Marc Bolan

Born Mark Feld on September 30, 1947, and his band T. Rex, were pivotal figures in the glam rock movement of the early 1970s. Here's a look at Bolan's career, influence, and legacy:

- **Early Life and Career**:

- Bolan began his musical journey in the mid-1960s, initially with folk music. He joined John's Children, but his significant musical identity formed when he created Tyrannosaurus Rex with Steve Peregrin Took.

- **Formation of T. Rex**:

- After a few albums of acoustic, folk-influenced music under Tyrannosaurus Rex, Bolan streamlined the name to T. Rex and embraced a more electric, rock-oriented sound with the addition of drummer Mickey Finn. This transition marked the birth of glam rock.

- **Breakthrough and Glam Rock Era**:

- **"Ride a White Swan"** (1970) was T. Rex's first major hit, signaling their shift to glam rock with its catchy melody and Bolan's distinctive voice.

- **"Electric Warrior"** (1971) was a landmark album, containing "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" which became a global hit. This album epitomized the glam rock sound with its blend of rock, pop, and Bolan's lyrical whimsy.

- **Cultural Impact**:

- Bolan's image—long hair, glitter, androgynous clothing—became synonymous with glam rock. His performances were spectacles, with him often appearing on stage with flamboyant outfits that influenced fashion and music culture.

- He was one of the first artists to fully integrate the music video into promoting his music, which would later become a standard practice.

- **Hits and Albums**:

- T. Rex had a string of hits including "Hot Love," "Jeepster," "Telegram Sam," and "Metal Guru." Albums like "The Slider" (1972) continued their commercial success.

- Despite their brief peak, T. Rex's influence was immense, with Bolan's songwriting and charisma defining a moment in pop culture.

- **Later Career**:

- As the '70s progressed, Bolan's music evolved, with albums like "Zinc Alloy and the Hidden Riders of Tomorrow" (1974) showing a shift towards more complex arrangements. His popularity waned slightly, but he remained a significant figure in music.

- **Television and Media**:

- Bolan hosted "Marc," a music show on Granada TV, which helped him maintain his visibility and influence younger audiences even as his chart success declined.

- **Tragic End**:

- Marc Bolan died tragically in a car accident on September 16, 1977, just before his 30th birthday. His death was a significant loss to the music world, leaving many to ponder what further contributions he might have made.

- **Legacy**:

- T. Rex's music has endured, influencing countless artists across genres. Bolan is often cited for his role in bringing rock into the mainstream with a pop sensibility.

- His persona, music, and style have been celebrated in numerous tributes, including the annual "Bolan's Birthday Bash" concerts, which keep his memory and music alive.

- Bolan was posthumously recognized with various honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 as part of T. Rex.

Marc Bolan's work with T. Rex not only defined glam rock but also left an indelible mark on the broader landscape of music, fashion, and culture, making him an iconic figure in rock history.