27 – GLITTER/GLAM AND ART ROCK
GLITTER/GLAM ROCK
Before the birth of the so-called glitter or glam rock scene, rock had evolved essentially as a working class form of music, visually glorifying a distinct street style and attitude. Early rockers admired the biker or truck driver look. Elvis Presley had perfected the stereotypical rock and roll persona with his sneering, macho posturing and southern good ol' boy attitude. Later in the mid 1960's, rockers began displaying colourful attire and the flamboyant posturings common to the male of the species. This particular behaviour had been firmly suppressed during most of the twentieth century, but with the advent of glitter rock in the early 1970's, males were free to experiment with fashion and androgyny. Admittedly, there had always existed a certain femininity in the theatre - and to a certain extent, rock. After all, one of the basic features connected with showbusiness is dressing up. Teen rock fans had always gravitated somewhat to the pouting, posturing, long-haired musician and his androgynous characteristics. The pretty boy had always been assured popularity.
So what is glitter or glam rock? As a genre, it is definitely not connected with any specific sound or music style, although much of the music of some of its performers such as Gary Glitter and Slade shared a common flat, churning drum style. If it did have a connection with any previous styles, it would certainly be that of the mid 1960's garage bands.
By the beginning of the 1970's, various theatrical elements had begun to infiltrate rock. The "glitter rock" designation stuck after several of its more outré, gaudy exponents promoted the idea of pasting glitter on their clothing and skin.
Actually, the glitter/glam rock scene consisted of a hodgepodge of creative music styles combined with theatrics, glamour and high camp. Lyrics were sometimes futuristic, often spiced with bisexual references and double entendres. Staging and lighting could be as elaborate as any Broadway show. As in the case of David Bowie, each song could demand a complete new set with props, special effects, actors or dancers. Bowie also created several characters such as Ziggy Stardust and Aladin Sane in which he immersed himself.
Theatrical makeup and outrageous costuming were taken to the limit. Alice Cooper for instance, originally created an extreme drag/glam look, later taking the shock/rock route, combining music with horror and magic in a stage extravaganza unequalled in modern showbusiness. Even the fabulous Harry Houdini would not have dared to dream of the fantastic, expensive illusions presented by Cooper whose performances often featured macabre hangings and electric chair effects set to ghoulish rock music. The motto of the genre was "today's far out is tomorrow's ordinary."
The glitter/glam look generally consisted of eye catching flimsy clothing, tights, platform boots, tacky jewelry and heavy eye makeup. The more skin exposed - the better. The whole idea had started as a cult attraction, later building a huge following especially in Britain. In a sense, rock had finally succumbed to showbusiness.
As a craze, it was predictably short lived, being eclipsed by punk in the late 1970's. However, while it flourished, it certainly gave the older generations something to worry about. In fact, there was a precarious period where males and females were truly indistinguishable. An immensely popular cult film titled "The Rocky Horror Picture Show"(1975) spoofed the decadent glitter/glam scene to perfection. The wonderfully decadent Dr. Frank N. Furter role, played deliciously by Tim Curry incorporated almost every possible glam rock eccentricity into one finely crafted character.
One healthy element of the glitter scene was the return of showmanship. No more dull, drab bands standing apathetically in jeans churning out endless jams. Now there was something to watch. With the emergence of brilliant performers such as David Bowie and Alice Cooper, rock aspired to total theatre.
The so-called leather and lace pretty boy look has reappeared in several configurations, especially in heavy metal factions. Glitter also invaded punk, new wave and disco.
Please note that a great number of these artists were certainly not restricted to the glitter designation. It was often a starting point for various other musical and theatrical endeavours. Several mainstream artists such as Rod Stewart, Elton John and Bette Midler jumped on the glitter bandwagon when it was fashionable, quickly re-asserting their allegiances elsewhere when the trend waned.
- David Robert Jones (Jan. 8, 1947 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/saxophonist/actor born in London, England.
- 1960 - Age 13, began studying tenor sax with Ronnie Ross.
- Originally worked as a commercial artist for an ad agency.
- 1963 - Began performing and recording in several groups including The Kon-Rads (playing sax), David Jones And The King Bees (1964), The Mannish Boys (1965) and Davy Jones And The Lower Third (1965- 1966).
- Debut single with The Kon-Rads, "I Didn't Know How Much."
- 1964 - Debut single with The King Bees, "Liza Jane."
- March, 1965 - Debut single with The Mannish Boys, "I Pity The Fool."
- 1965 - As Davy Jones, releases his debut solo single, "You've Got A Habit Of Leaving."
- Jan., 1966 - Debut single with Davy Jones & The Lower Third, "Can't Help Thinking About Me."
- After working with The Lindsay Kemp Mime Troupe (his biggest influence), he realized that theatrics and rock could be intertwined successfully.
- Changed his name to David Bowie to avoid being confused with Davy Jones of The Monkees.
- June, 1967 - Released the "David Bowie" album featuring the track, "The Laughing Gnome," which became a minor British hit in 1973.
- 1967-1968 - Recorded several discs in a flower power vein.
- Sept., 1969 - His classic "Space Oddity" went to #5 UK, later re- entering the charts and hitting the #1 position in Oct., 1975. The record peaked at #15 on the American charts in Jan., 1973.
