Band

T Rex

Mapped through Pop influences; 22 albums in the Staimusic archive.

T Rex
Biography

T Rex: history and sound

T. Rex were a British rock band, formed in 1967 by singer-songwriter and guitarist Marc Bolan. The band formed as Tyrannosaurus Rex, releasing four underground acoustic albums under the name. Tyrannosaurus Rex, more recognizable as T Rex, has established itself as one of the most iconic bands to ever come out of Britain amongst music aficionados. Led by enigmatic vocalist and songwriter Marc Bolan, the quartet experienced a level success unlike any other rock band before or since. From the colossal crunch of 'Jeepster' to the tambourine funk of 'Get it On', T Rex have produced some of the 70s' biggest hits with their rock 'n' roller showmanship, taking inspiration from glam, folk and straight up rock. With an influence so consistently evoked over four decades later by writers and bands worldwide, guaranteed that ‘T Rex Aural Delight’ is something low in calories and high in substance that listeners can really sink their teeth into!
The Extraordinary Story of T Rex: A Musical Biography
T Rex was one of the most influential bands in the British rock scene of the 1970s, changing the game with their distinctive glam rock sound and captivating performances. This band, led by the charismatic Marc Bolan, had an astonishing career full of hits, beautiful lyrics, and remarkable concerts that made them legends of their time. Even now, more than forty years later, their music is still played and celebrated worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the musical biography of T Rex, explore their music genre, and discuss their best songs and performances.
T Rex was formed in London by Marc Bolan in 1967. At first, they were called Tyrannosaurus Rex and had an entirely different sound, mixing psychedelic folk and rock. However, after few years and several line-up changes, Bolan steered the band into a new direction, pursuing a more accessible and glammed-up rock sound. The new line-up included Bolan's singing and electric guitar, Steve Currie on bass, and Bill Legend on drums. Their first big hit was the psychedelic song Ride a White Swan, which topped the UK charts in 1970. This song marked the beginning of T Rex's most fruitful era, famously known as the glam rock years.
T Rex's sound was a unique blend of pop, rock, and glam, characterized by power chords, catchy song structures, and Bolan's distinctively husky voice. Their music was often criticized for its simplicity, but it was precisely this simplicity that made it so appealing to audiences everywhere. T Rex's music was always joyful, energetic, and full of life - a reflection of Bolan's magnetic personality and his unquenchable thirst for creativity.
As for their best songs, T Rex has many classics that are still popular among music lovers today. Among the most famous ones are Get It On (Bang a Gong), Hot Love, 20th Century Boy, Telegram Sam, and Metal Guru. Each of these songs has its own unique charm, ranging from the high-energy rock vibe of Get it On to the more whimsical and poetic Hot Love. What all of these songs have in common is their infectious melodies and playful lyrics that are easy to sing along to.
T Rex's concert performances were equally remarkable. They were known for their flamboyance, wearing glitter and sequins and creating a full-on sensory experience for their fans. Bolan had an effortless stage presence, captivating audiences with his guitar playing, vocals, and eye-catching wardrobe. T Rex's most famous performance was in 1972 at Wembley Stadium in London, where they played in front of 100,000 people, making it one of the largest concert audiences at the time. They also toured extensively internationally, touring the US, Europe, and Japan, where they played sold-out shows and became loved icons of rock culture.
Critics at the time were divided over T Rex's music, some touting them as the saviors of rock and roll, while others criticized the scene as shallow and lacking substance. One of the most famous critics of T Rex was John Lennon, who, in 1971, famously said that Bolan was a little d**khead, who was just trying to be a bloody rock and roller. Nevertheless, T Rex's popularity continued to soar despite the criticism, proving that they had something special that was not easily defined.
In conclusion, T Rex's musical biography is a fascinating story of a band that reached great heights through its unique sound and magnetic personality. Their catchy songs, from the glam rock era, are timeless classics that continue to be enjoyed by music lovers worldwide. Their concerts were full of life, and their live shows were some of the most memorable in rock history. Although critics were divided over their music at the time, T Rex has become an essential part of rock culture and has left a lasting impact on the music industry. Today, the music of the iconic T Rex continues to be loved and celebrated by fans all over the world.
In conclusion, T Rex's musical biography is a fascinating story of a band that reached great heights through its unique sound and magnetic personality. Their catchy songs, from the glam rock era, are timeless classics that continue to be enjoyed by music lovers worldwide. Their concerts were full of life, and their live shows were some of the most memorable in rock history. Although critics were divided over their music at the time, T Rex has become an essential part of rock culture and has left a lasting impact on the music industry. Today, the music of the iconic T Rex continues to be loved and celebrated by fans all over the world.
Concepts

Genres, influences and musical ideas

Songs

Selected YouTube songs from our archive

Bang A Gong (get It On) - 2003 Remaster
T Rex Bang A Gong (get It On) - 2003 Remaster
Mambo Sun - 2003 Remaster
T Rex Mambo Sun - 2003 Remaster
Life's A Gas - 2003 Remaster
T Rex Life's A Gas - 2003 Remaster
Cosmic Dancer - 2003 Remaster
T Rex Cosmic Dancer - 2003 Remaster
Children Of The Revolution - Remaster
T Rex Children Of The Revolution - Remaster
Children Of The Revolution - 2012 Remaster
T Rex Children Of The Revolution - 2012 Remaster
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DISCOGRAPHY OF T REX