The single was conceived by Robert Smith (singer/guitarist of the Cure) and Simon Gallup (then bassist of the Magspies) as a way to test their musical compatibility.

[1] The songs were written for, and feature on vocals, local Horley postman Frank Bell, who is also depicted on the single's artwork.

They also feature Malice/Easy Cure guitarist Porl Thompson and Magspies keyboardist Matthieu Hartley amongst an extended lineup of friends and family, including Robert's sisters Janet and Margaret and local band the Obtainers.

"I'm a Cult Hero" was originally released in December 1979 in the UK with the song "I Dig You" on the B-side.

The track "I'm a Cult Hero" was also included in the Australian compilation album Britannia Waives the Rules in 1981.