T-Rex 20th Century Boy (1973) - THEN vs NOW transformation

Details

Description

T. Rex was a British rock band formed in the late 1960s, originally known as Tyrannosaurus Rex. Fronted by the charismatic Marc Bolan, the group evolved from a psychedelic folk duo into pioneers of the glam rock movement in the early 1970s. Their fusion of rock ’n’ roll, catchy pop melodies, and glittering stage presence made them one of the most influential bands of the era.

🔹 Origins and Evolution
The band began in 1967 as Tyrannosaurus Rex, a psychedelic folk act featuring Marc Bolan on guitar and vocals, and percussionist Steve Peregrin Took. After Took's departure in 1969, Mickey Finn joined as Bolan's new musical partner. The band gradually transitioned to electric instruments and a more rock-oriented sound, shortening their name to T. Rex in 1970.

Their self-titled album T. Rex (1970) marked the shift toward glam rock, but it was 1971’s Electric Warrior that truly launched them into superstardom.

🔹 Classic Line-up (1970–1973)
The most iconic and successful period of T. Rex featured the following members:

Marc Bolan – vocals, guitar, songwriter

The creative force behind T. Rex, Bolan was known for his poetic lyrics, flamboyant style, and electrifying stage presence.

Mickey Finn – percussion, backing vocals

Added a distinct rhythmic flair and visual charisma during the glam years.

Steve Currie – bass guitar

Joined in 1971 and played on most of the band's major recordings through 1976.

Bill Legend – drums

Contributed to the tight, grooving sound of T. Rex’s biggest hits.

This line-up recorded several of the band’s most famous albums and singles.

🔹 Major Hits
T. Rex delivered a string of glam rock anthems that became staples of the 1970s UK music scene. Their best-known songs include:

Get It On (Bang a Gong)

20th Century Boy

Children of the Revolution

Telegram Sam

Hot Love

Ride a White Swan

Metal Guru

Jeepster

These tracks showcased Bolan’s knack for blending swaggering rock with pop sensibilities.

🔹 "T. Rextasy"
At their peak (1971–1973), T. Rex caused a phenomenon known as "T. Rextasy" in the UK, where their concerts drew screaming fans and their singles consistently topped the charts. Marc Bolan became a teenage idol and fashion icon, known for glitter, feather boas, and platform boots — a true embodiment of glam rock.

🔹 Later Years and Legacy
After 1973, the band’s popularity began to decline amid lineup changes and shifting musical tastes. Bolan continued recording under the T. Rex name with various musicians, but the magic of the early 70s was hard to recapture.

On September 16, 1977, Marc Bolan tragically died in a car crash just two weeks before his 30th birthday. His death effectively ended T. Rex, but his influence has only grown over time.

T. Rex's music has inspired countless artists, including David Bowie, Prince, Oasis, The Smiths, and more. In 2020, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as glam rock pioneers.
#T-Rex #transformation #70smusic #thenandnow #music #beforeandafter #then&now