Marc Bolan (September 12, 1987) – “Marc Bolan Anniversary Special" – Record Mirror
This Record Mirror issue from September 12 1987 marks the tenth anniversary of Marc Bolan’s death with a full‑length tribute and cover feature. The magazine celebrates Bolan’s life, music, and legacy, tracing his journey from T. Rex to television and reaffirming his enduring influence on British pop culture.
Publication: Record Mirror Date: September 12 1987 Country: United Kingdom
The cover presents a bold turquoise design featuring a stylized portrait of Marc Bolan beneath the headline “Marc Bolan Anniversary Special.” Inside, the multi‑page feature titled “Born to Boogie” by Robin Smith recounts Bolan’s career from his early days in Hackney through his rise to fame with T. Rex and his transformation into a glam‑rock icon. The article opens with the circumstances of his death on September 16 1977 and moves through his artistic evolution, his fascination with fantasy and film, and his lasting impact on music and style.
The feature details Bolan’s beginnings as a skiffle‑inspired guitarist, his breakthrough with “Ride a White Swan,” and the explosion of T. Rexmania that followed. It describes his flamboyant stage persona, his experimentation with glitter and eyeliner, and his ability to reinvent himself through changing musical trends.
The text includes reflections on his songwriting, his relationship with Gloria Jones, and his later ventures into television. Photographs throughout the spread show Bolan performing live, posing in regal costume, and playing guitar in his signature style.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
Published a decade after his passing, this anniversary edition of Record Mirror serves as both memorial and celebration.
It situates Bolan within the lineage of British rock innovators and underscores his role in shaping glam culture.
The feature’s tone combines admiration with nostalgia, portraying Bolan as a visionary artist whose charisma and creativity transcended his era.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Marc Bolan 10th Anniversary Tribute Era: 1987 – Retrospective on 1970s Glam Rock Legacy Tone: Reflective and celebratory Photography: Full‑colour cover portrait and black‑and‑white live and studio images
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS Record Mirror cover commemorating Marc Bolan’s life and music Feature article “Born to Boogie” detailing his career and influence
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