolution of the members of April Wine through these legendary albums. From their earliest recordings to platinum-selling masterpieces, discover the music that defined Canadian rock!
Classic Masters Remastered
The ultimate collection of April Wine classics in stunning remastered quality.
Features all the hit songs from the golden era of the members of April Wine.
Perfect introduction to Canada’s legendary rock band.
Live: April Wine
Experience the raw power of April Wine’s legendary live performances.
Captures the incredible energy that made the members of April Wine one of Canada’s greatest concert bands.
Essential for any classic rock collection.
On Record (1972)
The album that launched April Wine to stardom with “You Could Have Been a Lady.”
Features Jim Clench’s debut with the members of April Wine.
A breakthrough moment in Canadian rock history.
Electric Jewels (1973)
The first album featuring the Jerry Mercer and Gary Moffet lineup.
Classic tracks include “Weeping Widow” and “Just Like That.”
A fan favorite showcasing the evolving sound of the members of April Wine.
Stand Back (1975)
Double platinum masterpiece featuring “Tonight Is a Wonderful Time to Fall in Love.”
The first album to sell over 100,000 copies by a Canadian band.
A landmark achievement for the members of April Wine.
The Whole World’s Goin’ Crazy
First Canadian album certified platinum upon release!
Hit #1 in Canada with the ballad “Like a Lover, Like a Song.”
Steve Lang’s debut with the members of April Wine.
Forever for Now (1977)
Platinum seller featuring the massive hit “You Won’t Dance With Me.”
The band’s biggest Canadian single achieved gold status.
Captures the classic era of the members of April Wine.
First Glance (1978)
Brian Greenway’s first studio album with April Wine.
Features the breakthrough hit “Roller” that dominated North American radio.
Their first gold record outside of Canada.
Harder … Faster (1979)
Platinum album featuring “I Like to Rock” and “Say Hello.”
Showcases the harder-edged sound brought by Brian Greenway.
A defining moment for the members of April Wine.
The Nature of the Beast (1981)
Multi-platinum masterpiece and April Wine’s biggest international success.
Features “Just Between You and Me” and “Sign of the Gypsy Queen.”
Peaked at #24 on Billboard 200, the band’s highest US chart position.
Nature of the Beast / Power Play
Special two-album collection pairing their two biggest international hits.
Both albums achieved platinum status in multiple countries.
Essential listening for understanding the commercial peak.
Animal Grace (1984)
The final album before the band’s initial breakup.
Features “This Could be the Right One” which achieved chart success.
A bittersweet farewell from the classic lineup.
Walking Through Fire (1985)
Final album before reunion featuring only Goodwyn and Greenway.
Fulfilled contractual obligations to Capitol Records.
Captures a transitional moment in April Wine history.
Attitude (1993)
The triumphant reunion album featuring Goodwyn, Greenway, Mercer, Clench, and Segal.
First studio album in 10 years achieved gold status in Canada.
Proved the members of April Wine still had their magic.
Frigate (1994)
Second reunion album continuing the successful comeback.
Features the reunited members of April Wine in peak form.
Demonstrates the band’s enduring songwriting abilities.
Back to the Mansion (2001)
First new release in seven years featuring the core lineup.
Includes Brian Greenway compositions “Holiday” and “In Your World.”
Showcases the mature sound of the members of April Wine in the 2000s.
Roughly Speaking (2006)
Celebrating their 37th anniversary with new studio material.
Jim Clench’s final studio album with the band before his departure.
A testament to the enduring creativity of the members of April Wine.
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Frequently Asked Questions About April Wine Members
Who were the original members of April Wine?
The original members of April Wine were Myles Goodwyn (guitar, vocals), David Henman (guitar, vocals), Ritchie Henman (drums, keyboards), and Jim Henman (bass, vocals). The band formed in Waverley, Nova Scotia in the fall of 1969, with their first official rehearsal taking place on December 1, 1969.
Are any members of April Wine still alive?
Yes, most of the key members of April Wine are still alive and active. Brian Greenway (73) continues to lead the current April Wine lineup. Jerry Mercer (85) is alive and performing with The JerryCo Band. Gary Moffet remains active in music. Sadly, Myles Goodwyn passed away in December 2023, Jim Clench died in 2010, and Steve Lang died in 2017.
What are the members of April Wine doing now?
The current members of April Wine—Brian Greenway, Richard Lanthier, Roy Nichol, and Marc Parent—continue to tour extensively across North America and Europe. Greenway also performs with his side project Brian Greenway’s Blues Bus. Jerry Mercer leads The JerryCo Band. Gary Moffet works in music production and performs occasionally. Sadly, founder Myles Goodwyn passed away in December 2023 at age 75.
Why did Jim Clench leave April Wine?
Jim Clench left the members of April Wine in 1975 after disagreements with the rest of the band concerning musical direction. He went on to join Bachman-Turner Overdrive in 1978. Clench later rejoined April Wine during their 1992 reunion and remained until 2006. He passed away in 2010 from lung cancer at age 61.
How many members did April Wine have?
Throughout their 55-year history, the members of April Wine have included over 15 different musicians. The band started as a four-piece in 1969, briefly expanded to a five-piece when Brian Greenway joined in 1977, and currently performs as a four-piece. The only constant throughout most of the band’s history was founder Myles Goodwyn, who remained with the band from 1969 until his retirement in 2022.
💡 Did You Know?
April Wine was the first Canadian band to have a music video played on MTV when it launched in August 1981! The video for “Just Between You and Me” helped introduce American audiences to the members of April Wine and propelled them to their highest US chart positions.
Final Thoughts on the Members of April Wine
The story of the members of April Wine is a testament to the power of perseverance, musical evolution, and the enduring appeal of great rock music.
From their humble beginnings in a small Nova Scotia community to becoming one of Canada’s most successful rock exports, April Wine navigated countless lineup changes, industry challenges, and personal struggles to create a legacy that spans over five decades.
The band’s impressive statistics tell only part of the story: 21 Top 40 singles, over 20 million albums sold, 5 platinum or multi-platinum albums, 11 Juno nominations, and inductions into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame, and Canada’s Walk of Fame.
What truly matters is the impact the members of April Wine had on Canadian rock music and the countless fans whose lives were enriched by their music.
While founding member Myles Goodwyn is no longer with us, his musical legacy lives on through the current band and the timeless songs he created.
Brian Greenway and the current members of April Wine continue to honor that legacy, introducing new generations to classics like “Roller,” “I Like to Rock,” and “Just Between You and Me.”
For fans of classic rock artists, April Wine represents the best of what Canadian rock had to offer: memorable melodies, powerful performances, and an authentic connection with their audience that never wavered.
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This article contains affiliate links to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. This helps support the site and allows me to continue bringing you classic rock content about the members of April Wine and other legendary bands. All album recommendations are based on their musical merit and historical significance. Thank you for supporting independent music journalism!
Sources
- 📄 Wikipedia: April Wine
- 📄 Wikipedia: List of April Wine Band Members
- 📄 Wikipedia: Myles Goodwyn
- 📄 Wikipedia: Brian Greenway
- 📄 Wikipedia: Jim Clench
- 📄 Wikipedia: Jerry Mercer
- 📄 April Wine Official Website
- 📄 The Canadian Encyclopedia: April Wine
- 📄 Canada’s Walk of Fame
- 📄 CBC News: Jim Clench Obituary
Last updated: December 10, 2025
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