- March 20, 1970 - Married Angie (Mary Angela Barnett) Bowie. They divorced in Feb., 1980.
- Nov., 1970 - Released "The Man Who Sold The World" album, later released in the U.S. in 1972. It was the result of his first collaboration with guitarist Mick Ronson (May 26, 1949 - May 2, 1993) and bassist Tony Visconti.
- 1971 - Bowie had a new manager, Tony DeFries and a new label, RCA.
- 1972 - Bowie realized that in order to achieve immediate recognition, he would need to create a radical performance concept. A series of bizarre theatrical characters emerged, the first being Ziggy Stardust and his band The Spiders From Mars. With his role of a bisexual space age rocker, he mastered the art of suggestiveness and manipulation of the media. His outrageousness including the wearing of makeup and female attire, initially shocked audiences yet through sheer brazenness, he won them over. Bowie became rock's first chameleon.
- During the early 1970's, he produced and wrote for Mott The Hoople and produced Lou Reed as well as composing material for numerous other artists.
- Much credit for the early Bowie sound should be credited to the talents of guitarist Mick Ronson.
- 1974 - He staged a lavishly decadent extravaganza called "The 1980 Floor Show" at London's Marquee Club, filmed for the U.S. TV show, "The Midnight Special."
- Late, 1974 - He created a new character - a white soul singer called The Thin White Duke. In this guise, he performed a mixture of dance and R&B music.
- Originally, his record company RCA had been terrified that Bowie's image(s) and unpredictability would be a problem - mainstream audiences being conservative. But through time, he broke down barriers, managing to open the door for many other unique entertainers.
- 1977-1980 - Lived in Berlin where he produced 3 albums in collaboration with Brian Eno.
- Sept., 1980 - Made his stage debut in the Broadway production of "The Elephant Man."
- 1985 - Composed the film score for "The Falcon And The Snowman."
- 1983 - Signed with Capitol, recording more commercial recordings.
- July 13, 1985 - Performed at Live Aid.
- May, 1989 - Formed a new project called Tin Machine.
- May 26, 1990 - Sued by ex-wife Angie for $56 million.
- April 24, 1992 - Married Somalian supermodel Iman.
- Film appearances include "The Man Who Fell To Earth"(1976), "Just A Gigolo"(1979), "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence"(1983) and "Labyrinth"(1986).
- Jan. 17, 1996 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- 2002 - Released the critically acclaimed "Heathen" album.
- Hits include "Changes"(April, 1972)#66 US, "Starman"(June, 1972) #10 UK, (July, 1972)#65 US, "The Jean Genie"(Nov., 1972)#71 US, (Dec., 1972)#2 UK, "Rebel Rebel"(Feb., 1974)#5 UK, (June, 1974) #64 US, "Young Americans"(March, 1975)#18 UK, #28 US, "Fame" (June, 1975)#1-2 wks. US, (Aug., 1975)#17 UK, "Golden Years" (Nov., 1975)#8 UK, (Dec., 1975)#10 US, "Sound And Vision"(Feb., 1977)#3 UK, (April, 1977)#69 US, "Ashes To Ashes"(Aug., 1980)#1 UK, "Under Pressure"(Nov., 1981)#29 US (with Queen), "Let's Dance"(March, 1983)#1 UK, #1 US, "China Girl"(June, 1983)#2 UK, #10 US, "Modern Love"(Sept., 1983)#2 UK, #14 US, "Blue Jean" (Sept., 1984)#6 UK, #8 US, "Dancing In The Street"(Aug., 1985)#7 US (Sept., 1985)#1 UK (with Mick Jagger) and "Jump They Say" (April, 1993)#9 UK.
- Arthur Wilton Brown (June 24, 1944 – )
- Singer from Whitby, Yorkshire, England.
- 1967 - Formed a partnership with organist Vincent Crane (1945 - Feb., 1989) (later of Atomic Rooster and Dexy's Midnight Runners).
- The pair formed The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown. The last drummer to play with the band was Carl Palmer (later of Emerson, Lake & Palmer).
- One of the earliest theatrical rock artists, often appearing onstage wearing a crown of flames as he sang his frenzied hit, "Fire"(June, 1968)#1 UK, (Sept., 1968)#2 US.
- 1971 - Formed the theatrical group Kingdom Come.
- 1975 - Went solo, recording the "Dance With Arthur Brown" album.
- 1969 - Rock quintet formed in Herefordshire, England.
- Originally called The Doc Thomas Group then Silence, the new name Mott The Hoople was given to them by producer Guy Stevens and was taken from the Willard Manus novel of the same name.
- Ian Hunter (Ian Hunter Patterson) (June 3, 1946 – ) Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England.
- Pete "Overend" Watts (May 13, 1949 – )
- Bassist born in Birmingham, England.
- Mick Ralphs (Michael Jeffrey Ralphs) (May 31, 1944 – )
- Guitarist born in Hereford, England.
- Dale "Buffin" Griffin (Oct. 24, 1948 – )
- Drummer born in Ross-On-Wye, Hereford, England.
- Verden "Phally" Allen (May 26, 1944 – )
- Keyboardist born in Hereford, England.
