T. Rex – Electric Warrior (Reprise) Released: September 24, 1971
So I remember buying this cassette tape when I was 14 or so after hearing the classic track “Bang A Gong (Get It On)” on the radio. This record changed everything. It introduced the world to the term “Glam Rock” and paved the way for such artists as Bowie and Roxy Music. It is the second album by this British rock group and is ranked #160 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time and considered the quintessential glam rock recording by many. A masterpiece from start to finish, this gem also features other T. Rex favorites such as “Jeepster”, “Girl” and “Cosmic Dancer”.This is essential listening for any music fan and should be a staple in every collection.
Songwriter and frontman Mark Bolan became one of the most recognisable stars of British music. Interestingly Bolan never learned to drive, fearing a premature death and ironically died on 16 September 1977, two weeks before his 30th birthday as a passenger in a purple Mini driven by fellow musician Gloria Jones. In a 1971 interview, said of the album “I think Electric Warrior, for me, is the first album which is a statement of 1971 for us in England. I mean that’s… If anyone ever wanted to know why we were big in the other part of the world, that album says it, for me.”
Check out the rare video from the band’s defining moment in Rock n roll history below.. Now let’s get them into the Hall of Fame. There is already an online petition HERE and the comments are very entertaining. Also check out this great article on the growing list of Rock N Roll Hall of Fame worthy contenders who continue to be overlooked HERE.