A Glamorous Breakthrough of the 70s: “My Coo Ca Choo” by Alvin Stardust
In 1973, the glam rock scene was set ablaze by “My Coo Ca Choo,” a breakout hit by Alvin Stardust. Released as the lead single from his debut solo album The Untouchable (1974), this track swiftly captured the imagination of fans with its infectious energy and catchy hook. The single soared to number two on the UK Singles Chart in December 1973 and achieved even greater success in Australia, where it topped the charts for an impressive seven weeks, becoming the best charting single of 1974 in that country.
The story behind “My Coo Ca Choo” is as fascinating as its irresistible melody. The song was written, sung, and recorded by Peter Shelley, who originally used the glam rock persona Alvin Stardust on the Lift Off television programme. Shelley was taken by surprise when the record rocketed into the charts just a week after its release. Not wanting to be confined to just a studio creation without a face to represent the act, he and his collaborator Levy agreed that if Alvin Stardust were to rise beyond a one-hit wonder, a proper stage presence was essential.
Enter Bernard William Jewry, who was performing under the name Shane Fenton at the time. Jewry perfectly embodied the rock ‘n’ roll charisma that the persona of Alvin Stardust required. Once he stepped into the spotlight, the transformation was complete. With his captivating performances on platforms like BBC Television’s Top of the Pops, the new face of Alvin Stardust quickly won over fans and helped propel “My Coo Ca Choo” to further success.
Building on the momentum, Peter Shelley continued to fuel the Stardust phenomenon with subsequent hits, most notably “Jealous Mind,” which reached number 1 in the UK in March 1974. Together, these songs cemented Alvin Stardust as an enduring icon of the glam rock era—a testament to the power of reinvention and the magic of a well-crafted pop hit.
“My Coo Ca Choo” remains a vibrant reminder of the exuberance of the 1970s, a time when bold personalities and catchy tunes reigned supreme. Its legacy endures not only in the charts but also in the hearts of those who remember the days when rock ‘n’ roll was defined by its glittering style and undeniable flair.