Dave Bartram Reflects on Showaddywaddy’s Enduring Success During Emotional Homecoming Performance
LOUGHBOROUGH, England — During a performance at Loughborough Town Hall on August 31, 2019, Showaddywaddy founder and longtime frontman Dave Bartram delivered a heartfelt speech that celebrated both the band’s remarkable longevity and the unwavering support of its audience over several decades.
Speaking from the stage, Bartram expressed his gratitude for the continued affection shown toward Showaddywaddy, a group that first rose to prominence in the 1970s with a string of hit singles and albums. His remarks came at a time when the band was enjoying renewed chart success, an achievement he admitted had exceeded his expectations.
Bartram noted that he could never have imagined that, 37 years after the group’s last Top 10 album, Showaddywaddy would once again find itself among the United Kingdom’s Top 10 releases in 2019. The accomplishment clearly carried deep personal significance for him, as he reflected on the band’s long journey and the loyalty that had sustained it.
Throughout his speech, Bartram emphasized that the group’s success was rooted not only in its music but also in years of dedication and hard work. He praised the musicians and team members who continued to keep the band active on the road, highlighting their commitment to delivering strong performances night after night. His comments conveyed a sense of pride in the professionalism and perseverance that had allowed Showaddywaddy to remain relevant long after many of their contemporaries had faded from the spotlight.
The occasion also held special meaning because it took place in Loughborough, the town closely associated with the band’s origins. Bartram reminisced about his younger years in the area, recalling memories from his teenage days and reflecting on how much had changed since he first began pursuing music. The nostalgic tone of his remarks added a personal dimension to the evening, linking the band’s present success with the place where its story began.
At several points, the atmosphere was marked by warm applause as Bartram acknowledged the people who had supported the group throughout its career. His words suggested both amazement and appreciation that the music continued to resonate decades after Showaddywaddy first emerged on the British music scene.
More than a celebration of chart positions, Bartram’s speech served as a reflection on endurance, gratitude, and the lasting connection between a band and the generations who have kept its music alive. It was a reminder that, even after decades in the industry, genuine appreciation for success and support can remain as powerful as ever.