Released in July 1975, “Action” marked a bold shift in Sweet’s sound. Known for their bubblegum glam rock hits like “Ballroom Blitz” and “Little Willy”, this track pushed the band into heavier, more aggressive territory—and fans loved it.
With snarling vocals, razor-sharp guitars, and an almost proto-metal energy, “Action” delivers a fierce message to critics, media, and anyone who ever doubted them. It’s Sweet’s defiant roar—and one of their most influential tracks.
Sweet – Action
Chart Performance: “Action” hit #15 in the UK and #20 on the US Billboard Hot 100—a transatlantic success that solidified Sweet’s global rock status.
Message to the Media: The song was Sweet’s response to how the press had misrepresented and mocked them. The lyrics are biting and unapologetic.
Influence on Queen?: The multi-tracked, operatic middle section of “Action” is often compared to Queen’s style. In fact, Queen once considered covering the track.
Heavier Sound: This was one of the first tracks to showcase Sweet’s shift from glam pop to hard rock, setting the stage for their later albums like “Give Us a Wink”.
Covered by Def Leppard: In 1993, Def Leppard paid tribute by recording a popular cover of “Action”, bringing it to a new generation of rock fans.
