T. Rex (band) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
T. Rex
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T. Rex during their heyday (left to right): Bill Legend, Mickey Finn, Marc Bolan, Steve Currie
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| Background information | |
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| Origin | London, England |
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| Years active | 1967–1977 |
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| Past members | Marc Bolan Steve Peregrin Took Mickey Finn Steve Currie Bill Legend Paul Fenton Gloria Jones Jack Green Dino Dines Davy Lutton Miller Anderson Herbie Flowers Tony Newman |
T. Rex was a famous English rock band. It was started in 1967 by a talented singer, songwriter, and guitarist named Marc Bolan.
The band first had a longer name: Tyrannosaurus Rex. Under this name, they released four albums that had a psychedelic folk sound. This music style was often acoustic, meaning it used instruments like acoustic guitars.
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The Change to T. Rex
In 1969, Marc Bolan decided to change the band's sound. He wanted to move from acoustic music to a more electric style. This meant using electric guitars and other electric instruments.
The next year, in 1970, he made another big change. He shortened the band's name to just T. Rex. This new, shorter name marked a fresh start for the group.
Becoming a Glam Rock Sensation
The release of their song "Ride a White Swan" in 1970 showed off their new electric sound. This song helped them become very popular. T. Rex quickly became a big part of the new music style called glam rock.
Glam rock was known for its catchy songs, exciting performances, and often, its flashy costumes and makeup. T. Rex fit right in with this exciting new scene.
T. Rex's Golden Years
From 1970 to 1973, T. Rex was incredibly popular in the UK. Their fame was even compared to that of the Beatles! They had an amazing run of eleven songs that reached the top ten charts in the UK.
They became one of the most important bands in British popular culture. T. Rex scored four number one hit songs in the UK:
- "Hot Love"
- "Get It On"
- "Telegram Sam"
- "Metal Guru"
Hit Albums and Lasting Influence
Their 1971 album, Electric Warrior, was a huge success. It is now seen as a very important album for the glam rock style. It reached number one in the UK.
Their next album, The Slider, came out in 1972. It also did very well, reaching the top 20 in the United States. In 1973, they released the song "20th Century Boy", which reached number three in the UK.
After 1973, T. Rex's songs didn't always reach the very top of the charts as often. However, they continued to record new music, releasing one album every year.
The End of an Era
Sadly, in 1977, Marc Bolan passed away in a car accident. This happened just a few months after the band's last studio album, Dandy in the Underworld, was released.
Even after Marc Bolan's death, T. Rex has continued to inspire many other musicians. Their unique sound and style have left a lasting mark on music history.
See also
In Spanish: T. Rex para niños
