Introduction
Suzi Quatro rose to prominence in the early 1970s as one of the first female bassists fronting a hard-rock band, scoring European chart-toppers like “Can the Can” (1973) and “Devil Gate Drive” (1974). Known for her leather-clad image and driving bass riffs, she inspired generations of women in rock, later cementing her U.S. profile with a recurring role on Happy Days as Leather Tuscadero.
David Essex, born David Albert Cook, became a 1970s teen idol in the U.K. with hits such as “Rock On” (1973) and two solo number ones, “Gonna Make You a Star” (1974) and “Hold Me Close” (1975). Beyond music, he earned acclaim as an actor—earning a BAFTA nomination for That’ll Be the Day (1973)—and later an Olivier nod for Evita in 1978.
On October 29, 1982, Spanish music program Musical Express hosted this duet performance, filmed on location in Spain. The show’s format highlighted rock legends’ live flair, and this episode delivered an infectious energy as Quatro and Essex channeled childhood favorites on a prime-time stage.
“Slippin’ And Slidin’”
Originally popularized by Little Richard in 1956, “Slippin’ and Slidin’ (Peepin’ and Hidin’)” was adapted from Eddie Bo’s “I’m Wise” and became a staple R&B/rock ’n’ roll track with Little Richard’s trademark piano and falsetto vocals.
“Carol”
Chuck Berry’s “Carol” debuted in 1958 on Chess Records, peaking at No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 9 on the R&B chart. Its driving guitar riff influenced countless rock acts, from The Beatles’ BBC sessions to the Rolling Stones’ live sets.
“Bye Bye Johnny”
A 1960 sequel to “Johnny B. Goode,” “Bye Bye Johnny” continues Berry’s storytelling of rock stardom. Released as a B-side in May 1960, it paired with “Worried Life Blues” and, though it didn’t chart, underscores Berry’s knack for crafting narrative in song.
This medley exemplifies how rock’s founding riffs endure through reinterpretation. Quatro’s gritty bass and Essex’s emotive vocals honor Berry’s legacy while infusing it with 1980s glam flair. For fans old and new, it’s a reminder that great songs are living, breathing connections across eras.