Hi Jem, over the years I've heard Steve give 2 origins of the Cockney Rebel name. Firstly, he said it was a nickname his dad used to call him but later he said it was the name of a poem that he wrote when he was very young.
After the first incarnation of Cockney Rebel broke up (due in part of other members wanting to write songs), Steve put his name before the bands name so there would be no doubt as to who was in control.
I agree, the buckled shoes with 'rock n roll' on were great.