David Essex: "Gonna Make You a Star" Single (1974)

David Essex’s "Gonna Make You a Star" backed with "Window", was released as a 7-inch vinyl single in the UK by CBS Records (catalog number S CBS 2492) on September 27, 1974, as the lead single from his second studio album David Essex, becoming one of his signature hits.

United Kingdom - CBS - 1974

Chart Performance and Reception:

UK: Topped the UK Singles Chart for three weeks in November 1974, Essex’s first #1 hit, outshining earlier singles like “Rock On” (#3) and “Lamplight” (#71).

International: Reached #12 in Ireland, #14 in New Zealand, #35 in Australia, and charted in European markets like Germany. Its global appeal was driven by Essex’s film-star status and CBS’s distribution.

Critics praised the single’s infectious energy, with AllMusic calling it a “glam rock classic” and fans on RateYourMusic rating it 3.5/5 for its nostalgic appeal. Some retrospective reviews note its dated production but celebrate its cultural impact.

The David Essex album was a commercial success, reaching #12 in the UK and selling well internationally, though critics were mixed, with some feeling it leaned too heavily on glam tropes.

A-Side: "Gonna Make You a Star" (3:33):

Written by David Essex and produced by Jeff Wayne, this track is a vibrant glam rock anthem with a catchy melody and satirical lyrics about the fleeting nature of fame and the music industry (“I’m gonna make you a star / But it’s only a star for a season”). The song reflects Essex’s own rise to fame, blending irony with an infectious pop-rock sound.

Musically, it features a driving rhythm section, orchestral flourishes (arranged by Wayne), and Essex’s charismatic vocals, backed by his band, including Chris Spedding (guitar) and Herbie Flowers (bass). The production is polished, with a glam rock edge typical of 1974, akin to contemporaries like T. Rex or Slade.

The song’s success was boosted by Essex’s growing fame as an actor (notably in That’ll Be the Day and Stardust) and his heartthrob status, making it a cultural touchstone of the UK glam rock era.

It’s a staple on classic rock radio and appears in Essex’s live performances, as seen in YouTube clips from 1974 BBC sessions and later concerts.

Portugal - CBS - 1974

B-Side: "Window" (4:01):

Also written by David Essex and produced by Jeff Wayne, “Window” is a softer, introspective ballad from the David Essex album, contrasting the A-side’s upbeat energy.

The song features gentle acoustic guitar, subtle orchestration, and Essex’s emotive vocals, with lyrics exploring themes of longing and reflection, possibly inspired by his own experiences in the spotlight.

Backed by the same band, it showcases Essex’s versatility as a singer-songwriter, though it received less attention than the A-side.

Context and Background

David Essex in 1974:

David Essex, born David Albert Cook in 1947, was a rising star in 1974, blending music and acting. His debut album, Rock On (1973), featured the #3 UK hit “Rock On,” establishing him as a glam rock icon. His roles in films like That’ll Be the Day (1973) and Stardust (1974) amplified his fame, making him a teen idol in the UK.

The David Essex album, released in 1974, reached #12 in the UK and showcased his knack for blending glam rock with pop and theatrical elements, produced by Jeff Wayne (later known for War of the Worlds).

“Gonna Make You a Star” capitalized on Essex’s charisma and the glam rock wave, competing with hits by Queen, Slade, and T. Rex in a vibrant 1974 music scene.

The single’s release coincided with Essex’s peak popularity, supported by TV appearances (e.g., Top of the Pops) and his role in Stardust, which portrayed a rock star’s rise and fall, mirroring the A-side’s theme.

Streaming and Compilations:“Gonna Make You a Star” is widely available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube as part of the David Essex album or compilations like The Best of David Essex (1996) and Greatest Hits (2006).

“Window” is less prominent but available on the David Essex album and select reissues.

Spain - CBS - 1974

Additional Notes

Musicians and Production:

Produced by Jeff Wayne, known for his orchestral work, the single features Essex’s band: Chris Spedding (guitar), Herbie Flowers (bass), Mike Moran (keyboards), and Barry De Souza (drums). Wayne’s arrangements added a theatrical flair, especially on the A-side.

Recorded in London, likely at AIR Studios, the single’s polished sound reflects the era’s glam rock production trends.

Cultural Context:

Released in 1974, “Gonna Make You a Star” thrived in a glam rock-dominated UK scene alongside Queen’s “Killer Queen” and Slade’s “Far Far Away.” Its satirical edge and Essex’s charisma made it a standout.

Essex’s dual career as a musician and actor (e.g., Stardust) amplified the single’s cultural resonance, with the film’s themes echoing the song’s narrative.

The B-side “Window” offered a quieter counterpoint, showcasing Essex’s range and appealing to fans seeking deeper cuts.

Legacy:

“Gonna Make You a Star” remains one of Essex’s defining hits, frequently performed live and featured in retrospectives of 1970s glam rock.

Its #1 status and cultural impact make it a staple in Essex’s catalog, alongside later hits like “Hold Me Close” (1975) and “Silver Dream Machine” (1980).

The B-side “Window” is a lesser-known gem, appreciated by fans for its introspective tone, as seen in fan discussions on RateYourMusic.