Roxy Music: "Virginia Plain" Single (1977)

A Glam Rock Reissue Gem

Roxy Music’s “Virginia Plain” 7-inch vinyl single, was re-released in the UK on October 7, 1977, on Polydor Records (catalogue: 2001 739). Backed with “Pyjamarama,” this reissue paired two of the band’s early glam rock hits, originally released in 1972 and 1973, to capitalize on their enduring popularity following the Viva! Roxy Music live album. Produced by Chris Thomas and John Anthony, the single showcased Bryan Ferry’s suave vocals and the band’s art-rock flair, reaching No. 11 on the UK Singles Chart. Housed in a picture sleeve with vibrant ‘70s artwork, it’s a prized collectible for glam enthusiasts.

Single Overview

A-Side: “Virginia Plain” (2:58)Written by Bryan Ferry. Originally released in 1972 (Island WIP 6144), this debut single is a frenetic glam anthem with Ferry’s quirky lyrics and Phil Manzanera’s searing guitar. Produced by Chris Thomas, it captures Roxy Music’s avant-garde energy, inspired by a painting by Ferry.

B-Side: “Pyjamarama” (2:52)Written by Bryan Ferry. Originally released in 1973 (Island WIP 6160), this follow-up single blends pop catchiness with art-rock edge, featuring Andy Mackay’s saxophone and Eno’s synths. Produced by John Anthony, it’s a playful nod to nocturnal romance.

Release Details:

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

Formats:

7-Inch Vinyl (2001 739): “Virginia Plain” / “Pyjamarama,” in a picture sleeve with band imagery.

No CD or cassette formats for this reissue.

Notes: ℗ 1977 Polydor Records. Reissued to promote Roxy Music’s catalog post-Viva! (1976). Matrix numbers (e.g., 2001 739 A-1) confirm authenticity.

Production and Context

“Virginia Plain” was recorded in 1972 at Command Studios, London, with Chris Thomas, featuring Bryan Ferry (vocals, piano), Phil Manzanera (guitar), Andy Mackay (saxophone, oboe), Brian Eno (synths), Paul Thompson (drums), and Rik Kenton (bass). “Pyjamarama” was recorded in 1973 at AIR Studios, produced by John Anthony, with John Gustafson on bass. The 1977 reissue followed Roxy Music’s brief hiatus and the punk explosion, leveraging their

glam legacy to compete with acts like The Sex Pistols.

Singles Released and Chart Performance

This 1977 reissue was a standalone single, with no additional singles tied to it:

Chart Performance (1977 Reissue):

UK: No. 11 (Official Singles Chart), charting for 7 weeks.

Ireland: No. 8.

Netherlands: No. 26 (Single Top 100).

Germany: No. 39.

Australia: No. 42.

Other Countries: No chart entries in US, Canada, France, Sweden, or New Zealand due to limited distribution.

Original releases:

“Virginia Plain” (1972): UK No. 4, Ireland No. 3, Germany No. 11, Australia No. 8.

“Pyjamarama” (1973): UK No. 10, Ireland No. 6, Germany No. 17.

Single Chart Performance

The 1977 reissue reached No. 11 in the UK, charting for 7 weeks, reflecting Roxy Music’s lasting appeal despite punk’s dominance.

Advert & Publicity:

a full-page advertisement accompanied the release

Roxy Music

Virginia Plain

Roxy Music

Virginia Plain Pyjamarama

THEIR MOST REQUESTED SINGLES AVAILABLE AGAIN ON ONE RECORD FIRST 50,000 IN FULL COLOUR BAGS

2001739

Order from Polydor's own distribution company: Phonodisc Limited, Clyde Works, Grove Road, Romford, Essex, RMO 4QR. Telephone: 01-5907766

Have you snagged this Roxy Music reissue in your vinyl collection? Which track sparks your glam vibe? Share in the comments!