T. Rex

In early 1971, T. Rex exploded like a supernova across the British Isles, creating a wave of hysteria that had not been seen in Great Britain since the early days of Beatlemania. In quick succession, “Ride a White Swan,” “Hot Love,” “Get It On,” and “Jeepster” stormed the British charts, all but the latter reaching Number One. To promote “Hot Love,” the group’s lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Marc Bolan, appeared on the British TV show Top of the Pops, silver glitter dabbed under his eyes. At that moment, glam was effectively born, changing notions of authenticity in the world of rock forever.