Shane Fenton: "Don't Do That" Single (1963)

Shane Fenton’s "Don't Do That", a single released on July 12, 1963.

(the stage name of Bernard Jewry, who later became known as Alvin Stardust) was released, by Parlophone Records (catalog number R 5047) in the UK, it was one of the final singles credited to Shane Fenton before the dissolution of his backing band, The Fentones, and his transition to a solo career. The single is a product of the early 1960s British beat and rock 'n' roll scene, reflecting the pre-Beatles era sound.

Release Details:

Format and Tracks: The single is a 7", 45 RPM vinyl with "Don't Do That" as the A-side (2:10) and "I'll Know" as the B-side (2:36). It was published by Dick James Music and May Music Ltd., with matrix numbers 7XCE 17385-1N (A-side) and 7XCE 17386-1N (B-side).

Streaming: The single is available on platforms like Apple Music and YouTube, with a 2013 digital release of "Don't Do That" as a single.

Musical and Lyrical Content

Genre and Style: The track falls within the rock 'n' roll and beat genres, typical of Shane Fenton and The Fentones' output, which was influenced by artists like The Shadows. The song features a lively, upbeat tempo suited for the early '60s pop and rock audience.

Lyrical Theme:

Specific lyrical content is not widely detailed in available sources, but given the era and Fenton's style, "Don't Do That" likely features playful or romantic themes common in teen pop and early rock 'n' roll. The B-side, "I'll Know," similarly aligns with the period's sentimental or lighthearted lyrical trends.

Production: The single was recorded under EMI's Parlophone label, with production typical of the early '60s British rock scene, emphasizing clean guitar riffs and a straightforward vocal delivery.

Chart Performance and Reception

Chart Performance: Unlike earlier Shane Fenton and The Fentones singles like "I'm a Moody Guy" (#22), "Walk Away" (#38), "It's All Over Now" (#29), and "Cindy's Birthday" (#19), "Don't Do That" did not chart in the UK Top 40. This lack of commercial success followed a pattern of diminishing returns for Fenton's later singles, contributing to the breakup of The Fentones in April 1963.

Label: Parlophone Country: UK Catalogue: R 5047

Reception: The single is considered a lesser-known entry in Fenton's discography and has not garnered significant critical attention compared to his earlier hits. However, it remains a collectible item for fans of early British rock and pre-Beatles beat music, as noted in reviews of compilations like Moody Guys - The Collectors' Shane Fenton & The Fentones. Fans appreciate its inclusion in retrospective collections for its historical value.

Context and Background

Shane Fenton's Career: Bernard Jewry assumed the stage name Shane Fenton after the original lead singer, Johnny Theakston, died of rheumatic fever in 1961 at age 17. Jewry, previously a roadie, took over as a tribute at the request of Theakston's mother. By 1963, Shane Fenton and The Fentones had seen moderate success with four Top 40 hits but struggled to maintain momentum as the British Invasion loomed. After "Don't Do That" and another solo single, "A Fool's Paradise," failed to chart, Jewry moved into music management before re-emerging as Alvin Stardust in the 1970s glam rock era.

Band Dissolution: The Fentones (Jerry Wilcock and Mick Eyre on guitars, Graham George Squires on bass, Tony Hinchcliffe on drums) disbanded in April 1963 after a tour with Larry Parnes, where they were billed low. "Don't Do That" was one of Fenton's solo efforts post-breakup, marking the end of his early career phase.

Cultural Significance: The single is a snapshot of the pre-Beatles British music scene, a time when acts like Shane Fenton filled the gap between skiffle and the Merseybeat explosion. Its lack of chart success reflects the competitive landscape as tastes shifted toward bands like The Beatles.

Label: 20th Century-Fox Country: USA Catalogue: 439

Availability: "Don't Do That" is included in collections like Moody Guys - The Collectors' Shane Fenton & The Fentones (Jasmine Records), which features their first eight singles and bonus tracks like live radio broadcasts and unreleased studio recordings. This compilation is praised for its comprehensive look at Fenton's early work, though some note the lo-fi quality of live tracks. The single is also part of digital releases on Apple Music, alongside other Fenton tracks like "Why Little Girl" and "It's Gonna Take Magic."

Cultural References: Shane Fenton's legacy, including "Don't Do That," is occasionally referenced in niche contexts, such as a mention in a Half Man Half Biscuit song, highlighting his cult status among music enthusiasts.

Conclusion: "Don't Do That" is a minor but noteworthy entry in Shane Fenton's discography, representing his final efforts as a solo artist before the transition to Alvin Stardust. Its lack of chart success reflects the challenges faced by early '60s acts amid a rapidly evolving music scene. For collectors and fans of pre-Beatles British rock, the single offers a glimpse into the era's sound and Fenton's early career. It remains accessible via streaming platforms and secondhand vinyl markets, with its historical value preserved in retrospective compilations.

Review from Billboard magazine Janyary 25, 1964:

SHANE FEΝΤΟΝ (20th C-Fox 439)

--"DON'T DO THAT" (2:05) [Spectorious BMI Vandyke]

Shane Fenton could make a strong showing with this ear-pleasing uptempo item rendered multi-track. A flavorful melody coupled with the chanter's feelingful delivery make for deejay recognition and brisk sales activity.

(B+) "I'LL KNOW" (2:30) [May-Jewry]

Fenton gives a low-register reading of this ballad ro-mancer with plenty of teen appeal. Side bears watching.