Alvin Stardust: "My Coo Ca Choo" Single (1973)

Alvin Stardust’s “My Coo Ca Choo” 7-inch vinyl single, was released in the UK on October 5, 1973 by Magnet Records (catalogue: MAG 15).

Backed with “Pull Together,” this glam rock gem marked Stardust’s breakthrough under his new persona.

With its stomping beat, catchy hook, and Stardust’s vocals, the A-side became a No. 2 UK hit, embodying the era’s glittery pop energy.

Produced by Peter Shelley, the single launched Stardust’s solo career, blending rock ‘n’ roll swagger with glam flair. Notably, Peter Shelley performed the track as Alvin Stardust on Lift Off with Ayshea on October 24, 1973, dressed in a clown costume, before the official release.

A-Side: “My Coo Ca Choo” (3:30)

B-Side: “Pull Together” (3:15)

Label: Magnet Records (UK pressing, 45 RPM).

Format: 7-inch vinyl single.

Notes: Produced for Magnet Records Ltd. The single was Stardust’s debut under his stage name, following his Shane Fenton days. Matrix numbers (e.g., MAG 15 A-1) confirm authenticity. It entered the UK charts on November 3, 1973.

Recorded in 1973 at a UK studio, the single was produced by Peter Shelley, who wrote and originally performed it as Alvin Stardust. Stardust (real name Bernard Jewry) adopted a new identity with a black leather jacket and quiff. The lineup included session musicians, with Shelley on backing vocals. Released amid the UK glam boom, it competed with hits from Sweet and Slade, boosted by TV appearances on Top of the Pops and radio play. Shelley’s pre-release performance on Lift Off with Ayshea on October 24, 1973, in a clown costume, generated early buzz.

Chart Performance

“My Coo Ca Choo” was a smash hit:

UK: No. 2 (Official Singles Chart), charting for 16 weeks, certified Silver (250,000 copies sold), blocked from No. 1 by David Cassidy’s “Daydreamer” / “The Puppy Song.”

Ireland: No. 2.

Germany: No. 3.

Netherlands: No. 5.

Belgium: No. 6 (Flanders).

Australia: No. 12.

New Zealand: No. 15.

The single’s success propelled Stardust’s career, leading to follow-ups like “Jealous Mind” (No. 5 UK).

“My Coo Ca Choo” remains a glam classic, often featured in ‘70s compilations and media like Top of the Pops retrospectives. Its catchy hook influenced later pop acts.

Have you got this Alvin Stardust single in your vinyl stash? Does “My Coo Ca Choo” get you dancing? Share in the comments!