Slade
Slade: The Glam Rock Pioneers
In the annals of rock history, Slade stands as a towering figure, their infectious anthems and flamboyant style leaving an enduring mark on the music landscape. Emerging from the vibrant British rock scene of the early 1970s, the band quickly rose to prominence with their signature blend of high-energy rock, catchy melodies, and outrageous stage antics.
Origins and Early Success
The genesis of Slade can be traced back to 1966, when four childhood friends from Wolverhampton, England, formed the band Ambrose Slade. The group's initial sound was heavily influenced by the blues-rock of the time, but they gradually developed their own distinctive style characterized by soaring harmonies, thunderous guitars, and an infectious beat.
Their breakthrough came in 1971 with the release of their third album, "Slayed?" The album spawned two chart-topping singles, "Get Down and Get with It" and "Coz I Luv You," propelling Slade to international fame. Their energetic live performances, complete with Noddy Holder's trademark bowler hat and Jim Lea's eye-catching top hats, became legendary.
Golden Age and Commercial Triumph
Throughout the 1970s, Slade reigned supreme as one of the most popular rock bands in the world. They released a string of hit singles, including "My Oh My," "Mama Weer All Crazee Now," and "Run Runaway," which showcased their infectious melodies and the raw power of their sound.
Their albums during this period, such as "Slade Alive!" and "Slayed?" achieved multi-platinum status, cementing their status as commercial giants. Their flamboyant costumes, eccentric personalities, and unwavering commitment to their fans became synonymous with the glam rock era.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite their immense success, Slade also faced their share of challenges and controversies. In 1973, drummer Don Powell was involved in a life-changing car accident that nearly claimed his life. Remarkably, he recovered and rejoined the band within a year, showcasing their resilience and determination.
The band's relationship with the music press was often strained, with critics accusing them of being too commercial and lacking originality. However, Slade remained unfazed by such criticism, continuing to produce their unique brand of high-energy rock that resonated with millions of fans around the world.
Later Years and Legacy
As the glam rock era waned in the late 1970s, Slade's commercial fortunes declined somewhat. However, they continued to release albums and tour extensively, maintaining a loyal fan base.
In 1991, the band suffered a tragic loss when bass player Jim Lea's wife tragically passed away. This event had a profound impact on the group, leading to a brief hiatus. They eventually returned to performing and recording, but the loss of their close friend and family member cast a shadow over their later years.
Band Members
The core members of Slade throughout their golden era were:
* Noddy Holder (vocals, guitar)
* Dave Hill (guitar)
* Jim Lea (bass, keyboards)
* Don Powell (drums)
Discography
* Slade (1969)
* Play It Loud (1970)
* Slayed? (1972)
* Slade Alive! (1972)
* Sladest (1973)
* Old New Borrowed and Blue (1974)
* Slade in Flame (1974)
* Nobody's Fools (1976)
* Whatever Happened to Slade (1977)
* Return to Base (1979)
* Six of the Best (1980)
* We'll Bring the House Down (1981)
* Till Deaf Do Us Part (1981)
* The Amazing Kamikaze Syndrome (1983)
* Rogues Gallery (1985)
* You Boyz Make Big Noize (1987)
* Grand Slam (1991)
* Keep on Rockin' (2006)
Legacy
Slade's influence on subsequent generations of rock bands is undeniable. Their high-energy live shows, catchy melodies, and flamboyant style laid the groundwork for the punk and heavy metal movements that followed.
Their songs continue to be played and enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide, cementing their place as one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history.
In the annals of rock history, Slade stands as a towering figure, their infectious anthems and flamboyant style leaving an enduring mark on the music landscape. Emerging from the vibrant British rock scene of the early 1970s, the band quickly rose to prominence with their signature blend of high-energy rock, catchy melodies, and outrageous stage antics.
Origins and Early Success
The genesis of Slade can be traced back to 1966, when four childhood friends from Wolverhampton, England, formed the band Ambrose Slade. The group's initial sound was heavily influenced by the blues-rock of the time, but they gradually developed their own distinctive style characterized by soaring harmonies, thunderous guitars, and an infectious beat.
Their breakthrough came in 1971 with the release of their third album, "Slayed?" The album spawned two chart-topping singles, "Get Down and Get with It" and "Coz I Luv You," propelling Slade to international fame. Their energetic live performances, complete with Noddy Holder's trademark bowler hat and Jim Lea's eye-catching top hats, became legendary.
Golden Age and Commercial Triumph
Throughout the 1970s, Slade reigned supreme as one of the most popular rock bands in the world. They released a string of hit singles, including "My Oh My," "Mama Weer All Crazee Now," and "Run Runaway," which showcased their infectious melodies and the raw power of their sound.
Their albums during this period, such as "Slade Alive!" and "Slayed?" achieved multi-platinum status, cementing their status as commercial giants. Their flamboyant costumes, eccentric personalities, and unwavering commitment to their fans became synonymous with the glam rock era.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite their immense success, Slade also faced their share of challenges and controversies. In 1973, drummer Don Powell was involved in a life-changing car accident that nearly claimed his life. Remarkably, he recovered and rejoined the band within a year, showcasing their resilience and determination.
The band's relationship with the music press was often strained, with critics accusing them of being too commercial and lacking originality. However, Slade remained unfazed by such criticism, continuing to produce their unique brand of high-energy rock that resonated with millions of fans around the world.
Later Years and Legacy
As the glam rock era waned in the late 1970s, Slade's commercial fortunes declined somewhat. However, they continued to release albums and tour extensively, maintaining a loyal fan base.
In 1991, the band suffered a tragic loss when bass player Jim Lea's wife tragically passed away. This event had a profound impact on the group, leading to a brief hiatus. They eventually returned to performing and recording, but the loss of their close friend and family member cast a shadow over their later years.
Band Members
The core members of Slade throughout their golden era were:
* Noddy Holder (vocals, guitar)
* Dave Hill (guitar)
* Jim Lea (bass, keyboards)
* Don Powell (drums)
Discography
* Slade (1969)
* Play It Loud (1970)
* Slayed? (1972)
* Slade Alive! (1972)
* Sladest (1973)
* Old New Borrowed and Blue (1974)
* Slade in Flame (1974)
* Nobody's Fools (1976)
* Whatever Happened to Slade (1977)
* Return to Base (1979)
* Six of the Best (1980)
* We'll Bring the House Down (1981)
* Till Deaf Do Us Part (1981)
* The Amazing Kamikaze Syndrome (1983)
* Rogues Gallery (1985)
* You Boyz Make Big Noize (1987)
* Grand Slam (1991)
* Keep on Rockin' (2006)
Legacy
Slade's influence on subsequent generations of rock bands is undeniable. Their high-energy live shows, catchy melodies, and flamboyant style laid the groundwork for the punk and heavy metal movements that followed.
Their songs continue to be played and enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide, cementing their place as one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history.