It was released as a single by Island Records on 28 May 1977,[2] during a time of experimentation to define a new sound for the band, in advance of their second album.

A definitive song in the band's development, and a popular single at the time, the 2006 reissue edition of the latter album (IMCD 325) contains it as bonus track.

The B-Side of 'Young Savage' is a live version of "Slip Away", recorded during a gig at The Rainbow in London in 1977.

'Young Savage' is one of four live tracks featured on the Retro EP (IEP 8), released on 10 February 1978.

'Young Savage' was a regular feature of Ultravox live shows and was included in the set performed on their last tour with John Foxx in the USA during February and March 1979.