- The group adopted a glam rock persona, attracting a large cult following. Mott helped popularize platform boots. However, the music was some of the finest straight on rock ever to come out of Britain.
- Aug., 1969 - Released their debut album, "Mott The Hoople."
- Oct., 1969 - Released their debut single, "Rock 'n Roll Queen."
- March 26, 1972 - Split, later encouraged to reform by David Bowie and signed by Bowie's manager to Columbia.
- Aug., 1972 - Their classic "All The Young Dudes," written and produced by Bowie went to #3 UK, reaching #37 US in Sept., 1972. Bowie also contributed background vocals. The song was a rather revolutionary anthem with gay oriented lyrics.
- Hunter's Dylanesque lyrics and vocal style gave the group its uniqueness.
- Aug., 1973 - Ralphs left to form Bad Company. He was replaced by Luther James Grosvenor (Dec. 23, 1949 – ) of Spooky Tooth, who took the quirky name Ariel Bender.
- 1973 - Verden Allen was replaced by Morgan Fisher of Love Affair.
- 1974 - Former Bowie sideman Mick Ronson (May 26, 1949 - May 2, 1993) replaced Ariel Bender.
- June, 1974 - Hunter released his book, "Diary Of A Rock 'n Roll Star."
- Dec. 16, 1974 - Hunter went solo taking Ronson with him.
- 1976 - Watts, Fisher and Griffin formed The British Lions.
- Hits include "Honaloochie Boogie"(June, 1973)#12 UK, "All The Way From Memphis"(Sept., 1973)#10 UK, "Roll Away The Stone"(Nov., 1973)#8 UK and "The Golden Age Of Rock And Roll"(March, 1974)#16 UK, (June, 1974)#96 US.
- Hunter's only U.S. solo hit was "Just Another Night"(Aug., 1979) #68.
- Not really a group. It was basically a vehicle for singer/ songwriter/guitarist Marc Bolan (Marc Feld) (July 30, 1947 - Sept. 16, 1977) (aka: Mark Rowland and Toby Tyler) from Hackney, East London, England.
- In his youth, he was a leading mod and fashion model.
- 1965 - Changed his name to Mark Bowland when Decca released his recording of "The Wizard."
- June, 1966 - Released "The Third Degree" single as Marc Bolan.
- With singer Andy Ellison, Bolan joined John's Children who claimed to be Britain's first glam rock band. They had two minor hits, "Desdemona"(1967) and "Go Go Girl."
- 1968 - Bolan and percussionist Steve Peregrine-Took (July 28, 1949 - Oct. 27, 1980) started gigging as Tyrannosaurus Rex. Their first two albums were acoustic.
- Nov., 1968 - The third album, "Prophets, Seers And Sages" featured expanded instrumentation and Bolan's best writing to date.
- Late, 1970 - Peregrine-Took was replaced by Mickey Finn (Michael Finn) (June 3, 1947 - Jan. 11, 2003) and the duo's name was abbreviated to T. Rex.
- Oct., 1970 - Their recording of "Ride A White Swan" went to #2 UK, (Jan., 1971)#76 US. Around this time, bassist Steve Currie (May 20, 1947 - April 28, 1981) and drummer Bill Legend (William Fifield) (May 8, 1944 – ) were added.
- Oct., 1971 - The classic "Electric Warrior" album was released featuring "Get It On (Bang A Gong)" and "Life's A Gas."
- In Britain, Bolan became a teen idol and their concerts caused mass hysteria. They appeared in outrageous sequinned costumes.
- Dec., 1972 - Appeared in the film, "Born To Boogie" with Ringo Starr.
- July, 1973 - Bolan's girlfriend, soul singer Gloria Jones (Sept. 19, 1947 – ) joined as a backup singer. She had enjoyed a modest hit with "Tainted Love," later covered by Soft Cell.
- Lack of commercial success in the U.S. led Bolan to depression and drug dependency.
- Bolan's solo UK hits include "Teenage Dream"(1974) and "I Love To Boogie"(1976).
- 1977 - With the advent of punk, Bolan toured with The Damned as his opening act.
- Bolan was a direct influence on both glam rock and punk.
- Sept. 16, 1977 - Bolan died in an auto accident in London.
- Jan. 11, 2003 - Mickey Finn died of liver and kidney problems.
- Hits include "Hot Love"(Feb., 1971)#1 UK, (May, 1971)#72 US, "Get It On (Bang A Gong)"(July, 1971)#1 UK, (Jan., 1972)#10 US, "Telegram Sam"(Jan., 1972)#1 UK, (April, 1972)#67 US, "20th Century Boy"(March, 1973)#3 UK, "Truck On (Tyke)"(Nov., 1973)#12 UK, "Teenage Dream"(Feb., 1974)#13 UK and "I Love To Boogie" (July, 1976)#13 UK.
- Alice Cooper (Vincent Damon Furnier) (Feb. 4, 1948 – )
- Singer/songwriter/entertainer born in Detroit, Michigan.
- Son of a Protestant minister.
- 1959 - Moved to Phoenix, Arizona.
