T. Rex were an English rock band, formed in 1967 by singer-songwriter and guitarist Marc Bolan, who was their leader, frontman and only consistent member. Though initially associated with the psychedelic folk genre, Bolan began to change the band's style towards electric rock in 1969, and shortened their name to T. Rex the following year. This development culminated in 1970 with their first hit single "Ride a White Swan", and the group soon became pioneers of the glam rock movement.
T. Rex during their heyday (left to right): Bill Legend, Mickey Finn, Marc Bolan, Steve Currie
Bolan performing on ABC's In Concert, 1973
Marc Bolan was an English guitarist, singer-songwriter and poet. He was a pioneer of the glam rock movement in the early 1970s with his band T. Rex. Bolan strongly influenced artists of many genres, including glam rock, punk, post-punk, new wave, indie rock, Britpop and alternative rock. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 as a member of T. Rex.
Bolan performing in 1973
Plaque marking Bolan's childhood home, 25 Stoke Newington Common, Hackney, east London
An outfit of Marc Bolan's on display at the Hard Rock Cafe in Sydney, Australia
Gloria Jones with her and Marc Bolan's son Rolan in 2014