Remembering Marc Bolan: Glam greatness and beyond

Last week, Lady Gaga’s sixth album, titled “Mayhem“, was celebrated as a triumphant comeback to the dance pop that catapulted her to fame nearly two decades ago. While this may be accurate, the foundations of “Mayhem” can be traced back even further, predating Kylie, Britney, and even Madonna – the most influential figure in dance pop’s history.

Madonna’s most significant influence on pop music didn’t only stem from her music, it was more about how she delivered a comprehensive pop star experience. The tunes were essential, yet so were her style, dance moves, and personality. While ABBA provided catchy songs, Madonna offered a full-blown performance.

Reflecting on the music of Mayhem and contemplating Madonna makes me consider an artist who paved the way for much of what followed. Although he’s not as widely recognized today, eclipsed by those who built upon his foundation, it is apparent that he was a more accurate harbinger of where pop music and pop culture were headed than many other popular artists from his era.

There were few musical artists as unique as Marc Bolan

Back then, around the early 1970s in the UK, Marc Bolan was impossible to ignore, though his name may not ring a bell today.

In the years 1971 and 1972, T. Rex, led by Bolan, was undeniably one of England’s most celebrated bands, filling a gap left after the break-up of the Beatles. This period could be seen as a short-lived resurrection of Beatlemania, known as T. Rextacy. The band’s second album, “Electric Warrior,” reached the top spot in the UK in 1971 and produced their second chart-topping single, titled “Get It On.

In the following period, T. Rex released their album, titled “The Slider“, which included two additional hit singles that topped the charts. Although they continued to be a significant force for some time, scoring more hits in England, Marc Bolan started exhibiting signs of weariness. Their popularity dipped slightly during the mid-decade. However, in 1977, the singer and his band demonstrated a newfound energy with “Dandy in the Underworld“, their strongest album in five years.

Sadly, six months following its launch and just two weeks before his 30th birthday, Marc Bolan met an untimely end in a car crash. It’s unfortunate that we never got the chance to see what else he might have shared with us. Given his life up until that point, it seems there was certainly more to his story.

T-Rex is often connected to the genre of glam rock, a style that significantly impacted pop music in the early 1970s, with its mix of love and controversy. Among all figures, Marc Bolan stood out as the soul of glam rock. He was not just a representative but an embodiment of this genre.

At heart, glamor (glam) involves assuming various roles and personas; thus, although T. Rex may be known for a particular character, it doesn’t encompass the entire musical artist. Marc Bolan had at least three distinct stages in his brief career, and many more overlapping branches where these phases intertwined. Separating them is nearly impossible.

In essence, there’s much more to explore about the significance of glam music today, but I’ll stop here for now. Interestingly, Marc Bolan and the pop genre he significantly influenced have turned out to be a far greater precursor for modern pop in 2025 than many genres that were highly praised during their time.

While artists like Bruce Springsteen in heartland rock and Bob Dylan as a singer-songwriter writer might have garnered more critical acclaim, the music of Marc Bolan (glam) and Black Sabbath (metal) still resonates strongly in popular culture today.

To grasp and honor the impact Marc Bolan left on contemporary pop music, let’s delve into ten extraordinary songs he produced from the late ’60s through the ’70s. However, I must warn you: Following his musical journey across his three main bands can be a bit complex. But it is never boring. For Bolan, complexity was simply another creative weapon in his toolkit.

Being dull is the only true crime.

“Desdemona” John’s Children (1967)

As a teenage prodigy, Mark Bolan experimented with various names, managers, and music genres during the early stages of his recording career, foreshadowing the changes he would undergo in the future. His big break came when, at age 20, he caught the eye of producer Simon Napier-Bell, who was also the manager of the Yardbirds, and this association led to his initial taste of success.

Initially thought to join The Yardbirds, Napier-Bell instead placed Bolan in another band he managed, which was the wild and rowdy group known as John’s Children. Fronted by Andy Ellison, Bolan played guitar and contributed his high-pitched, trembling vocal harmonies. What truly made a difference for John’s Children was Bolan’s songwriting abilities.

It was clearly evident that “Desdemona” had a bluesy shuffle rhythm reminiscent of Doc Pomus’ style of blues pop. In this song, Bolan’s unique, soaring vocals can be heard subtly in the background alongside Ellison, and his bold lyrical imagination is showcased on the chorus, where he playfully suggests Desdemona to “lift up your skirt and fly.

Even though Toulouse-Lautrec depicted a woman provocatively, it doesn’t grant you permission to take away my evening and leave me exposed like one of his nudes.

“Debora” Tyrannosaurus Rex (1968)

Prepare yourself for some turbulence ahead. The journey isn’t smooth sailing. Unfortunately, John’s band didn’t survive long. Constant disputes with fans and legal issues led to their premature end. Later on, Bolan endeavored to create his own group. The initial effort was unsuccessful. However, he encountered a young percussionist who, like Bolan, was deeply captivated by the mythical worlds of Tolkien and Lewis. His unique name, borrowed from “The Lord of the Rings”, was Steve Peregrin Took.

