Single flashback
Too Bad - Doug and the Slugs [1980]
Doug and the Slugs rarely did anything in the conventional manner.
Frontman Doug Bennett moved from Toronto to Vancouver in the early 70s, which if you’re trying to make it in Canada at the time might have been seen as a backwards step.
Putting the original Slugs lineup together in 1977, they worked hard to build a live following by promoting their own shows.
They also had their own label - Ritdong Records - in a time when this was not the norm.
Hell, Bennett even used his background as a graphic designer to design the sleeve art for their debut release ‘Cognac and Bologna’.
Yes, Doug was a renaissance man.
This record produced three singles, including the ‘would never get made today’ breakup track ‘Chinatown Calculation’ - which is catchy as hell, but…
As for ‘Too Bad’, it showcases the band’s party vibe, Bennett’s slick and original lyrics, and some throwback doo-wop vocals.
Throw in another innovation - a music video - that was yet to hit the mainstream and you can see why everyone though highly of Doug and the Slugs.
Sadly, Bennett passed away in 2004 - but not before leaving us with some unforgettable tunes.
Too Bad - Doug and the Slugs - peaked #20 [1980]
“Too Bad” shows exactly why Doug and the Slugs earned their place in Canadian pop history. The track is bright, catchy, and built on the kind of clean, clever songwriting Doug Bennett never got enough credit for.
I totally remember them — but I don’t think it was this song. I feel like it didn’t have a 50’s vibe like this one. I’ll have to listen to more of their stuff.