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Marc Bolan: Beautiful Dreamer

Neal Ward

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Marc Bolan - Beautiful Dreamer

by John Bramley

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13707 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	290 pages

In the annals of rock and roll, few figures have captivated audiences like Marc Bolan. As the enigmatic frontman of T. Rex, he ascended to stardom in the early 1970s, igniting a cultural phenomenon with his infectious glam rock anthems and visionary artistry.

Now, with Marc Bolan: Beautiful Dreamer, renowned music journalist and poet Barney Hoskyns presents a captivating literary tribute to this beloved icon. Through a poignant blend of biography and poetic exploration, Hoskyns invites readers into Bolan's extraordinary world, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to the heights of fame and legend.

The Man Behind the Glam

Beneath the flamboyant stage persona and glitter-drenched exterior, Marc Bolan was a complex and introspective soul. Beautiful Dreamer delves into the formative influences that shaped his unique vision, from his early love of literature and poetry to his fascination with Celtic mythology and Eastern mysticism.

Hoskyns traces Bolan's path from his childhood in East London, where he first discovered his passion for music, to his early days as a folk singer in the buzzing London folk scene of the 1960s. It was there that he encountered the likes of David Bowie and Syd Barrett, fellow visionaries who would forever alter the course of popular music.

The Rise of Glam Rock

With the formation of T. Rex in 1967, Marc Bolan found his true calling. Together with drummer Mickey Finn, he crafted a sound that was both infectious and otherworldly, merging elements of rock, folk, and psychedelic pop. Their flamboyant stage costumes and theatrical performances quickly set them apart, establishing them as pioneers of the emerging glam rock movement.

Beautiful Dreamer chronicles T. Rex's meteoric rise to fame, marked by chart-topping singles such as "Ride a White Swan," "Hot Love," and the iconic "Bang a Gong (Get It On)." Hoskyns captures the whirlwind of concerts, recording sessions, and media frenzy that surrounded the band, providing an intimate glimpse into Bolan's creative process and the intense pressures he faced.

The Poetic Visionary

Beyond his music, Marc Bolan was a gifted poet and lyricist. His songs were infused with a rare blend of whimsy, wit, and existential longing. Beautiful Dreamer explores the literary influences that shaped his writing, from the works of William Blake to the French symbolists.

Hoskyns analyzes Bolan's lyrics with a discerning eye, uncovering hidden meanings and revealing the complexities that lay beneath their deceptively simple surfaces. He paints a vivid portrait of a restless and imaginative spirit, constantly exploring the boundaries of language and music.

Legacy and Influence

Marc Bolan's untimely demise in 1977 at the age of 29 sent shockwaves through the music world. Beautiful Dreamer pays tribute to his enduring legacy, examining the impact he had on subsequent generations of artists.

From David Bowie to Elton John, from Siouxsie Sioux to Morrissey, Bolan's influence can be seen in the work of countless musicians across genres. Hoskyns traces the threads of his inspiration, showing how his unique blend of glam, poetry, and transcendence continues to resonate with listeners today.

A Literary Journey into Glam Rock

Marc Bolan: Beautiful Dreamer is more than just a biography. It is a literary journey into the heart of glam rock, a celebration of one of its most enigmatic and influential figures. Barney Hoskyns' deft writing captures the essence of Marc Bolan, his music, and his lasting impact on popular culture.

Whether you are a longtime fan of T. Rex or a lover of rock and roll history, Beautiful Dreamer is an essential read. It offers a fresh perspective on a timeless icon, inviting you to rediscover the magic of Marc Bolan, the beautiful dreamer who left an indelible mark on the world of music.