A Roaring Celebration of Glamorous Desire and Uninhibited Energy
Ah, “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” by the one and only T. Rex, a track that exploded onto the scene and lodged itself firmly in the collective consciousness, peaking at Number 1 in the UK Singles Chart and reaching Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States upon its release in 1971. This wasn’t just a song; it was a seismic event, a glittering declaration of rock’s evolving identity, and a testament to the magnetic charisma of Marc Bolan.
The story behind “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” is as vibrant and captivating as the music itself. By 1971, T. Rex had already undergone a significant transformation. Starting as the whimsical folk duo Tyrannosaurus Rex, Marc Bolan, the band’s visionary and flamboyant frontman, steered the group towards a harder, more electric sound. This shift culminated in the creation of the glam rock genre, a movement characterized by its androgynous fashion, theatrical performances, and a raw, unapologetic rock and roll spirit. “Bang a Gong (Get It On)”, featured on the seminal album Electric Warrior, became an instant emblem of this exciting new era.
Legend has it that the song’s infectious central riff came to Bolan somewhat spontaneously. He reportedly likened it to the sound of a car horn, a seemingly mundane inspiration that he transmuted into pure musical gold. The title itself evolved, initially intended to be simply “Get It On”. However, due to the existence of another song with the same name by the band Chase, the parenthetical “Bang a Gong” was added for the US market, a title that arguably amplified the song’s primal energy and suggestive undertones.
The meaning of “Bang a Gong (Get It On)”, at its heart, is a celebration of desire and the thrill of connection. While some interpretations lean towards the overtly sensual, the song also captures the broader feeling of excitement and liberation that defined the glam rock movement. Bolan‘s lyrics, often poetic and playfully ambiguous, paint a picture of youthful exuberance and the irresistible pull of attraction. Lines like “Well, you’re dirty and sweet and you’re my girl” and “You’re built like a car, you’ve got a hub cap diamond star halo” are quintessential Bolan – a blend of the everyday and the fantastical, delivered with a swagger that was utterly captivating.
The song’s impact was immediate and far-reaching. Its driving beat, powered by the late Steve Currie‘s unforgettable bassline and the crisp drumming of Bill Legend, provided the perfect foundation for Bolan‘s distinctive vocals and the song’s iconic guitar riff. The addition of King Crimson saxophonists Ian McDonald and Mel Collins further elevated the track, adding layers of soulful energy that perfectly complemented the rock and roll core. “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” wasn’t just a hit single; it was a cultural phenomenon, soundtracking countless dances, romances, and moments of pure, unadulterated joy. It solidified T. Rex‘s status as a major force in music and cemented Marc Bolan as a rock icon, a shimmering star who burned brightly and left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Even today, the opening chords of “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” are instantly recognizable, capable of transporting us back to a time of platform shoes, glitter, and the exhilarating sound of a generation finding its voice. It remains a timeless anthem, a vibrant reminder of the power of a simple, irresistible rock and roll song to capture the spirit of an era.