Who hasn’t heard of Slade? The glam rockers have been around since the late 1960s and are considered to be one of the most influential bands from that era.Undoubtedly, their legacy has stayed strong over time - seen through endless covers and homages from the likes of Oasis,The Darkness and many more.However, it is not all positive in the case of Slade, with contemporary music critics often pitting them against punk music as obsolete relics. In this blog post we will look at both sides - delving into why some view Slade as a classic act while highlighting how they can sometimes misstep when trying to stay current. Uncovering facts both beloved and despised along the way!
If you’re a passionate music lover, you surely must have grown up listening to Slade, the glam rock band that came to the forefront in the late 1960s. The band has had a lasting impact across different genres and continues to influence contemporary musicians to this day. However, not everyone appreciates their unique flavor. And while nostalgia keeps some fans loyal to the band, others are keen to write them off as has-beens. So, is Slade a classic act or an obsolete relic? In this blog post, we will explore both sides of the argument and take a closer look at what’s good – and what’s not – about them.
Slade was formed in 1966 in Wolverhampton, UK. They achieved commercial success quickly, with their first hit, “Get Down and Get With It”, reaching No. 16 in the UK charts. Their popularity continued to rise throughout the ’70s, with hits like “Cum On Feel the Noize” and “Merry Xmas Everybody” making them one of the most successful acts of the era. Slade’s glam rock fashion, wall-of-sound music, and unforgettable stage presence were a cultural phenomenon.
Despite their remarkable success, some critics say that Slade is a relic of the past, a band that resists innovation and depends on outdated sounds from the 70s for its success. After all, the music scene has changed. With new genres and sub-genres emerging, it’s becoming increasingly harder for old acts to find relevance. For example, Slade’s 1980s output was widely panned by critics, who said that they failed to keep up with punk music and the changing times.
On the other hand, many contemporary musicians have cited Slade as a significant influence on their own work. Oasis, The Darkness, Kiss, and Guns N’ Roses are some of the prominent bands that have covered or paid tribute to Slade over the years. Why do so many tribute their music to Slade? It’s probably for their penchant for relentless melodies that linger in the mind long after the track is over and their upbeat party-ready numbers that create an incredible energy when performed live.
It’s also worth mentioning that Slade had one of the best live shows of the whole glam rock era, with Noddy Holder’s rasping voice, Dave Hill’s frenetic moves, Don Powell’s powerhouse drumming, and Jim Lea’s thumping bass combining to create an incredible impact on stages across the UK and beyond.
So, where does that leave us with Slade? It's up to you to decide. While their unique sound, iconic image, and tremendous live shows have earned them a place in the rock pantheon, their hits still resonate with contemporary generations. Meanwhile, the criticism they’ve received from music critics who doubt their ability to evolve and change with the times has also been valid.
In conclusion, Slade is an iconic band that has enjoyed incredible success and continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Whether you hate them, or love them, there’s no denying that they’ve left behind a rich musical legacy. Even though they’re no longer the most active band, their artistry is still appreciated by thousands of fans worldwide who continue to be transported back to the glory days of glam rock with every spin of their vinyl.
In conclusion, Slade is an iconic band that has enjoyed incredible success and continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Whether you hate them, or love them, there’s no denying that they’ve left behind a rich musical legacy. Even though they’re no longer the most active band, their artistry is still appreciated by thousands of fans worldwide who continue to be transported back to the glory days of glam rock with every spin of their vinyl.
