The allure of 70s glam rock! A host of masterpieces that colored a dazzling chapter of music history
Glam rock, which took the world by storm in the 1970s with glitter-drenched makeup and flamboyant costumes.
It went beyond mere fashion, revolutionizing the music scene with genderless expression and highly artistic songs.
Although it is now recognized as an important subgenre of rock, at the time it was a shocking presence that overturned existing values.
In this article, we introduce glam rock from its birth and development to the signature songs that defined its golden era.
Enjoy the musical innovation hidden behind the flashy outfits and the timeless allure that never fades with age!
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The Allure of ’70s Glam Rock! A Dazzling Array of Classic Songs That Colored Music History (11–20)
Third UncleBrian Eno
Brian Eno, hailing from England and also known for his work with Roxy Music.
This track, included on the classic album Taking Tiger Mountain (By Strategy) released in November 1974, was a forerunner of proto-punk.
Its obsessively repeated bassline and knife-sharp guitar gradually set the listener’s nerves on edge.
In a cold, affectless voice, he reels off a strange scene where canned goods, pork, and “you” are placed on the same level.
Perhaps it depicts the self disintegrating beneath the glamorous mask of glam rock.
The fact that Bauhaus, titans of gothic rock, later covered it speaks to its considerable influence.
How about this as a companion for a night when you want to sink into the intelligent, cool madness lurking behind a glittering era?
Benny and the JetsElton John
Opening with audience cheers and a striking piano riff, this track appears to be influenced by the glam rock boom and was crafted by the legendary British musician Elton John.
Included on the classic 1973 album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and released as a single in February 1974, it soared to No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
The song depicts a fervor for a futuristic, sci-fi-style fictional band.
You can practically picture their stage show—dazzling costumes and performances that captivate the crowd.
Its live-like immediacy, despite being a studio recording, transports you to the glittering world of the 1970s.
Why not give it a listen on a night when you want to forget the everyday and lose yourself in a sparkling spectacle?
I’mamanJobriath
Emerging with massive promotion, America’s tragic genius Jobriath.
Featured on his 1973 debut album “Jobriath” and released as a single the following year in 1974, this song is emblematic of his very presence.
The dazzling piano and theatrical sound meld into one, and the way he boldly sings of his identity is nothing short of breathtaking.
His performance on the TV show The Midnight Special, paired with glittering costumes, left an indelible impression on viewers.
It really drives home the preciousness of staying true to oneself.
If you ever want to immerse yourself in the fleeting brilliance and fervor of ’70s glam rock, this is a must-listen.
Dyna-miteMud
Released in October 1973, this is a signature track by the British band Mud.
It reached No.
4 on the UK Singles Chart and was also included on the soundtrack of the 2013 film Rush.
Crafted by hitmakers Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, it was reportedly originally intended for a different band.
Kicking off with a guitar riff like a dynamite blast, it’s an irresistibly upbeat slice of rock ’n’ roll.
It seems to celebrate the shock of falling in love and the pure, unreasoned joy that comes with it, conjuring images of the band performing in dazzling outfits.
A exhilarating number that’s perfect for lifting your spirits to the max.
TrashNew York Dolls
Formed in New York City and hugely influential on the later punk scene, the New York Dolls left an indelible mark.
This work, released in July 1973 as a double A-side single with “Personality Crisis,” stands as a milestone of glam punk.
Set against a decadent city backdrop, the song belts out a tale of fleeting love and a way of life, its sweet, aching melody shining through the raw performance.
It was also showcased on NBC’s television program The Midnight Special.
Have you ever felt the urge to be yourself, unbound by conventional values? On a night when you feel compelled to rebel against something, why not immerse yourself in this sound where danger and purity coexist?
Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel
Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, a London-born act that stood out with literary lyrics and a theatrical sound.
Released in January 1975, this single became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the UK charts in February of the same year.
Its brisk, catchy melody has a charm that lifts anyone’s spirits the moment they hear it.
Yet what the song contains is Steve Harley’s biting irony and loneliness toward his former bandmates after experiencing their departure.
Even as he’s been betrayed, the protagonist puts on a brave face and says, “Go ahead, make me laugh,” which only deepens the poignancy.
It’s likely for this very depth that the track has been used in many works, including the film The Full Monty.
If you know the bittersweetness of human relationships, it will surely resonate with your heart.
The allure of 70s glam rock! A selection of masterpieces that colored a dazzling musical history (21–30)
Metal GuruT-REX
In Japan, “20th Century Boy,” which was used as the theme song for the film 20th Century Boys, might be the more famous track.
However, when it comes to T.
Rex, this song from the 1972 album The Slider is absolutely indispensable.
Frontman Marc Bolan—his look, style, singing, and even the way he lived (he died young in a car accident)—embodied glam rock in every sense.