Def Leppard News - 31 Years Ago DEF LEPPARD Release ROCKET Single In The UK

home > def leppard news >

Thursday, 30th January 2020

Prev | Next

31 Years Ago DEF LEPPARD Release ROCKET Single In The UK

Def Leppard 1989

Def Leppard released their classic Rocket single 31 years ago on this day in 1989 in the UK.

The sixth and final single to be released from the Hysteria album in the UK.

It was released on 30th January 1989 reaching Number 15 on the singles chart.

A song which referenced many of the band's early musical influences from the early 1970s Glam period including Elton John and David Bowie.

The follow up to 'Love Bites' which had reached Number 11 in July.

The single released on regular 7", 12", CD and cassette featuring a new B-Side called 'Release Me' and a live version of 'Rock of Ages' from Tilburg, Holland.

This song was jokingly recorded during the 'Hysteria' B-Side sessions in February 1987 with Steve Clark's roadie Malvin Mortimer on guest lead vocals.

The song was billed as being by Stumpus Maximus And The Good Ol' Boys. Malvin being Stumpus and Def Leppard as the backing musicians.

The CD, 12" Picture Disc and 7" 'Brit Pack' box versions included three different versions of 'Rocket'.

The main single edit, extended mix and radio edit. The main edit and extended versions were billed as 'The Lunar Mix'.