- 1965 - Formed a Rolling Stones styled quintet in Phoenix, Arizona using a series of names including The Earwigs, The Spiders and Nazz. They had a local hit with "Don't Blow Your Mind."
- 1968 - They based themselves in Los Angeles, changing their name to Alice Cooper (the name of a 17th century witch).
- Consisting of lead guitarist Glen Buxton (Nov. 10, 1947 - Oct. 19, 1997), bassist Dennis Dunaway (Dec. 9, 1948 – ), drummer Neal Smith (Sept. 23, 1947 – ) and rhythm guitarist/pianist Michael Bruce (March 16, 1948 – ). - Often dubbed the worst band in L.A., they began experimenting with androgynous stage gear, often sporting women's clothing and garish makeup. The show became more and more freakish.
- Managed by Shep Gordon, they were signed to Frank Zappa's Straight Records.
- July, 1969 - Their debut album, "Pretties For You" was released.
- 1969 - Moved to Detroit, Michigan.
- 1969 - A rather sordid incident at The Eastown Ballroom in Detroit involving live chickens caused a nationwide scandal.
- June, 1970 - The group appeared briefly in the film, "Diary Of A Mad Housewife."
- July, 1971 - Their "Love It To Death" album became a smashing success. It featured the hit, "Eighteen"(Feb., 1971)#21 which had originally been recorded by ? & The Mysterians as "8-Teen." I also contained their version of "Sun Arise," a staple of their stage performances.
- The androgyny was later replaced by a combination horror and illusion. The violent stage show featured elaborate props, creative lighting, film and illusion. Basically, the concept was The Rolling Stones meet Harry Houdini and Boris Karloff.
- 1973 - Embarked on a 56 city tour of the U.S. during a 90 day period.
- Feb., 1974 - Alice Cooper went solo, replacing his original band with several Lou Reed alumni.
- 1974 - Disc sales to date were over 10 million.
- Aug., 1987 - Appeared in the John Carpenter film, "Prince Of Darkness."
- 1989 - Released the critically acclaimed "Trash" album.
- June, 2000 - Released his first album in 6 years, "Brutal Planet."
- Although Alice Cooper peaked in the late 1970's, he has remained a charismatic performer, respected writer (example: "Only Women") and a true original.
- Hits include "School's Out"(June, 1972)#7, "Elected"(Oct., 1972) #26, "No More Mr. Nice Guy"(April, 1973)#25, "Only Women"(April, 1975)#12, "I Never Cry"(July, 1976)#12, "You And Me"(April, 1977) #9, "How You Gonna See Me Now"(Oct., 1978)#12, "Poison"(Sept., 1989)#7 and "House Of Fire"(Jan., 1990)#56.
- 1965 - Hard edge glitter rock quartet formed in Wolverhampton, England as The 'N Betweens.
- Consisting of Noddy Holder (Neville John Holder) (June 15, 1946 – ) (vocals/guitar), Dave Hill (April 4, 1950 – ) (lead guitar), Jimmy Lea (June 14, 1950 – ) (bass/ piano), and Don Powell (Sept. 10, 1950 – ) (drums).
- 1968 - Became Ambrose Slade.
- Feb., 1969 - Chas Chandler became their manager and their name was abbreviated to Slade.
- Their working class, boot stomping rock dressed up with colourful stage costuming caught on with the younger set. Most of their hits were penned by Holder and Lea.
- 1972-1974 - Although they dominated the British market during their heyday, Slade failed to crack the American charts.
- Dec., 1973 - Their "Merry Xmas Everybody" went to #1 for 5 weeks in the UK. It will eventually sell over 1 million copies and chart every year between 1981 and 1986.
- Dec., 1974 - Starred in the film, "Slade In Flame."
- 1980 - The group was a great success at The Reading Festival.
- 1984 - Stopped touring.
- Dec., 1988 - The group is defunct.
- Hits include "Get Down And Get With It"(June, 1971)#16 UK, "Coz I Luv You"(Oct., 1971)#1 UK, "Take Me Bak 'Ome"(June, 1972)#1 UK, (Sept., 1972)#97 US, "Mama Weer All Crazee Now"(Sept., 1972)#1 UK, (Oct., 1972)#76 US, "Cum On Feel The Noize"(March, 1973)#1 UK, (May, 1973)#98 US, "Far Far Away"(Oct., 1974)#2 UK and "Run Run Away"(Feb., 1984)#7 UK, (April, 1984)#20 US.
- Brian Connolly (Brian Francis McManus) (Oct. 5, 1948 - Feb. 10, 1997) Singer born in Hamilton, Scotland.
- 1968 - Hard rocking beat bopper group The Sweet formed in England.
- Consisting of Connolly, bassist Steve Priest (Feb. 23, 1950 – ), guitarist Frank Torpy and drummer Mick Tucker (July 17, 1948 – ).
- Torpy was later replaced by Andy Scott (1949 – ).
- Recorded 4 flop singles before meeting up with songwriters Nicholas Chinn (April 13, 1946 – ) and Michael Chapman (May 16, 1947 – ) in 1970.
- Their bubblegum oriented material brought popularity in Britain yet they were constantly panned by critics.
- 1974 - Split from Chinn & Chapman and signed with Capitol.
