Silver Convention - S/T Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP Album

- incl Large Nude Poster

Album Description:

Silver Convention's self-titled album marked the captivating emergence of a Euro-disco sensation. Released as their debut album, it showcased the group's infectious energy, innovative sound, and a touch of controversy with its inclusion of a large nude poster featuring Penny McLean. Renowned for their pulsating beats, catchy melodies, and unforgettable hooks, Silver Convention's self-titled album not only captured the essence of the disco era but also solidified their place in music history.

A Trailblazing Sound:

Silver Convention burst onto the music scene in the mid-1970s, amid the height of the disco craze. Their eponymous album embraced the era's pulsating beats and shimmering dance rhythms, offering listeners an electrifying sonic experience. Led by producers and songwriters Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay, the group effortlessly combined soulful vocals, infectious melodies, and lush orchestration, creating an irresistible blend that resonated with audiences around the world.

The Controversial Artistic Statement:

One of the most notable features of the original release of Silver Convention's self-titled album was the inclusion of a large nude poster. The photograph depicted Penny McLean, one of the group's lead vocalists, in a provocative yet tasteful manner. This artistic decision generated both intrigue and controversy, as it pushed boundaries and challenged societal norms of the time. While the album's music spoke for itself, the inclusion of the nude poster added an element of boldness and helped create a buzz around the group.

Renaming and Re-Release:

In subsequent releases, the album was re-titled "Save Me". This renaming did not diminish the impact of Silver Convention's self-titled album, but rather allowed the group to refocus attention on their powerful and uplifting music. The decision to repackage the album with a new title was likely made to emphasize the standout tracks such as the iconic "Save Me" and "Fly, Robin, Fly", which became massive hits on the charts.

Musical Highlights:

Beyond the captivating artwork, the self-titled album is a treasure trove of disco classics. "Fly, Robin, Fly" remains the group's signature song, earning them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Instrumental Performance. Its pulsating rhythm, soaring vocals, and infectious chorus solidified Silver Convention's place as disco royalty. Additionally, tracks like "Save Me" and "I Like It" further showcased the group's infectious energy and ability to craft addictive hooks that had audiences dancing the night away.

The album was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Penny McLean Biography:

Penny McLean, born Gertrude Wirschinger on 4 November 1948, in Klagenfurt, Austria, is a singer, songwriter, and performer who gained international recognition as a member of the Euro-disco group Silver Convention. With her powerful vocals and stage presence, McLean contributed to the success of several chart-topping hits during the disco era.

Prior to her involvement with Silver Convention, McLean pursued a career in the music industry as a solo artist. She released a few singles in the early 1970s, but it was her collaboration with producers Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay that launched her into the spotlight. As one of the lead vocalists of Silver Convention, McLean's soulful voice became a defining element of the group's sound.

One of the most notable songs associated with Penny McLean is "Lady Bump", released as a solo single in 1975. The disco-infused track became a major hit in Europe and peaked at number one in several countries. Its infectious rhythm and McLean's energetic performance contributed to the song's success.

McLean's contributions to Silver Convention were also significant. Alongside Ramona Wulf and Linda G. Thompson, she lent her vocals to the group's chart-topping hits such as "Fly, Robin, Fly" and "Save Me". These songs showcased her range and versatility as a vocalist, and her performances added an undeniable allure to the group's music.

Following her time with Silver Convention, McLean continued to pursue a solo career. She released several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, although she did not achieve the same level of commercial success as during her Silver Convention days. McLean's solo work showcased her ability to explore different musical genres beyond disco, including pop and Schlager.

Beyond her musical endeavors, McLean also ventured into writing and publishing. She authored books on topics such as spirituality and personal development, reflecting her interest in metaphysics and self-improvement.

Penny McLean's contributions to the disco era and her memorable performances as a member of Silver Convention cemented her status as a respected vocalist and performer. Her soulful voice, combined with her captivating stage presence, played an integral role in the success of the group's music, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of disco history.