In unison, they plunged deeply into the vibrant, psychedelic realm of acoustic folk tunes, identifying as Tyrannosaurus Rex. One of their initial hits was titled “Debora”, highlighting Took’s dynamic percussion skills and Bolan’s unique ability to craft rhymes, such as linking “Debora” and “zebra,” with a distinctive ‘e’ sound in the latter word.

In 1968, their song achieved a modest success, managing to climb into the top 40 charts in the UK. Four years later, when it was re-released, it saw greater popularity and once more garnered attention in 2017, as film director Edgar Wright, born after its initial re-release, featured it in the soundtrack of his movie “Baby Driver”, thus bringing it back into public focus.

“Sara Crazy Child” Tyrannosaurus Rex (1968)

As a gamer, diving into the musical world of Marc Bolan, I’ve found that understanding “Sara Crazy Child” is like trying to catch a chameleon in a kaleidoscope. The original track is amazing, showcasing Bolan’s versatility, but Other live recordings and outtakes only add to the confusion, because just like Bolan’s costumes, the song itself would change often.

In the company of John’s Children, Bolan composed and they made a recording of it. This recording wouldn’t be released until some time passed, but it showcases a charming pop ballad with Bolan’s signature expressive lyrics – “Sara, wild spirit, is consuming the city streets – With her pastel-hued, tormented attire and her captivating rhythm on the bongo drums.

Before the release of John’s Children’s recording, Bolan and Took transformed the track into a Tyrannosaurus Rex tune, with Bolan’s soaring high-pitched vocals harmonizing with Took’s rhythmic bongo beats. It was the same melody, but the mood was dramatically altered. As a fan, I found it fascinating to hear such a fresh take on a familiar song!

“Hot Love” T. Rex (1971)

By 1970, Bolan and Took parted ways, paving the way for Bolan to embark on a new phase of his career. Although it wasn’t immediately clear, the glam era was on the horizon. With a fully formed band now known as T. Rex, Bolan achieved his first number one single with a song that had an old-fashioned rhythm. However, producer Tony Visconti infused it with an early touch of glam rock, featuring backup vocals from Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman, who are also known as Flo and Eddie from the Turtles.

In this setup, Bolan strummed the electric guitar, while the fresh addition, Mickey Finn, added a stylish touch with his handclaps. Beneath the surface, there was a real bass and drum foundation.

It wasn’t just the song itself that won people over, but rather T. Rex’s appearances on Top of the Pops, the British chart-topping music show. Marc Bolan transformed his image dramatically, going from an acoustic hippie with Tyrannosaurus Rex to a pioneer of a new type of pop music that emphasized artifice and fantasy over authenticity and reality, as symbolized by his makeup and androgynous attire.

“Get It On” T. Rex (1971)

In September of 1971, T. Rex unveiled their second studio album titled “Electric Warrior“. By then, they were already making waves in the music industry, and this new release helped propel them to even greater heights. The album’s standout track, “Get It On,” became one of the defining anthems of glam rock.

This blues shuffle showcased Bolan’s sensual vocals, complemented by Flo and Eddie’s dramatic backing. The track also boasted a richer sound, with Rick Wakeman’s piano and Ian McDonald’s sax adding depth. It peaked at number one in the UK and marked Bolan’s sole entry into the top ten in the USA, where it was renamed “Bang a Gong (Get It On).

It featured more of Bolan’s unique poetry…

You’re slender yet lack strength, your smile is reminiscent of the many-headed Hydra – You’re filthy but endearing, and I consider you mine.

“Cosmic Dancer” T. Rex (1971)

In his comprehensive analysis of the glam rock era titled “Shock and Awe,” music expert Simon Reynolds views “Cosmic Dancer” as a defining manifesto. Its expansive, majestic instrumentation and subtly clever lyrics make this characterization particularly fitting.

Dance and flamboyance went hand in hand for these artists. Before embarking on his pop career, David Bowie contemplated a professional dance path. Meanwhile, Bolan, known more for strumming his guitar during Tyrannosaurus Rex days, emphasized movement in T. Rex’s live acts. Costume and motion were just as crucial as the music for self-expression. Dancing became an integral part of his performances, a key element to his act.

Restated: Instead of just being an unusual line of poetry, “I danced myself right out the womb – I danced myself right out the womb – Is it strange to dance so soon?” takes on a deeper meaning. The initial statement presents a confident declaration, while the subsequent question suggests that there’s some uncertainty hidden beneath the surface.

“Jeepster” T. Rex (1971)

As a gamer, I’ve got to share that the sequel to “Get It On” didn’t quite make it to the number one spot; instead, it found itself parked at number two. Once again, Bolan was drawing inspiration from the deep blues wellspring, this time from Willie Dixon. However, he put his own glittering, glam twist on it with lines such as…

“You slide so good, with bones so fair – You’ve got the universe reclining in your hair.”

