The allure of 70s glam rock! A host of masterpieces that colored a dazzling chapter of music history

Space OddityDavid Bowie

David Bowie – Space Oddity (Official Video)

Through the 1980s, the ’90s, and into the 21st century, Bowie continually transformed both his style and his appearance.

The early ’70s, however, can be described as his glam rock period—sparkling costumes, heavy makeup, and a stage presence only Bowie could deliver.

The performances he unveiled at that time were often described as theatrical.

Early Bowie’s Space Oddity remains a masterpiece that still evokes a cosmic expansiveness today.

Malibu Beach NightmareHanoi rocks

Hanoi Rocks Malibu Beach Nightmare Japan TV 1984

Hanoi Rocks is a band from Finland.

The vocalist, Michael Monroe, was especially popular in Japan, where female fans even called him by the nickname “Mon-chan.” This work is their biggest hit.

It’s flamboyant hard rock, and if you just listen to the track, it might come across as simple rock.

However, because the members’ fashion and stage presence were flashy and glitzy, they’re often discussed in the context of glam rock.

Too Fast For LoveMötley Crüe

Motley Crue – Too Fast For Love (live 1981) Whiskey

Mötley Crüe were called a representative band of “glam metal,” playing metal with flashy makeup and fashion when they debuted in the 1980s.

Looking at live images from 1981, you can see their distinctive fashion trends.

While their sound is pure heavy metal, this too is a form of glam rock.

Can The CanSuzi Quatro

Suzi Quatro – Can The Can

Suzi Quatro enjoyed tremendous popularity in Japan and helped define an era as a quintessential female rocker.

Many male fans were surely enthralled by the sight of her, a petite figure with a bass in hand, belting out powerful shouts.

In Japan, she’s strongly associated with playing straight-ahead hard rock, but in the UK she was reportedly known for a time as the “Queen of Glam.” With that in mind, if you look at her early album covers, she’s indeed wearing metallic, form-fitting outfits.

The track is “Can the Can,” which was also a hit in Japan, released in 1973.

Up Around The BendHanoi rocks

hanoi rocks-up around the bend video official

Here it is—the iconic anthem that represents Finland’s glam rock scene! Featured on the 1984 album “Two Steps from the Move,” this track preserves the raw appeal of original rock ’n’ roll while adding the uniquely glam flair of Hanoi Rocks.

Its lyrics carry a positive, optimistic message that frees listeners from everyday worries and invites them on a quest for freedom.

Recorded during the band’s push for an international breakthrough, the song’s energetic, dazzling sound is irresistibly replayable.

Perfect for anyone who wants to soak up the spirit of ’80s rock or experience the allure of glam rock.

The Last GoodbyeSLOWBONE

SLOWBONE – The Last Goodbye

A band that is hardly known in Japan.

There isn’t much information available, but judging from their sound, it seems to sit somewhere between glam and progressive rock.

Listening to “The Last Goodbye,” the performance has a speedy feel, like glam mixed with heavy metal.

Take Me I’m YoursJobriath

Jobriath – Take Me I’m Yours

The album cover featuring a naked man lying face down (Jobraias himself) was shocking at the time.

The album title was, fittingly, “The Mysterious Jobraias.” In Japan, he had a strong image as a novelty act, but listening to this record, you can tell he sings well and the song structures are solid, making you think he deserved more recognition.

This glam-style work, with an uptempo feel and effective use of backing vocals for a luxurious flair, was released in 1973.