- By 1976, their singles sales had hit the 13 million mark.
- 1978 - Connolly left.
- 1981 - Split up.
- 1988 - Connolly and Priest briefly reformed the group.
- Feb. 10, 1997 - Connolly died of kidney failure.
- Hits include "Coco"(June, 1971)#2 UK, (Oct., 1971)#99 US, "Little Willy"(June, 1972)#4 UK, (Jan., 1973)#3 US, "Blockbuster"(Jan., 1973)#1 UK, (June, 1973)#73 US, "Ballroom Blitz"(Sept., 1973)#2 UK, (June, 1975)#5 US, "Fox On The Run"(March, 1975)#2 UK, (Oct., 1975)#5 US and "Love Is Like Oxygen"(Jan., 1978)#9 UK, (Feb., 1978)#8 US.
QUEEN
- 1972 - Theatrical metal quartet formed in New York City.
- Gene Simmons (Gene Klein) (Aug. 25, 1949 – )
- Bassist/singer born in Queens, New York.
- Paul Stanley (Stanley Eisen) (Jan. 20, 1952 – )
- Guitarist born in Queens, New York.
- Peter Criss (Peter Crissoula) (Dec. 20, 1947 – )
- Drummer born in Brooklyn, New York.
- Ace Frehley (Paul Frehley) (April 27, 1950 – )
- Guitarist/singer born in The Bronx, New York.
- Supposedly, the initials of their name stand for Knights in the Service of Satan.
- Famous for their elaborate staging, special effects, leather gear, theatrical makeup and visually stunning performances.
- Gimmickry included Simmons blowing fire from his mouth and spewing fluorescent blood. Simmons' tongue reportedly measures 7 inches in length.
- Feb., 1974 - Casablanca Records released their debut album.
- 1975 - Their "Kiss Alive" album was released, selling over 2 million by 1977.
- May, 1976 - First British tour.
- Their fans were called The Kiss Army.
- June 30, 1976 - Kiss comic books debuted.
- 1978 - Their 4 solo albums were released, each becoming a million seller.
- May 17, 1980 - Criss was replaced by Eric Carr (Paul Caravella) (July 12, 1953 - Nov. 24, 1991).
- Dec., 1982 - Frehley left replaced by Vinnie Vincent. Frehley spent 4 years overcoming drug addiction, later forming Frehley's Comet in 1987.
- Sept. 18, 1983 - The group was seen for the first time on MTV without makeup.
- 1991-1996 - Eric Singer was the drummer.
- Despite critical rejection, Kiss flourished for three decades.
- Simmons pursued an acting career appearing in films including "Runaway"(1984) and "Never Too Young To Die"(1986).
- 1996 - The original lineup reunites.
- Jan., 1999 - Stanley appeared in a production of "The Phantom Of The Opera."
- March 11, 2000 - Kiss began their alleged final tour with the original lineup. The final date would be in April of 2001.
- Feb., 2001 - Criss quit in the middle of the tour.
- Hits include "Rock And Roll ll Nite"(Oct., 1975)#12, "Beth" (Sept., 1976)#7, "Hard Luck Woman"(Dec., 1976)#15, "I Was Made For Lovin' You"(May, 1979)#11 and "Forever"(April, 1990)#8.
- Creative oddball group formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Based in the U.K.
- Featuring the duo of brothers Ron Mael (Aug. 12, 1948 – ) (keys) and Russell Mael (Dwight Russell Day) (Oct. 5, 1953 – ) (vocals) and guitarist Earle Mankey.
- Originally called Urban Renewal Project (1967) then Halfnelson (1968).
- Jan., 1971 - Their debut album produced by Todd Rundgren was a failure. After obtaining new management and changing their name to Sparks, the album was re-released.
- 1974 - Their clever "Kimono My House" album produced by Spencer Davis alumnus Muff Winwood became their major breakthrough.
- The group was dominated by Russell Mael's campy high pitched vocals and Ron's (he of the Hitlerian mustache) ludicrous stage antics. Their witty pop lyrics, intricate arrangements and unique stage show gave Sparks tremendous success in Europe but little attention in their own country.
- Their work in Germany with Giorgio Moroder predated the electro- pop sounds in 1980's.
- Sparks was a great influence on British bands like Depeche Mode and The Human League.
- Hits include "This Town Ain't Big Enough For Both Of Us"(May, 1974)#2 UK, "Amateur Hour"(July, 1974)#7 UK, "I Predict"(May, 1982)#60 US and "Cool Places"(April, 1983)#49 (with Jane Wiedlin).
- Paul Francis Gadd (May 8, 1944 – )
- Singer/songwriter born in Banbury, Oxfordshire, England.
- 1958 - Age 14, began his showbusiness career.
- Began in a skiffle band called Paul Russell & The Rebels.
- 1960 - His debut disc was "Alone In The Night."
- Recorded as Paul Raven and Paul Monday.
- 1965 - Mike Leander became his manager and co-writer.
- 1969 - Featured on the "Jesus Christ Superstar" album.
- 1971 - After rejecting the names Terry Tinsel and Stanley Sparkle, he settled on Gary Glitter and jumped on the glitter bandwagon, specializing in a party trash/rock style dominated by pounding drums and repetitive anthem-like vocal choruses.
