“Three Steps to Heaven”: A Vibrant Blast from the Past, Celebrating Youthful Love and the Enduring Spirit of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
For those of us who came of age amidst the colorful explosion of glam rock and the burgeoning nostalgia for the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll, Showaddywaddy was more than just a band; they were a joyous spectacle, a living, breathing tribute to the exuberance of the 1950s. With their signature Teddy Boy attire, dynamic stage presence, and an unwavering commitment to catchy, upbeat tunes, they carved out a unique niche in the 1970s British music scene. Among their many beloved hits, their spirited cover of Eddie Cochran’s classic, “Three Steps to Heaven,” stands as a shining example of their infectious energy and their ability to imbue familiar tunes with a fresh, irresistible charm. Released in 1975 as a single, this song wasn’t just a nostalgic nod; it was a vibrant, foot-tapping affirmation of youthful romance and the timeless allure of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll.
Upon its release, Showaddywaddy’s version of “Three Steps to Heaven” proved to be a resounding success, particularly in their native UK. It soared up the UK Singles Chart, reaching an impressive number 2 in 1975. This strong chart performance underscored the band’s widespread appeal and their uncanny knack for transforming beloved classics into contemporary hits. While it didn’t achieve the same chart dominance in the United States, it remained a firm favorite on British airwaves and became a staple of their energetic live performances. For many of us tuning into the radio or watching Top of the Pops during that era, the sight and sound of Showaddywaddy launching into this tune was an instant mood-lifter, a welcome burst of cheerful retro-cool amidst the evolving musical landscape.
The story behind “Three Steps to Heaven” is a fascinating blend of homage and reinvention. The song was originally written and recorded by the rock and roll icon Eddie Cochran in 1960. Cochran’s original was a raw, energetic slice of early rock ‘n’ roll, showcasing his distinctive vocal style and guitar prowess. Tragically, Cochran died in a car accident just a day after recording the song, making its posthumous release a bittersweet legacy. Fast forward to the mid-1970s, and Showaddywaddy emerged from Leicester, England, with a mission to bring back the spirit of 1950s rock and pop. Comprising a unique eight-man lineup often featuring two vocalists and two drummers, the band (including Dave Bartram, Buddy Gask, Malcolm Allured, Romeo Challenger, Russ Field, Trevor Oakes, Al James, and Rod Deas) became renowned for their faithful yet vibrant interpretations of classic songs. Their decision to cover “Three Steps to Heaven” was a natural fit for their retro-leaning sound and their dedication to the foundational anthems of rock ‘n’ roll. They approached the song not with an intent to merely copy, but to inject it with their own distinctive, high-octane stage presence and robust vocal harmonies, making it unmistakably their own while honoring its origins.
The meaning of “Three Steps to Heaven” is beautifully straightforward and universally relatable: it’s a celebration of youthful, intoxicating love. The “three steps” refer to the simple, yet profoundly exciting, stages of a budding romance: “one for your kiss,” “two for your touch,” and “three for our love.” It captures that breathless, dizzying feeling of being utterly smitten, where every small gesture from a loved one feels like a step closer to pure bliss, a climb to an almost celestial state of happiness. Showaddywaddy’s rendition amplifies this sense of uncomplicated joy and earnest affection. Their enthusiastic delivery, layered vocals, and tight instrumentation imbue the song with an infectious optimism that transcends any potential cynicism.
For older readers, this song is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a vibrant portal to a time when life felt perhaps less complicated, when falling in love held a certain unblemished purity, and when the simple rhythm of a good rock and roll song could make the world feel right. It evokes memories of first crushes, innocent dates, and the timeless thrill of young hearts entwined. As we listen to Showaddywaddy’s joyous take on “Three Steps to Heaven” today, it serves as a wonderful reminder of the enduring power of classic melodies and the simple, yet profound, happiness found in the most basic steps of love. It’s a testament to a band that understood the assignment perfectly: to make you smile, to make you dance, and to remind you that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, and youthful romance, is truly eternal.