David Essex (September 5, 1975) – "Hold Me Close" b/w "Good Ol' Rock And Roll (Live Version)" Single: United Kingdom
Released in early September 1975, Hold Me Close became one of David Essex’s most successful singles. Written and performed by Essex and produced by Jeff Wayne, the track quickly resonated with UK audiences and climbed to the top of the charts.
Its warm, romantic tone aligned with Essex’s growing popularity as both a singer and actor during the mid‑1970s. The single’s B‑side, Good Ol’ Rock And Roll (Live Version), offered a contrasting live performance that showcased Essex’s stage presence and connection with his audience.
RECORDING
Recorded in 1975, the single reflects Essex’s collaboration with producer and arranger Jeff Wayne. The studio production emphasises Essex’s vocal warmth and melodic phrasing, while the B‑side captures the energy of his live performances.
STYLE & THEMES
Hold Me Close is a pop‑driven love song, built around Essex’s melodic delivery and Wayne’s polished arrangement.
The B‑side leans into nostalgic rock‑and‑roll themes, highlighting Essex’s versatility and ability to shift between studio intimacy and live performance energy.
TRACK‑BY‑TRACK NOTES
• Hold Me Close — A romantic pop single written by Essex, produced and arranged by Jeff Wayne, and notable for its three‑week stay at number one in the UK. • Good Ol' Rock And Roll (Live Version) — A live recording that contrasts the A‑side with a more upbeat, performance‑driven sound.
RELEASE HISTORY
Released 5 September 1975 in the UK as a 7" vinyl single on CBS. Catalogue number S CBS 3572. Reached number 1 on the UK Singles Chart, remaining there for three weeks. Issued internationally across multiple CBS territories.
CHARTS & CERTIFICATIONS
Weekly Charts • Australia — Peak 2 • UK Singles — Peak 1 • Rhodesia — Peak 1
Year‑End Charts • Australia — Peak 25
PERSONNEL
David Essex — vocals, songwriting Prince — Jeff Wayne — production, arrangement [Other personnel]
PRODUCTION
Produced by Jeff Wayne Label: CBS Catalogue numbers: • S CBS 3572
Artist: David Essex
Title: Hold Me Close
Label: CBS
Country: United Kingdom
Catalogue: S CBS 3572
Date: September 5, 1975
Format: 7" Single
Tracklist (7"):
A — Hold Me Close
B — Good Ol' Rock And Roll (Live Version)
Notes:
Linked releases include editions from Australia, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, USA (Columbia), and Yugoslavia.
A UK CBS re‑issue also appeared in 1978.
SOURCES Discogs, 45 World, Wikipedia. BBC Official Charts Prince Vault, Sleeveographia2
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