T. Rex

T. Rex, a British rock band formed by Marc Bolan, became one of the most iconic and influential acts of the glam rock era in the 1970s. Bolan, known for his distinctive vocals and flamboyant stage presence, led the band to massive success with a string of hit singles and albums that shaped the sound of the era.

History

In 1967, Marc Bolan formed T. Rex as Tyrannosaurus Rex, a psychedelic folk duo with percussionist Steve Peregrin Took. The duo released several albums in the late 1960s, including “My People Were Fair and Had Sky in Their Hair… But Now They’re Content to Wear Stars on Their Brows” (1968) and “Unicorn” (1969), gaining a cult following in the underground music scene.

In 1970, Bolan rebranded the band as T. Rex, shifting towards a more electric rock sound. With the release of the single “Ride a White Swan” in 1970, T. Rex skyrocketed to fame, marking the beginning of their commercial success.

Hits

T. Rex produced a string of chart-topping hits in the UK, including:

1. “Hot Love” (1971) – UK #1
2. “Get It On” (1971) – UK #1
3. “Telegram Sam” (1972) – UK #1
4. “Metal Guru” (1972) – UK #1
5. “Children of the Revolution” (1972) – UK #2
6. “Solid Gold Easy Action” (1972) – UK #2
7. “20th Century Boy” (1973) – UK #3

Albums

T. Rex released a series of critically acclaimed albums, solidifying their status as one of the premier rock acts of the era. Some of their notable albums include:

1. “Electric Warrior” (1971)
2. “The Slider” (1972)
3. “Tanx” (1973)
4. “Zinc Alloy and the Hidden Riders of Tomorrow” (1974)

Awards and Achievements

T. Rex’s impact on the music industry was recognized through various awards and achievements. In 1972, they won the Melody Maker Readers’ Poll award for Best New Band. Additionally, Marc Bolan was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 for his groundbreaking contributions to music history.

Legacy

T. Rex’s influence extended far beyond the glam rock era, shaping the sound of future rock and pop artists. Marc Bolan’s untimely death in 1977 marked the end of an era, but the band’s music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans worldwide.

In conclusion, T. Rex’s revolutionary blend of glam rock and electric sound catapulted them to fame in the 1970s. Their infectious hits and dynamic stage presence cemented their status as one of the most iconic bands of the era. With a legacy that endures to this day, T. Rex remains a timeless symbol of rock ‘n’ roll extravagance.