"Jesus Christ Superstar – Original Australian Cast Recording" was released by MCA in 1972 with English and other cast members performing vocals for a studio recording. A documentary of the production was broadcast on national TV, it contained footage of performances and interviews with cast members. English reprised his role of Judas in the 1975 and 1978 productions. During 1974, English co-wrote, with Roy Ritchie, the ballet "Phases" which was performed by the New South Wales Dance Company at the Sydney Opera House. While performing in "Superstar", English also performed as a rock vocalist both with bands, Tapestry, Pulsar and Duck, and solo. He sang on the studio cast recording of Reg Livermore and Patrick Flynn's rock opera, "Ned Kelly", and used some of the "Superstar" chorus band to help record his debut solo album, "Wine Dark Sea" released on Warm & Genuine Records/Phonogram Records in March 1973. His debut single "Handbags and Gladrags", released at the same time, was a cover of the Mike d'Abo composed song, which had been a Top 40 hit in the UK for singer Chris Farlowe in 1967. English's version peaked at No.50 on the Australian singles charts. His second single from the album was the Webber / Rice song "Close Every Door" from their "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" stage musical.