- His backing band was The Glitter Band.
- He often appeared in a silver lame body suit, huge platform boots and his hair coiffed into an exaggerated pompadour.
- Nicknamed "The King Of Glam Rock."
- Jan. 28, 1976 - Announced his retirement from live performances.
- 1977 - Filed for bankruptcy after non-payment of taxes.
- Nov. 26, 1999 - Sentenced to 4 months for 54 child pornography offences.
- Hits include "Rock And Roll - Part 2"(June, 1972)#2 UK, (July, 1972)#7 US, "I Didn't Know I Loved You"(Sept., 1972)#4 UK, (Oct., 1972)#35 US and "Do You Wanna Touch Me"(Jan., 1973)#2 UK.
- Backing band for singer Gary Glitter.
- Jan. 28, 1976 - Went solo after Glitter's retirement.
- Hits include "Angel Face"(March, 1974)#4 UK and "Makes You Blind" (Nov., 1976)#91 US.
- 1972 - Glam rock/pioneer punk quintet formed in New York City.
- Definitive lineup consisted of David Johansen (Jan. 9, 1950 – ) (vocals), Johnny Thunder (aka: Johnny Volume) (John Genzale) (July 15, 1954 - April 23, 1991) (guitar), Sylvain Sylvain (Syl Mizrahi) (rhythm guitar/keys), Arthur Kane (Feb. 3, 1951 – ) (bass) and Jerry Nolan (May 7, 1951 – ) (drums).
- The Dolls based their sound on early Rolling Stones and were a great influence on the punk scene.
- Their look was pre-punk androgynous and grungy.
- Intentionally repulsive, they often played at and were thrown out of CBGB's.
- July 27, 1973 - Their debut album, "The New York Dolls" was released.
- Nov. 6, 1973 - Original drummer Billy Murcia died of a heroin overdose in London, England at the age of 21.
- The group was managed for a time by British rock impresario Malcolm McLaren who later managed The Sex Pistols.
- Steven Morrissey, later of The Smiths was their British fan club president.
- May, 1975 - Disbanded with Johansen going solo. He later recorded in the 1980's as Buster Poindexter.
- Albums include "New York Dolls"(1973) produced by Todd Rundgren and "Too Much Too Soon"(1974) produced by George "Shadow" Morton.
- British glam rock quartet.
- Unique keyboard dominated band with strong pop material.
- Hits include "Glass Of Champagne"(Dec., 1975)#2 UK and "Girls, Girls, Girls"(March, 1976)#7 UK.
- Steve Harley (Steven Nice) (Feb. 27, 1951 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in London, England.
- 1973 - British rock quartet formed to back Harley.
- Consisting of Harley, Jean-Paul Crocker (violin), Paul Avron Jeffreys (Feb. 13, 1952 – ) (bass) and Milton Reame-James (keys).
- Nov., 1973 - Released their debut album, "Human Menagerie."
- 1974 - Due to internal friction, Harley formed a new band.
- July, 1977 - Harley disbands Cockney Rebel, going solo.
- Hits include "Judy Teen"(May, 1974)#5 UK, "Mr. Soft"(Aug., 1974) #8 UK and "Make Me Smile"(Feb.,1975)#1 UK, (Feb., 1976)#96 US.
- David Albert Cook (July 23, 1947 – )
- Singer/songwriter/drummer/actor born in Plaistow, London, England.
- 1963 - Began as a drummer in the East London group, The Everons.
- April, 1965 - Released his debut solo single, "And The Tears Come Tumbling Down."
- Became a British teen idol, often appearing in theatrical attire.
- 1963 - Recorded his first disc, "And The Tears Came Tumblin' Down."
- 1964 - Daily Express critic, Derek Bowman became his manager.
- Dec., 1964 - Changed his name to Essex.
- 1967 - Appeared in the film, "Smashing Time."
- Oct. 13, 1971 - Appeared as Jesus Christ in the London stage production of "Godspell," which also featured Jeremy Irons as Judas.
- Film appearances include, "That'll Be The Day"(1973) and "Stardust"(1975).
- 1978 - Appeared as Che in Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Evita."
- Formed his own Lamplight label.
- Jan., 1999 - Essex is awarded the O.B.E. for his charity work.
- Hits include "Rock On"(Aug., 1973)#3 UK, (Nov., 1973)#5 US, "Lamplight"(Nov., 1973)#7 UK, (June, 1974)#74 US and "Hold Me Close"(Sept., 1975)#1 UK.
Although art rock often involved theatrics, the main emphasis was placed on lyrical content and attitude. Simply put, it was the beat generation meets avant-garde rock. It flourished in Britain and in the New York art community, beginning in the late 1960's as an alternative to the hippie/flower power movement of the period.
In 1967, the avant-garde set began frequenting a dingy Bowery club called CBGB's. The New York art community had been slow to embrace the West Coast hippie culture based on peace, love and flowers. An extremely urban intellectual clique, the New York bands reflected the violence of the streets - drug abuse, homosexuality, androgyny and S&M. Gritty, campy lyrics glamourized the seedy characters of the New York underground - the prostitutes, pimps, street toughs and pushers etc. Most of these topics, previously taboo in American pop music, possessed a certain amount of shock value, often titillating fans. Unfortunately, such disturbing ideas kept a great majority of the artists in the cult following bracket. The initial objectives of this rather select community, consisting mostly of art school graduates, were to create dark, disturbing, earthy scenarios as a setting for the new sounds.
