Marc Bolan (August 20, 1977) – “Marc Tunes Up for His New Style Pop Series” Feature – Liverpool Echo

This Liverpool Echo article from August 1977 previews Marc Bolan’s upcoming television series Marc, a six‑week pop show on Granada TV. The piece highlights Bolan’s embrace of the emerging “New Wave” movement and his effort to bring punk‑inspired energy to mainstream audiences.

Publication: Liverpool Echo   Date: August 20 1977 Country: United Kingdom

Under the headline “Marc Tunes Up for His New Style Pop Series,” the article announces Bolan’s new Granada TV programme, described as “New Wave” but effectively merging punk and pop.

Producer Muriel Young explains that the show will be “very exciting and very different from any pop show we have done before,” while noting that safety pins, offensive gestures, and four‑letter words are banned to keep the series family‑friendly.

The six‑week run features guest performances from leading acts of the time, including The Jam, Boomtown Rats, 10 cc, Bay City Rollers, Steve Gibbons Band, and Hawkwind. Each episode also includes a dance segment by a new troupe called Heart Throb.

The article mentions Bolan’s travel plans for filming in Manchester, recalling that his last train journey ended with him being mobbed by fans. The tone reflects both his enduring popularity and his adaptability to the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s.

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

By 1977, Marc Bolan was re‑emerging as a television personality after years of chart success with T. Rex.

His Marc series bridged glam rock and punk, introducing younger audiences to new wave acts while reaffirming his own relevance.

The show aired shortly before Bolan’s untimely death in September 1977, making it one of his final creative projects.

This Liverpool Echo preview captures Bolan’s enthusiasm for innovation and his role as a connector between musical generations — from glam’s glitter to punk’s raw edge.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS  

Event: Launch of Marc Bolan’s Marc TV series on Granada TV Era: 1977 – Late Glam / New Wave Transition Tone: Promotional, upbeat, and forward‑looking Photography: Black‑and‑white portrait of Marc Bolan with curly hair, gazing toward the camera

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Announcement of Bolan’s Marc TV series debut

• Guest lineup featuring major late‑’70s acts

• Commentary on Bolan’s continued popularity and evolving style

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