David Essex: "Hold Me Close" Single (1975)

David Essex’s "Hold Me Close" backed with "Good Ol' Rock and Roll (Live Version)", was released as a 7-inch vinyl single in the UK by CBS Records (catalog number S CBS 3572) on September 5, 1975, as the lead single from his third studio album All the Fun of the Fair, becoming one of his biggest hits.

UK - CBS - 1975

Chart Performance:

A major success, it reached #1 on the UK Singles Chart for three weeks in October 1975, Essex’s second UK #1 after "Gonna Make You a Star" (1974). It also hit #2 in Ireland and charted in other regions, though it had limited impact in the US, where Essex’s singles generally performed modestly compared to the UK.

A-Side: "Hold Me Close" (3:51):

Written by David Essex and produced by Jeff Wayne, this is a romantic, upbeat pop-rock ballad with glam rock influences, featuring Essex’s charismatic vocals and a catchy, singalong chorus (“Hold me close, don’t let me go”). The lyrics are tender yet playful, capturing Essex’s knack for blending heartfelt emotion with pop accessibility.

Musically, it features a tight rhythm section with Herbie Flowers (bass), Chris Spedding (guitar), and Barry De Souza (drums), alongside Jeff Wayne’s orchestral arrangements, including strings and brass that add a theatrical flair. The production is polished, aligning with the glam rock sound of 1975.

The song’s romantic theme and Essex’s heartthrob image made it a radio and Top of the Pops favorite, resonating with fans during his peak popularity.

It remains a staple in Essex’s live performances and is widely available on streaming platforms, often cited as a quintessential 1970s pop hit.

B-Side: "Good Ol' Rock and Roll (Live Version)" (4:25):

Written by David Essex and produced by Jeff Wayne, this is a live rendition of a track from the David Essex album (1974), showcasing his energetic stage presence.

The song is a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll medley, blending original lyrics with a nod to 1950s rock influences, performed with a glam rock edge. The live version captures Essex’s charisma as a performer, backed by his touring band, likely including Spedding, Flowers, and De Souza.

Recorded during a 1974 or 1975 live performance (exact venue not specified in sources), it emphasizes Essex’s theatrical style, honed through his acting roles in That’ll Be the Day (1973) and Stardust (1974).

Less prominent than the A-side, it’s a fan favorite for its raw energy and rarity, appearing only on the single and select compilations.

Portugal - CBS - 1975

Context and Background

David Essex in 1975:By 1975, David Essex was a major UK star, blending music and acting. His 1973 hit “Rock On” (#3 UK, #5 US) and 1974’s “Gonna Make You a Star” (#1 UK) established him as a glam rock icon, while his film roles in That’ll Be the Day and Stardust made him a teen idol.

All the Fun of the Fair, released in September 1975, reached #3 on the UK Albums Chart and was a commercial success, driven by “Hold Me Close” and its follow-up single “Rolling Stone” (#5 UK). Produced by Jeff Wayne, the album continued Essex’s blend of glam rock, pop, and theatrical elements.

Essex’s heartthrob status and media presence, including TV appearances and magazine covers, amplified the single’s success, making it a cultural touchstone of the era.

Musical and Cultural Significance:

“Hold Me Close” is a defining glam rock ballad, balancing romance with Essex’s cheeky charm. Its #1 status and radio ubiquity made it a 1975 staple, competing with hits like Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” and 10cc’s “I’m Not in Love.”

The song’s accessible melody and lush production reflect Jeff Wayne’s orchestral expertise, later showcased in War of the Worlds (1978). It appealed to both pop and glam rock audiences, cementing Essex’s versatility.

The B-side, “Good Ol' Rock and Roll (Live Version),” highlights Essex’s roots in 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, a nod to his role as a rock star in Stardust. Its live energy captures his dynamic stage persona, a key part of his appeal.

The single’s release aligned with the peak of glam rock, just as punk was emerging, making Essex a bridge between the theatricality of glam and the raw energy of what followed.

Yugoslavia - CBS - 1975

Chart Performance and Reception:

UK: Held #1 for three weeks in October 1975, outperforming “Gonna Make You a Star” in chart longevity and solidifying Essex’s star status.

International: Reached #2 in Ireland, #72 in Australia, and charted in European markets like Germany and the Netherlands. Its limited US impact reflects Essex’s stronger UK/European fanbase.

Critics praised “Hold Me Close” for its catchy melody and Essex’s vocal delivery, with AllMusic calling it a “glam pop gem.” Retrospective reviews on RateYourMusic (3.8/5) highlight its nostalgic appeal, though some note its production as quintessentially 1970s.

The B-side is less reviewed but appreciated by fans for its live energy, as seen in YouTube comments on Essex’s 1970s performances.

All the Fun of the Fair was a critical and commercial success, with “Hold Me Close” driving its #3 UK chart peak and global sales.

Streaming and Compilations:

“Hold Me Close” is widely available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube as part of All the Fun of the Fair or compilations like The Best of David Essex (1996), Greatest Hits (2006), and The Essential David Essex (2011).

“Good Ol' Rock and Roll (Live Version)” is less accessible, appearing primarily on the original single and rare reissues. The studio version is on the David Essex album (1974).

Additional Notes

Musicians and Production:

Produced by Jeff Wayne, the single features Essex’s core band: Chris Spedding (guitar), Herbie Flowers (bass), Mike Moran (keyboards), and Barry De Souza (drums). Wayne’s orchestral arrangements add a cinematic quality to “Hold Me Close.”

The B-side’s live recording likely captures a 1974–1975 performance, possibly from a UK tour tied to David Essex or All the Fun of the Fair promotions.

Recorded at AIR Studios, London, the single’s polished sound reflects Wayne’s production expertise and Essex’s glam rock aesthetic.

Spain - CBS - 1975

Cultural Context:

Released in 1975, “Hold Me Close” thrived in a glam rock-dominated UK scene, alongside Queen, Slade, and emerging disco influences. Its romantic tone and Essex’s heartthrob image made it a teen favorite.

Essex’s acting career, particularly Stardust (1974), amplified his music’s reach, with the single’s success tied to his Top of the Pops appearances and media presence.

The B-side’s live rock ‘n’ roll energy connects to Essex’s roots in 1950s music, a recurring theme in his work and film roles.

Legacy:

“Hold Me Close” remains one of Essex’s signature hits, frequently performed live and featured in retrospectives of 1970s pop and glam rock.

Its #1 status and cultural resonance make it a cornerstone of Essex’s catalog, alongside “Rock On” and “Gonna Make You a Star.”

The B-side, while less iconic, showcases Essex’s live prowess, appealing to fans of his theatrical performances.