Slade: "Far Far Away" Single (1974)

Slade’s “Far Far Away” 7-inch vinyl single, was released in the UK on October 11, 1974, on Polydor Records (catalogue: 2058 522). Backed with “O.K. Yesterday Was Yesterday,” this single, drawn from the soundtrack album Slade in Flame (released November 1974), marked a reflective moment for the Wolverhampton glam rockers. Written by Noddy Holder and Jim Lea, the A-side’s wistful melody and evocative lyrics became one of Slade’s most enduring hits, peaking at No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. Its introspective tone contrasted with their earlier raucous anthems, showcasing the band’s versatility during their glam peak.

Single Overview

A-Side: “Far Far Away” (3:37)

Written by Noddy Holder and Jim Lea. A melodic, nostalgic rocker inspired by Holder’s homesickness during a 1973 US tour, with lyrics like “I’ve seen the yellow lights go down the Mississippi” evoking longing for home. Its gentle acoustic strums, soaring chorus, and Holder’s emotive vocals made it a standout. Produced by Chas Chandler, it was recorded at The Record Plant, New York, during Flame sessions.

B-Side: “O.K. Yesterday Was Yesterday” (3:51)

Written by Holder and Lea. A punchy, upbeat glam track with Slade’s signature stomping rhythm and layered harmonies, reflecting on moving forward from the past. Less celebrated but a solid B-side, it complemented the A-side’s introspective vibe with raw energy.

Release Details:

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

Format: 7-inch vinyl single, housed in a Polydor company sleeve or promotional picture sleeve featuring the band’s Slade in Flame artwork.

Notes: Issued to promote the Slade in Flame film and soundtrack, a gritty drama about a fictional band’s rise and fall. Some pressings include matrix numbers like 2058 522 A//1 for authenticity.

Production and Context

Recorded in 1974 at The Record Plant, New York, the single was produced by Chas Chandler, Slade’s longtime manager and former Animals bassist, who polished their raw energy into a radio-friendly sound. The lineup featured Noddy Holder (vocals, guitar), Dave Hill (guitar), Jim Lea (bass, keyboards), and Don Powell (drums). “Far Far Away” emerged from Holder’s tour experiences, with Lea’s melody adding a cinematic quality tied to the Flame film’s narrative.

Released during Slade’s glam rock dominance, it followed hits like “Cum On Feel the Noize” and competed in a vibrant UK chart scene alongside acts like David Bowie and Roxy Music.

Chart Performance

“Far Far Away” was a major hit, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart in October 1974, held off the top spot by John Denver’s “Annie’s Song.” It charted for 10 weeks, earning silver certification (250,000 copies sold). Internationally, it performed strongly:

No. 1 in Norway (12 weeks on chart).

No. 1 in Ireland.

No. 3 in Germany.

No. 8 in Australia.

No. 13 in Belgium (Flanders).

No. 14 in the Netherlands.

The single’s global reach underscored Slade’s international appeal, particularly in Europe, though it didn’t chart in the US despite the band’s efforts there.

Cover of Slade's "Far Far Away" single, released by Polydor in Germany, catalogue number 2058 522.

Legacy and Collectibility

“Far Far Away” remains one of Slade’s signature songs, celebrated for its emotional depth and featured in Slade in Flame (1975), a cult film. It’s been covered by artists like The Mission and included in media like EastEnders and Top Gear.

Original 1974 UK vinyls fetch £5–£30 on Discogs, with picture sleeves or promo copies (e.g., with Polydor logos) commanding higher prices—verify matrix numbers to ensure authenticity.

The tracks are available on Spotify, with remasters from the Slade in Flame reissues (2007) preserving their warm analog sound.

This single captures Slade’s heartfelt side, a gleaming gem in their glam rock catalog.

Have you got this Slade single in your vinyl collection? Does “Far Far Away” tug at your heartstrings?

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