T. Rex (July 1973) “The Bowie-Bolan Battle” Feature – Creem Magazine

The July 1973 issue of Creem magazine features Janis Schacht’s in-depth article “The Bowie-Bolan Battle,” exploring the rivalry and complicated relationship between Marc Bolan and David Bowie.

Publication: Creem Magazine

Date: July 1973

Country: United States

Location: USA

Section: Music Feature

THE STORY

The article details the early friendship between Bolan and Bowie, their diverging careers, public jabs (Bolan calling Bowie a “lame brain” and Bowie retorting that Bolan is “prissy and fey”), and the broader context of their competition in the glam rock scene. It includes quotes, historical background from 1969 onward, and reflections on their respective rises to fame.

CONTEXT AND NOTES 

This piece captures the peak glam rock era when Bolan and Bowie were frequently compared and contrasted. Written by Janis Schacht, it provides a detailed American perspective on the personal and professional tensions between the two British stars.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS 

Event: In-depth artist rivalry feature Era: 1973 (T. Rex / Ziggy Stardust Glam Rock era)

Tone: Analytical, gossipy, detailed Photography: Striking close-up portraits of Marc Bolan and David Bowie

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Bold headline “The Bowie-Bolan Battle” with dramatic quotes

• Large close-up portrait of Marc Bolan

• Extensive article text covering their history and rivalry

• Additional photo of David Bowie with guitar

RELATED MATERIAL

• March 2, 1973 Melody Maker “20th Century Boy” single review

• March 3, 1973 Melody Maker “The Godfathers of Rock”

• March 10, 1973 Melody Maker “Tanx for the memory” album review

• March 11, 1973 BRAVO Essen concert review

• April 7, 1973 Popswop Marc Bolan cover

• April 14, 1973 Sounds “Born to Boogie” film advert

For other relevant posts, see the tags at the foot of the page.

SOURCES

• Creem Magazine, July 1973 (by Janis Schacht)

All magazine scans, newspaper cuttings, scrapbook items, photographs and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.