Star Mafia Boy

Ian Hunter (November 2, 1979) – Cleveland Rocks / Bastard Single UK: 7" Released in the UK on November 2, 1979, Cleveland Rocks was issued by Chrysalis under catalogue number CHS 2390. Written by Ian Hunter and produced jointly by Hunter and Mick Ronson, the track was drawn from the 1979 album You're Never Alone With A Schizophrenic. Although closely identified with Cleveland, Ohio, the song had an unusual history. An earlier version appeared in Britain during 1977 as England Rocks. Hunter later explained that Cleveland had been the original inspiration, with the lyric subsequently adapted because he wanted the song to have an opportunity as a single outside the United States. BACKGROUND & ORIGINS Hunter's affection for Cleveland provided the foundation for the song. At a time when the city was frequently characterised as unfashionable beside places such as Los Angeles and New York, Hunter instead recognised the enthusiasm and character he associated with Cleveland. The composition first emerged commercially as England Rocks in 1977. Two years later the Cleveland-centred version became part of You're Never Alone With A Schizophrenic and subsequently developed an enduring association with the city. STYLE & THEMES Cleveland Rocks is an emphatic rock anthem built around civic pride and Hunter's affection for a city he believed deserved greater recognition. The recording also acknowledges Cleveland's place in early rock 'n' roll history. Its opening incorporates an archival introduction associated with Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed and The Moondog Show before the performance launches into the main song. The combination of Hunter's writing and the substantial Hunter/Ronson production gives the recording its forceful, celebratory character.