…and concluding with the classic, age-old emblem of unattainable affection, he proclaimed himself as a “vampire yearning for your love,” promising to “drain you completely.

The song “Jeepster” and “Hot Love,” by T. Rex, showcased Marc Bolan’s unique blend of revved-up, suggestive sensuality that was suitable for broadcast on shows like Top of the Pops. The primary fans of T. Rex were young women, many of whom were just entering adolescence and seemed excited by Bolan’s daring style and persona. Songs such as “Jeepster” provided a way to dance while entertaining slightly naughty daydreams.

“Solid Gold Easy Action” T. Rex (1972)

The album that came after “Electric Warrior,” titled “The Slider,” produced a few more chart-toppers, such as “Metal Guru” and “Telegram Sam.” These songs have plenty of glamorous flair, but they don’t seem quite as innovative compared to the tracks from “Electric Warrior“” today.

In 1972, “Solid Gold Easy Action” was released as a standalone single that reached number two on the charts. It offered something fresh and unique compared to earlier glam tunes. Instead of maintaining the bluesy sluggishness characteristic of some early glam music, it went all out with a high-energy pop-rock blast, paving the way for the dynamic style of Freddie Mercury and Queen.

It wasn’t until the 2019 musical biography “The Dirt” that we learned about its influence, but the song apparently had a significant impact on Frank Feranna during his formative years, who later became known as Nikki Sixx, the creative mind behind Motley Crue. At the age of 14, the song allegedly made a deep impression on him according to the movie account.

“20th Century Boy” (1973)

After “The Slider,” T. Rex only had one more top ten hit, but this track was their last outstanding masterpiece… until nearly the end. This song might have been the toughest and most grungy that Bolan ever produced. While it didn’t quite reach the raw intensity that the New York Dolls were producing in America, it foreshadowed the melodic punk and metal that would later evolve into significant sub-genres.

In tribute to the rock music they were raised on in England, which included a wide range of acts like Thin Lizzy, Mott the Hoople, the Kinks, and David Bowie, Def Leppard selected this particular track to kick off their album.

The album titled “Yeah!” is a lively and dynamic creation that transcends glam music while firmly establishing its importance in early ’70s tunes. Originally recorded tracks like T. Rex’s powerful “20th Century Boy” surpass covers, but Def Leppard offers an enjoyable spin on the classics, regardless.

Although T. Rex didn’t cease to exist in 1973, there’s a somewhat unsettling quality in how Marc Bolan sings “I’m your toy, your 20th century boy.” Many fans perceived him as just that – their plaything of the 20th century. By 1973, this image was starting to fade away.

“Dandy in the Underworld” T. Rex (1977)

1970s midway point wasn’t particularly favorable to Marc Bolan. Still in his twenties, there were moments when he appeared fatigued. T. Rex continued releasing albums that hinted at their early brilliance, but were gradually overshadowed. David Bowie, however, emerged as the enduring glam rock legend.

During that quiet period, Bolan frequently changed the lineup of the band. Most significantly, percussionist Mickey Finn left in 1975. By 1977, T. Rex had undergone a significant transformation. However, Bolan, on what turned out to be his final album, appeared revitalized. This was evident in songs like “Pain and Love” and “Jason B. Sad,” which featured both daring new ideas and excellent throwbacks to the past.

Instead, let me put it this way: The title track of the album, “Dandy in the Underworld,” was what truly shone as a timeless Marc Bolan masterpiece. It’s dramatic, poetic, memorable, and subtly melancholic, all at once. Marc Bolan was undeniably a dandy, pouring his heart into the art of self-presentation. For the top glam artists, this pretense transformed their world, creating a unique reality where the harshness of everyday life was replaced by the beauty found in art and imagination.

Looking back, Bowie might have had a knack for balancing the chaos and fantasy effectively, which possibly contributed to his greater success and longer lifespan compared to Marc Bolan. However, it’s important to note that Bolan was far from an amateur; his consistent inventions and transformations hinted at a certain depth to some observers. In truth, he was capable of putting on a fantastic performance and penning a truly remarkable song.

For those asserting that true artistic greatness necessitates authenticity, here’s a suggestion to consider: Can you locate lyrics that are more introspective and truthful than these…?

In a distant land, at the age of 18, he was banished – To the abandoned realms of an enchanted Oz – Desiring escape, he instead found ruin – Now he eternally haunts the ancient castles of the underworld – For he’s a debonair figure in this world below – A dandy in the underworld – When might he resurface? – Tell me, will anyone ever show concern?

In a sense, it served as a memorial; however, the impact of Marc Bolan on contemporary pop music in the 21st century is indisputable.

It functioned as a tribute, but the influence of Marc Bolan on modern pop music is unquestionable in the 21st century.

2025-03-13 13:01