Kansas City's SHOOTING STAR enjoyed the attentions of the emerging Virgin label as one of their first Hard Rock signings. Fronted by former THE BECKIES member Gary West (known as Gary Hodgden in his previous outfit), the brother of MISSOURI's Ron West, SHOOTING STAR was dispatched to England to record their debut album with noted producer Gus Dudgeon.

The initial, self-titled effort, released in 1980, found SHOOTING STAR comprising West alongside songwriting partner guitarist Van mcLain, bass player Ron Vernin, violinist Charles Waltz and drummer Steve Thomas, with the addition of keyboard player Bill Guffey. This version of the group remained intact for the second outing, the Dennis McKay produced 'Hang On For Your Life', which reached no. 91 on the US album charts, eventually selling over half a million units. By the time of recording the Kevin Elson produced third album, 'III Wishes', Bill Guffey was no longer involved.

The band's national profile improved in 1984 with the inclusion of two tracks, 'Take It' and 'Get Ready Boy' for the movie soundtrack 'Up The Creek'. The 'Silent Scream' album found Norman Dahlor replacing Van McLain. The record was produced by Ron Nevison, with some tracks worked on by Greg Ladanyi. The band regrouped in 1991 with a brand new album, 'It's Not Over', and a revised line-up. Gary West had left the group and been replaced by Keith Mitchell. Dennis Laffon also joined the group on keyboards as did drummer Rod Lincoln and a live album followed. The band would still be active although although a projected American tour in 1997 with NIGHT RANGER was cancelled due to McClain being taken ill. SHOOTING STAR bounced back with the album 'Leap Of Faith'. Originally issued in 2000, the record was re-issued two years later adding the poignant track 'Let's Roll', a NEIL YOUNG cover version inspired by the final words of 9/11 hero Todd Beamer.

SHOOTING STAR lost the services of Keith Mitchell in August 2005.

The band returned with a brand new studio album, 'Circles', in July 2005, released through the Italian Frontiers label. SHOOTING STAR keyboard player Bill Guffey died in April 2007 from complications due to a liver transplant in late 2006.