Slade: "Rock 'n' Roll Bolero" Single (1978)

Slade’s “Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” 7-inch vinyl single, was released in the UK on October 13, 1978, on Barn Records (catalogue: 2014 127). Backed with “It’s Alright Buy Me,” this non-album single followed the band’s reflective Elvis tribute from the previous year, showcasing their attempt to blend their signature glam rock sound with a nod to classical influences during a challenging period.

Produced by Chas Chandler, the A-side’s ambitious orchestration met with mixed reception, peaking at No. 51 on the UK Singles Chart, reflecting Slade’s struggle to regain chart dominance in the late ‘70s punk and new wave era.

Single Overview

A-Side: “Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” (3:50)

Written by Noddy Holder and Jim Lea. A bold experiment combining Slade’s raucous rock energy with a bolero-inspired orchestral arrangement, featuring strings and a rhythmic nod to Ravel’s Bolero. Holder’s gritty vocals and Lea’s multi-instrumental flair drive this theatrical track, aiming for a grand, cinematic feel. Published by Barn Publishing (Slade) Ltd.

B-Side: “It’s Alright Buy Me” (3:22)

Written by Holder and Lea. A punchy, upbeat rock track with Slade’s characteristic stomping beat and cheeky lyrics, evoking their early ‘70s anthems. A non-album cut, it offered fans a familiar dose of the band’s raw energy. Also published by Barn Publishing (Slade) Ltd.

Release Details:

Label: Barn Records (UK pressing, 45 RPM, typically with a small center hole).

Format: 7-inch vinyl single, issued in a Barn Records company die-cut sleeve or limited promotional picture sleeve featuring the band.

Notes: Produced for Barn Productions Ltd., ℗ 1978 Barn Records Ltd. Released in the UK and select European markets. Matrix numbers (e.g., 2014 127 A//1) verify authenticity. The single was not tied to a specific album, following Whatever Happened to Slade (1977).

Production and Context

Recorded in 1978 at a London studio (likely Portland or Advision, as used for prior Barn releases), the single was produced by Chas Chandler, Slade’s longtime manager and former Animals bassist. The lineup featured Noddy Holder (vocals, guitar), Dave Hill (guitar), Jim Lea (bass, keyboards, backing vocals), and Don Powell (drums).

“Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” reflected Lea’s interest in classical structures, but its

orchestral ambition was divisive, with some fans missing the band’s raw glam punch. Released amid punk’s dominance and new wave’s rise, Slade struggled to compete with emerging acts like The Clash, yet their loyal fanbase kept them touring.

Chart Performance

“Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” peaked at No. 51 on the UK Singles Chart, charting for three weeks in October 1978—a modest showing compared to Slade’s earlier No. 1 hits like “Cum On Feel the Noize.” It marked their continued chart decline after “My Baby Left Me / That’s All Right” (No. 32 in 1977). Internationally, the single saw limited releases in countries like Germany and Belgium but failed to chart significantly, reflecting Slade’s waning global traction as punk overshadowed glam.

Cover art for Slade's single "Rock 'N' Roll Bolero," released in Germany on November 3, 1978, under the Barn label.

Legacy and Collectibility

“Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” is a curious entry in Slade’s catalog, praised by some for its bold experimentation but critiqued by others as overproduced.

The B-side “It’s Alright Buy Me” is often favored by fans for its classic Slade energy, later appearing on compilations like B-Sides (2007). Original 1978 UK vinyls fetch £5–£25 on Discogs, with picture sleeves or promo copies valued higher—check matrix numbers to avoid reissues.

Tracks are available on Spotify, with remasters preserving their analog warmth, though the single remains a lesser-known gem from Slade’s late ‘70s output.

This single captures Slade’s adventurous spirit in a transitional era—a collectible for dedicated glam rock fans.

Have you unearthed this Slade single in your vinyl stash? Does “Rock ‘n’ Roll Bolero” spark your interest? Share in the comments!