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Showaddywaddy: A Rock'n'Roll Band and a Blast from the Past
- Jonathan Dean
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 11
Saturday was a thrilling journey back in time when M took me (I went willingly) to see Showaddywaddy live. I reminded M that Romeo Challenger is the only original member still performing with the band.
Showaddywaddy in History
I remember Showaddywaddy from their heyday in the 1970s and 1980s. My uncle worked as a stage manager at the BBC in the UK. When I was about 10 years old, I appeared on "Multi-Coloured Swap Shop," a Saturday morning kids' show. I received a 'goodie bag' as a reward for being on the show. This bag included an LP of Showaddywaddy!
The 'goodie bag' contained items from each of the guests on the show that week. Although I would have met them, I cannot remember the encounter.
Showaddywaddy had a string of top 40 singles from 1974 to 1982. Their first hit was "Hey Rock and Roll," and their last was "Who Put the Bomp (in the Bomp-a-Bomp-a-Bomp)."
The Hits You Might Know
You'll thoroughly enjoy this trip down memory lane. Showaddywaddy's music style is rooted in the early US Rock 'n' Roll of the 1950s, transitioning into the early 1960s. Many of their hits were covers that had been previously performed by other artists. Here are some notable examples:
Three Steps to Heaven: Originally performed by Eddie Cochran, this song charted in both the USA and the UK in 1960. It became a hit for Showaddywaddy in 1975.
Heartbeat: This song was performed by Buddy Holly in 1958. Initially a minor hit for Holly in the USA, it reached the top 30 a year later in the UK. Showaddywaddy took it to number 7 in the singles chart in 1975.
Under the Moon of Love: This song, originally performed by Curtis Lee in 1961, was a minor hit for him in the USA. However, it spent three weeks at number one in the UK chart for Showaddywaddy in 1976.
Pretty Little Angel Eyes: Also performed by Curtis Lee in 1961, this song gave Lee a number 7 slot on the USA Billboard 100. Showaddywaddy received a number 5 position when they released it in the UK in 1978.
These covers were complemented by original songs like "Hey Rock 'n' Roll," which was their first hit in 1974, the year after they formed. This song reached number 2 in the UK single chart.
Saturday Night Live
As I mentioned, only Romeo Challenger, the band's drummer, is still touring with the band. The original lead singer, Dave Bartram, has now taken on the role of the band's manager. The rest of Showaddywaddy consists of new recruits. The current lead singer has been with the group for 14 years, which was announced on Saturday night.
Previously, I watched the band live after appearing on the Saturday Swap Shop during a vacation at Butlins, a chalet-style holiday camp that has maintained its 1950s charm. This show lasted about an hour. Though I consumed much alcohol that weekend, I remember it being enjoyable!
One thing you immediately notice is the vibrant 'teddy boy' jackets they wear. This attire is reminiscent of the rock 'n' roll era and their music style. They've always embraced flamboyant jackets.
Their music is high-octane Rock 'n' Roll from the moment they step on stage. For two hours, they deliver an exhilarating set that ends with "Hey Rock 'n' Roll." They performed all the hits mentioned earlier, along with Rock 'n' Roll standards that may not have been hits for the band but are representative of the era. You probably know all the lyrics to these songs!
I left the concert without my voice and my arm ached from the signature "air fist punch" I performed every time "Hey Rock 'n' Roll" played! With a ticket costing about £30 each, this was a fantastic live music evening—just the kind M and I enjoy. So, would I recommend seeing Showaddywaddy? If you're looking for a fun night out, then absolutely!
Conclusion: Reliving the Magic
Seeing Showaddywaddy live was not just a concert; it was a nostalgic experience that brought back a flood of memories. Their music transcends generations, making it enjoyable for both those who grew up with it and new fans alike.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, attending a Showaddywaddy concert is sure to be a delightful evening. If you're interested in more experiences like this, you can explore my blog for insights and recommendations.
Until next time!
About the Author
Jon describes himself as a frustrated musician with a passion for the electronic instruments that help him and other musicians be creative. He started playing keyboards in his late teens and re-ignited his passion, building a new studio following his separation.
About the Blog
The Music Tech Guy UK's Blog, Website, and YouTube channel were started to share Jon's experiences and views on the industry at large, how they affect small musicians, and provide technical tips on configuring and maintaining the equipment he owns.
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