Alvin Stardust

Was the stage name of Bernard William Jewry, an English pop singer and actor who became a notable figure in the glam rock movement of the 1970s. Here's an overview of his career, style, and impact:

Early Life:

Born: September 27, 1942, in Muswell Hill, London, England.

Career Beginnings:

1960s: Initially, Jewry performed under the name Shane Fenton, leading Shane Fenton and the Fentones, a band that scored minor hits with songs like "I'm a Moody Guy" and "Cindy's Birthday."

Rise as Alvin Stardust:

Transformation: In 1973, he adopted the name Alvin Stardust and underwent a significant image change, aligning himself with the glam rock genre. His new look included black leather outfits, a quiff hairstyle, and a brooding, theatrical stage presence.

Breakthrough Hit: "My Coo Ca Choo" became his first major hit under the Alvin Stardust name, reaching No. 2 in the UK in 1974. The song's catchy chorus and his distinctive style helped define his new persona.

Musical Success:

Hits: Following "My Coo Ca Choo," Stardust had several more hits in the UK, including:

"Jealous Mind" (No. 1 in 1974)

"You, You, You" (No. 6 in 1974)

"Red Dress" (No. 7 in 1974)

His music was characterized by a rock 'n' roll revival sound with glam rock aesthetics, focusing on love, jealousy, and teenage angst.

Albums: His albums included "The Untouchable" (1974) and "Alvin Stardust" (1975), though his chart success was mostly driven by singles.

Later Career:

Acting: Stardust also ventured into acting, appearing in various stage productions and TV shows. He played the character of the villain Mike Rawlins in the British soap opera "Hollyoaks" from 2003 to 2006.

Music Revival: In the 1980s, he attempted a comeback with a different musical style, including ballads, but didn't achieve the same level of success as in the '70s.

1990s and Beyond: Stardust continued performing, often on the nostalgia circuit, and was known for his energetic live shows. He also participated in reality TV and talent shows, including "Hit Me, Baby, One More Time" in 2005.

Personal Life:

Marriages: He was married three times, including to actress Liza Goddard, and had several children.

Death: Alvin Stardust passed away on October 23, 2014, from prostate cancer at the age of 72.

Legacy:

Cultural Impact: While his chart success was relatively short-lived, Alvin Stardust's contribution to glam rock was significant. His image and sound captured the essence of the era's theatricality and rock 'n' roll spirit.

Influence: He was part of a wave of artists who showed that reinvention could lead to success, influencing how performers could leverage style and image in music.

Recognition: Posthumously, his music continues to be celebrated for its part in the glam rock narrative, with "My Coo Ca Choo" and "Jealous Mind" often featured in retrospectives of the genre.

Alvin Stardust's career demonstrates the power of reinvention in music, moving from a 60s teen idol to a glam rock icon, leaving an indelible mark on British pop culture.