Glam Rock
tagStarted 1971Peak 1972-1975Last big hit 1975From United Kingdom
Located in 1 route
The original early-70s UK movement: androgynous image, sequins, makeup and platform boots over a thumping, hand-clap backbeat. Boogie shuffles and fuzzy electric riffs drive simple, anthemic choruses sung with a leering swagger. Production is bright and compressed, built for Top of the Pops and the singles chart rather than the album cut.
History
Sparked when Marc Bolan traded T. Rex's acoustic folk for electric boogie and glitter in 1971, with David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust persona crystallizing the look in 1972. Mott the Hoople, Mud and Suzi Quatro followed onto the British charts, making glam the dominant UK pop sound until punk and disco eclipsed it mid-decade.
Defining artists
Essential listening
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glam_rock
- https://www.britannica.com/art/glam-rock
- https://www.allmusic.com/style/glam-rock-ma0000002612