Barry Blue: "Hot Shot" Single (1974)

Barry Blue’s "Hot Shot" backed with "Hobo Man", was released as a 7-inch vinyl single in the UK by Bell Records (catalog number BELL 1379) on September 20, 1974.

A-Side: "Hot Shot"

B-Side: "Hobo Man"

Label: Bell Records (UK)

Catalog Number: BELL 1379

Release Date: 20 September 1974

Format: 7" vinyl single, 45 RPM

Genre: Glam Rock / Pop Rock

Producer: Barry Blue

Track Details

Hot Shot:

The A-side, "Hot Shot," is a glam rock track co-written by Barry Blue and

Lynsey de Paul, a frequent collaborator during his early career.

It was a moderate success, reaching No. 23 on the UK Singles Chart in October 1974 and No. 3 in Zimbabwe, marking it as Blue's final Top 40 hit in the UK during his initial chart run.

Hobo Man:

The B-side, "Hobo Man," is less documented but complements the A-side with a similar pop-rock vibe, likely showcasing Blue’s storytelling style in his songwriting.

Specific details about "Hobo Man," such as its lyrical content or chart performance, are scarce, but it was part of the single’s release and is noted in discographies.

Review from Record and Popswop Mirror, 28th September 1974.

Chart Performance:

The UK chart position (No. 23) and Zimbabwe chart position (No. 3).

Context and Background

Barry Blue’s Career:

Barry Blue, originally Barry Ian Green, adopted his stage name after signing with Bell Records in 1973, following advice that "Green" was considered an unlucky color in some circles. His earlier singles as Barry Green (1971–1974) were unsuccessful, but his switch to the stage name Barry Blue coincided with his breakthrough.

Blue had already achieved success with earlier hits like "Dancin' (on a Saturday Night)" (No. 2, 1973) and "Do You Wanna Dance?" (No. 7, 1973), both of which established him as a prominent figure in the UK glam rock and pop scene.

By 1974, Blue was a known performer, appearing on major TV shows and touring with acts like Queen, ABBA, and Status Quo. His music was part of the vibrant UK pop and glam rock movement, competing with other chart acts of the time.

Germany - Bell - 1974

Bell Records:

Bell Records UK, the label behind this single, was a significant player in the 1970s music scene. By 1974, it was undergoing a transition under Clive Davis, who was revitalizing Columbia Pictures’ music division, leading to the creation of Arista Records later that year. Some Bell releases, including Barry Blue’s work, were later reissued on Arista.

Release and Reception:

It followed his earlier 1974 single "School Love" / "Hi-Cool Woman" (BELL 1345), which reached No. 11 in the UK.

"Hot Shot" was included in Blue’s 1974 album Hot Shots, released on Bell Records (catalog BELLS 238 in some markets). The album and single reflect Blue’s signature sound, blending pop accessibility with glam rock energy.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Released in 1974, "Hot Shot" / "Hobo Man" came at a time when glam rock was peaking in the UK, with artists like T. Rex, David Bowie, and Slade dominating charts. Blue’s music fit into this scene but leaned more toward pop accessibility, appealing to a broad audience.

The single’s release coincided with Bell Records’ final year as a standalone label before its integration into Arista, marking it as part of a transitional period in the music industry.

France - Barclay - 1974

Barry Blue’s Broader Impact:

Beyond performing, Blue was a prolific songwriter and producer, contributing to hits for artists like Andrea Bocelli, Diana Ross, Celine Dion, and others. His work extended to film and TV soundtracks, including Eyes of Laura Mars and The Long Good Friday.

In 1975, Blue co-wrote "Kiss Me Kiss Your Baby" for Brotherhood of Man, a million-seller, and in 1977, he co-wrote "Devil’s Gun" for C.J. & Company, which became the first song played at the opening of Studio 54.