Event: August 5, 1971 – Top of the Pops (Episode 396), BBC. A look at Britain’s best-selling discs, artists, and news from the Top 30. Including performances from Family, Diana Ross, and John Williams. Introduced by Ed Stewart. 40 minutes. Archive status: Wiped. Recorded the previous day (4 August 1971). Performances Featured • Dawn Feat. Tony Orlando – What Are You Doing Sunday (Played Over Charts, Chart #27) • Family – In My Own Time (Mimed, Chart #11) • Chicory Tip – Excus

Tyrannosaurus Rex’s fourth studio album A Beard of Stars marked a pivotal transition from pure acoustic psychedelic folk toward an electric sound, introducing Mickey Finn after Steve Peregrin Took’s departure and showcasing Marc Bolan’s growing confidence with guitar and production. RELEASE / PUBLICATION DETAILS Artist: Tyrannosaurus Rex Title: A Beard of Stars Date: June 6, 1970 (US) Label: Blue Thumb (US) / Regal Zonophone (UK) Format / Type:Album Country: United States Cat

The final Tyrannosaurus Rex album — and the first spark of Bolan’s electric future.