T. Rex (August 20, 1973) – “Crowd Cheers Rock Group” Feature – Lincoln Journal Star

This Lincoln Journal Star concert review from August 1973 covers a performance at Pershing Auditorium featuring Three Dog Night and T. Rex. Written by Holly Spence, the piece praises the headliners’ crowd‑pleasing set while offering a critical take on Marc Bolan’s flamboyant style and stage presence.

Publication: Lincoln Journal Star   Date: August 20 1973 Country: United States

The article describes a packed Pershing Auditorium, with nearly 10,000 fans cheering for Three Dog Night. The reviewer notes that most of the audience came for the American group rather than the second‑billed act, T. Rex, whose “English electronic rock” sound didn’t seem to appeal to the same crowd.

Three Dog Night’s set included hits such as Shambala, Family of Man, Black and White, Mama Told Me Not to Come, Eli’s Comin’, One is the Loneliest Number, and Joy to the World. The review commends their versatility and connection with fans, calling them “the star” of the evening.

T. Rex’s performance is described as quieter but visually striking, with Bolan portrayed as “a strutting peacock” adopting “flashy Alice Cooperisms.”

His flamboyant manner and guitar theatrics are noted, though the reviewer criticizes the music as “tedious” apart from Born to Boogie. The piece concludes with mention of local Lincoln band Friends, who opened the show, and a complaint about long delays between sets due to microphone issues.

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

By 1973, T. Rex were global glam‑rock icons, but their U.S. touring success lagged behind their British fame.

This review reflects the cultural divide between American mainstream rock audiences and Bolan’s glitter‑drenched style.

The pairing with Three Dog Night — a polished, radio‑friendly act — highlights the contrast between glam’s theatricality and America’s preference for familiar rock sounds. The article captures a snapshot of Bolan’s attempt to conquer the American market, facing mixed reactions despite his confident stage persona.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS   Event: Three Dog Night / T. Rex concert at Pershing Auditorium

Era: 1973 – U.S. Tour / Glam Rock Expansion Tone: Critical, descriptive, and comparative

Photography: None included; text‑only review with “Review” icon

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Review of Three Dog Night and T. Rex concert in Lincoln, Nebraska

• Praise for Three Dog Night’s crowd‑pleasing hits

• Commentary on Marc Bolan’s flamboyant performance and audience reception

All magazine scans, photographs, and original text excerpts referenced in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This Chronicle entry is a transformative, non‑commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.

---