The music itself was hard edged, minimalist and often quite abrasive, laying a foundation for seventies punk rock and its primal assault on the ears. In fact, many of the artists involved were the precursors of punk and new wave.
- (Andrew Warhola) (Aug. 8, 1927 - Feb. 22, 1987)
- Avant-garde artist/writer/film maker/personality born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- 1961 - Became a pioneer of "pop art."
- Famous for his exact reproductions of familiar objects such as his soup can label.
- 1963 - Released his first film, a 3 hour observation of a sleeping man titled "Sleep."
- 1966 - Released his now classic film, "Chelsea Girls."
- 1968 - Shot and seriously wounded by one of his starlets.
- Oct., 1969 - Launched his "Interview" magazine.
- In the 1970's, turned to portrait painting.
Warhol held court with an iron limp wrist over the so-called "in" crowd, influencing a great number of performers and the New York scene in general. The trashy stars of Warhol's underground films included Viva, Ultra Violet, Joe Dallesandro and Nico. Several were in residence at the notorious Albert Hotel in the East Village and all exerted considerable influence on the new rock scene.
In 1965, he formed "The Factory" and during 1966 and 1967, Warhol presided over The Exploding Plastic Inevitable, a group of assorted weirdos who travelled around entertaining in a sort of mixed media circus. It was this collection of characters who were responsible for creating the initial look and style of both the glitter and art rock movements.
- 1964 - Seminal alternative band formed in Lower Manhattan, New York.
- Originally called The Primitives.
- The group took its name The Velvet Underground from a pornographic paperback.
- Definitive lineup consisted of singer/songwriter/guitarist/poet Lou Reed (Louis Firbank) (March 2, 1942 – ), guitarist Sterling Morrison (Holmes Sterling Morrison Jr.) (1942 - Aug. 30, 1995), bassist/viola player John Cale (Dec. 3, 1940 – ) and drummer Angus Maclise.
- 1965 - Andy Warhol became the group's patron and recruited German singer/actress Nico (Christa Paffgen) (Oct. 16, 1938 - July 18, 1988) to perform with the group. Maclise left, replaced by female drummer Maureen "Mo" Tucker.
- 1966 - They took up residency at The Cafe Bizarre in Greenwich Village.
- Became a part of Andy Warhol's multi media show, The Factory.
- 1967 - Their debut album, produced by Warhol was released. Critics were appalled. However, their explicit lyrics painting graphic pictures of drug abuse, sexual confusion, violence and non conformity fascinated the American record buying public. Their material shocked the establishment with black and white images of life in the back streets of the Big Apple.
- Although they were light years ahead of their time, The Velvets received very little airplay. They did nonetheless attract a rather large cult following. Among their admirers were David Bowie, Patti Smith and Roxy Music. Their influence can still be felt in much of the alternative music scene.
- By late 1967, Nico had gone solo and Warhol had lost interest in the band.
- March, 1969 - Cale quit, replaced by Doug Yule. The group was now totally under Reed's control.
- 1970 - Billy Yule replaced Tucker.
- Aug. 23, 1970 - After a gig at Max's Kansas City, Reed went solo.
- Yule continued to use the name Velvet Underground until 1973.
- The pop music world was ill-prepared at that time for the blatant realism projected by The Velvet Underground. They remain one of the most influential bands of the rock era.
- 1993 - European reunion tour met with critical acclaim.
- Aug. 30, 1995 - Morrison died of non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
- Jan. 17, 1996 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Their repertoire of classic songs include "Sweet Jane," "Heroin," "White Light/White Heat," "Waiting For The Man," "Venus In Furs" and "Sister Ray."
- Recommended albums include "Velvet Underground And Nico"(March, 1967), "White Light/White Heat"(Jan., 1968) and "Loaded"(1970).
- Louis Firbank (March 2, 1942 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/poet born in Freeport, Long Island, New York.
- After attending Syracuse University, he worked as a songwriter for Pickwick Records in New York, also writing poetry which was printed in Fusion Magazine.
- 1957 - Formed The Shades, later renamed The Jades, releasing the single, "Leave Her For Me"(1958).
- 1962 - Debut solo single, "Your Love."
- 1965 - Fronted The Beach-Nuts having a #106 hit with "Out In The Sun (Hey-O)"(July, 1965).
- 1965-Aug. 23, 1970 - Lead singer and major songwriter for the New York rock band, The Velvet Underground. One of rock's most influential bands, they were too extreme for their time.
- His marriage to actress Bettye Kronstadt was a troubled one ending in divorce in 1973.
- Late, 1972 - Reed released the daring Bowie produced "Transformer" album which yielded the classic hit, "Walk On The Wild Side"(Feb., 1973)#16.
- 1973 - Released the "Berlin" album, a sordid rock opera concerned with a dysfunctional druggy couple named Caroline and Jim.
