glam rock
style of rock music that developed in the United Kingdom in the early 1970s performed by musicians who wore outrageous costumes, makeup, and hairstyles, particularly platform shoes and glitter
Glam rock is a dazzling explosion of sound and style, where flamboyant theatrics collide with infectious riffs and catchy melodies. Picture yourself in a glittery world where distorted guitars meet soaring vocals, all wrapped up in vibrant costumes. The energy is unapologetic and celebratory, with an air of rebellion that invites you to dance and sing along. It's a genre that thrives on the juxtaposition of glamor and grit, creating an exhilarating experience that’s both playful and poignant.
Emerging in the early 1970s, glam rock was a reaction against the earnestness of previous rock movements, embracing artifice and spectacle. It found its roots primarily in the UK, where artists like David Bowie, with his Ziggy Stardust persona, challenged norms and redefined gender expression. T. Rex’s "Electric Warrior" became an anthem of youth culture, while Roxy Music added an avant-garde touch to the glam aesthetic. This era fostered a creative playground for musicians who reveled in excess and individuality, pushing boundaries both musically and visually.
For newcomers diving into glam rock, start with David Bowie's "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," which perfectly encapsulates the genre's audacity. T. Rex’s "Electric Warrior" is essential for its irresistible hooks and swagger. Don’t miss Queen’s "Sheer Heart Attack," showcasing their penchant for operatic flair within rock. Lastly, explore Roxy Music's self-titled album for its lush arrangement and artful sensibilities. And if you're intrigued by this vibrant world, keep your ears open to the sounds of punk rock and new wave—they share that same spirit of reinvention and freedom.
185 artists in the catalog.
Guides for glam rock artists
Top glam rock albums
See essentials
All glam rock artists
Nautilus Pompilius
art rock, folk rock
The Struts
Mini Mansions
indie pop
Gorky Park
glam metal, traditional heavy metal
Crush 40
Japanese rock, alternative metal
The Runaways
hard rock, punk rock
Bobby Conn
Alvin Stardust
rock and roll, rock music
Smack
garage rock
Moderatto
glam metal, pop metal
Chris Norman
disco, pop music
Mud
pop music
Jake Shears
alternative rock
Joey Tempest
country rock, hard rock
Palaye Royale
art rock, garage rock
Cartoons
Eurodance, bubblegum dance
About glam rock
What is glam rock?
style of rock music that developed in the United Kingdom in the early 1970s performed by musicians who wore outrageous costumes, makeup, and hairstyles, particularly platform shoes and glitter
Where should I start with glam rock?
Start with "Super Trouper" by ABBA. It captures what makes glam rock worth exploring.
What are the best glam rock albums?
The glam rock albums worth hearing first: "Super Trouper" by ABBA, "Young Americans" by David Bowie, "The Game" by Queen, "Flash Gordon – Original Soundtrack Music by Queen" by Queen and "The Works" by Queen.
How many glam rock artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 185 glam rock artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.