Ego Is Not A Dirty Word, Skyhooks

Skyhooks – Ego Is Not A Dirty Word

Artist: Skyhooks

Title: Ego Is Not A Dirty Word

Album Type: Second Studio Album

Original Release Date: July 1975

Label: Mushroom Records (L 35575)

Genre: Glam Rock / Pop Rock / Australian Rock

Background & Production Following the astronomical success of their debut, Living in the 70's, Skyhooks returned to TCS Studios in Melbourne to record their follow-up between January and May 1975. Produced by Ross Wilson (credited as Duke Wilson), the album was a major critical and commercial triumph, staying at #1 on the Australian charts for 11 weeks. It famously won Most Popular Australian Album at the 1975 King of Pop Awards. The sessions were not without drama; the band was briefly locked out of the studio during the recording process.

Musical Composition & Style The album refined the band's signature "glam-with-a-smirk" sound, combining razor-sharp social commentary with tight, guitar-driven melodies.

• The Title Track: "Ego Is Not A Dirty Word" peaked at #2 on the Australian singles chart and became a cultural anthem, challenging social norms about self-confidence.

• Aussie Classics: The album features "All My Friends Are Getting Married," which remains one of the most recognizable tracks in Australian rock history.

• Lyrical Wit: Songwriter Greg Macainsh continued to document Australian life with tracks like "Saturday Night" and "Mercedes Ladies," while Red Symons contributed the unique "Every Chase a Steeple".

• Eclectic Instrumentation: The record features a wide array of guest instruments, including Peter Jones on marimbas and vibes, and Greg Sneddon on the Arp synthesizer.

Legacy & Vinyl Collector Notes Ego Is Not A Dirty Word is a cornerstone for collectors of Australian rock. For those seeking the original 1975 vinyl experience:

• The Packaging: The original Mushroom Records release (L 35575) features a striking gatefold sleeve with artwork by Neil Curtis and distinctive front lettering by Ian McCausland.

• Pressing Details: First edition Australian pressings are highly collectable, known for their clean Mushroom labels and high-energy analog mastering.

• International Rarity: While common in Australia, original 1975 pressings from the US (Mercury) and UK (Mercury/Phonogram) are harder to find and highly prized by global collectors.

• Keywords: Skyhooks, Ego Is Not A Dirty Word, Shirley Strachan, Greg Macainsh, Mushroom Records, 1975 Vinyl, Australian Rock, Glam Rock, Gatefold.

  • Collection Ideas: Australian Rock Legends, 70s Glam Classics, Number One Albums, The Mushroom Records Vault.

  • Related Artists: AC/DC, Cold Chisel, TMG (Ted Mulry Gang), Sherbet, Daddy Cool.

MINT - sealed

NM - likely never played - almost perfect

VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play

VG -  signs of wear, light scratches you can feel

GOOD -  surface noise, visible groove wear

POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio

OIS - original inner sleeve