- Reed created his role of the romantic outcast, decadent street creep, cult leader and rock shaman. Unfortunately after his initial solo success, Reed became a parody of himself, never quite living up to his potential.
- 1975 - Released "Metal Machine Music," a double album of guitar feedback.
- 1978-1993 - Married to Sylvia Morales who helped him conquer his drug problem.
- His greatest contribution to the music scene seems to be his powerful influence over other artists.
- Often nicknamed "The Godfather Of Punk."
- To quote rock critic Lester Bangs - "Lou Reed is the guy who gave dignity and poetry and rock and roll to smack, speed, homosexuality, sado-masochism, murder, misogyny, stumblebum passivity and suicide, and then proceeded to belie his achievements and return to the mire by turning the whole thing into a monumental bad joke."
- 1997 - Debuted his "Time Rocker" opera based on H. G. Wells' "The Time Machine."
- His lifemate became performance artist Laurie Anderson.
- 2000 - Released the satisfying "Ecstacy" album featuring the 18 minute guitar piece "Like A Possum."
- 2002 - Released "The Raven" album, a 2 CD set based on Poe's well known poem.
- Hits include "Vicious"(1972), "Wild Child"(1972), "Satellite Of Love"(June, 1973)#119, "Sally Can't Dance"(Nov., 1974)#103, "Charley's Girl"(1976) and "Romeo Had Juliette"(1989).
- Christa Paffgen (Oct. 16, 1938 - July 18, 1988)
- Model/actress/singer born in Cologne, Germany.
- 1953 - Age 15, raped by a U.S. Army Sergeant who was found guilty and hanged.
- Starred in Fellini's "La Dolce Vita"(1961) and Andy Warhol's cult classic, "Chelsea Girls."
- 1965 - Arrived in London where she recorded the flop single, "The Last Mile."
- 1965 - In New York City, she became a part of Andy Warhol's "The Factory," later performing with The Velvet Underground. With them, she recorded one album, "Velvet Underground And Nico" (March, 1967).
- Late, 1967 - Went solo, releasing the "Chelsea Girl" album.
- Noted for her low, flat voice, she was often dubbed "The High Priestess Of Doom," "Teutonic Queen Of Darkness" and "Moon Goddess."
- Most of her solo work consisted of voice with harmonium accompaniment.
- 1974-1980 - Semi-retirement.
- 1985 - Settled in Manchester, England.
- July 18, 1988 - Died of a brain hemorrhage after a cycling accident while on holiday in Ibiza.
- Albums include "The Marble Index"(1969), "Desertshore"(1971), "The End"(1974) and "Drama Of Exile"(1981).
- (Dec. 3, 1940 – )
- Bassist/viola player/keyboardist/composer born in Garnant, South Wales.
- 1963 - Classically trained, Cale came to New York on a music scholarship to Eastman Conservatory.
- 1964 - After becoming interested in the current avant-garde music scene, Cale met Lou Reed and with him, formed The Velvet Underground.
- March, 1969 - Cale left to pursue a career as a producer, composer, arranger and solo performer.
- He has produced Patti Smith, Iggy Pop and The Modern Lovers.
- Solo albums include "Church Of Anthrax"(1971), "The Academy Of Peril"(1972) and "Fear"(1974).
- (Dec. 31, 1946 – )
- Singer/songwriter/poet born in Chicago, Illinois.
- Raised in New Jersey.
- 1967 - Arrived in New York City.
- 1971 - Co-authored the play, "Cowboy Mouth."
- She began reading her poetry at St. Mark's Church in New York, attracting a considerable cult following.
- Sept., 1971 - Creem Magazine began printing her work.
- Smith's boyfriend Allen Lanier of Blue Oyster Cult encouraged her to get into music.
- 1974 - Her "Career Of Evil" was featured on the Blue Oyster Cult album, "Secret Treaties."
- By 1974, her poems had evolved into songs and in 1975, she had put together a five piece band including guitarist Lenny Kaye.
- 1975 - Her critically acclaimed "Horses" album was released. The album was an intriguing mixture of far out lyrics and high energy protopunk.
- 1976 - Made guest appearance on the Blue Oyster Cult album, "Agents Of Fortune."
- 1977 - Broke her neck falling 15 feet off a stage during a concert in Florida.
- 1979 - Released her 5th book of poetry, "Babel."
- Lyrical influences included William Burroughs and Arthur Rimbaud. Musical influences were Jim Morrison, Lou Reed and The Rolling Stones.
- March 1, 1980 - Married former MC5 guitarist Fred "Sonic" Smith (1948 - 1994).
- 1988 - Released the "Dream Of Life" album.
- 1994 - Fred "Sonic" Smith died of heart failure.
- Often dubbed "The Punk Rock Poetess."
- Smith's influence was later noticeable in the works of Talking Heads, Television and any number of other new wave artists.
- May, 1996 - Released "Gone Again," her first album in 8 years.
- 2000 - Released her most political album to date, "Gung Ho," a tribute to Ho Chi Minh.
- Hits include "Because The Night"(April, 1978)#13 and "Frederick" (Aug., 1979)#90.
TELEVISION
ALSO SEE
- Chapter 33: Punk Rock
- Chapter 34: New Wave
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