Dave Bartram Reflects on Showaddywaddy’s Remarkable Journey Through 1975 and 1976
In an interview recorded on May 10, 2025, Dave Bartram looked back on one of the most important periods in the history of Showaddywaddy, revisiting the band’s activities, recordings, tours, and chart successes during 1975 and 1976. The conversation offers a valuable glimpse into a time when the group was establishing itself as one of Britain’s most successful rock and roll revival acts.
The story begins at the MIDEM Festival in Cannes, France, on January 21, 1975. Showaddywaddy shared the spotlight with a diverse collection of artists including Elton John, Leo Sayer, Alvin Stardust, Van Morrison, Kiki Dee, and Kool & The Gang. The appearance highlighted the band’s growing profile at a time when the British music scene was rapidly evolving.
A major milestone followed with the release of “Sweet Music” on February 7, 1975. The single reached number 15 on the UK Singles Chart and became an important step in the group’s continuing rise. Bartram also discussed the band’s songwriting and recording process, offering insight into how Showaddywaddy balanced their love of classic rock and roll with the demands of creating new material.
Among the songs mentioned was “Windows,” a track that had originally appeared on the band’s debut album in 1974 before later being selected as the B side of “Sweet Music.” Its inclusion demonstrated how the group continued to draw from earlier recordings while refining its musical identity.
The year brought further success with “Three Steps To Heaven,” released on May 9, 1975. The single climbed to number 2 in the UK charts, confirming Showaddywaddy’s ability to connect with a broad audience. Touring remained an essential part of the band’s schedule, including planned performances across Ireland and Northern Ireland in August 1975.
Later that year, “Heartbeat” reached number 7 after its release on August 22, while “Heavenly,” released in November, entered the charts at number 34. These releases reflected a period of remarkable productivity for the group.
The discussion then moved into 1976. “Trocadero” was released on April 30 and reached number 32 in the UK charts. Bartram also recalled material such as “Walk Don’t Run,” originally an instrumental associated with The Ventures, and discussed the background of “Teenage Love Affair,” a song long believed to have been intended for the Bay City Rollers.
One of the highlights of 1976 was Showaddywaddy’s appearance on the television program “Superpop,” broadcast on July 31, where the band performed several songs live. Yet the defining achievement came later that year with “Under The Moon of Love.” Released on October 15, the single became Showaddywaddy’s first UK number one hit, holding the top position for three weeks in December.
As the interview concludes, Bartram reflects on a transformative era that combined relentless touring, chart success, television appearances, and changing musical trends. His recollections capture a band at the height of its powers, preserving an important chapter in British popular music history.