T. Rex (September 19, 1972) – “Q&A: What does the rock name mean?” – The Brainerd Dispatch
This Brainerd Dispatch Q&A column from September 19 1972 answers a reader’s question about the origin of the band name T. Rex, offering a mix of factual background and colorful commentary on Marc Bolan’s persona and fame.
Publication: The Brainerd Dispatch / The Brainerd Daily Dispatch Date: September 19 1972 Country: United States
Responding to a query from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the column explains that T. Rex began as Tyrannosaurus Rex in the late 1960s before electrifying their sound and shortening the name. It notes the band’s rapid success—selling 16 million records in a year—and humorously compares the name’s popularity to that of a British cooking fat brand called TREX.
The piece describes Marc Bolan as the group’s leader, living in fear of fans outside his London flat, and portrays him as a flamboyant figure who wears girls’ shoes “because they are comfortable and I have small feet.” It adds that Bolan often placed a plastic tear on his face before performing, underscoring his theatrical style.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
By 1972, Marc Bolan had become a household name, embodying the glam‑rock movement’s mix of eccentricity and charm.
This American newspaper snippet captures the fascination with Bolan’s image and the curiosity surrounding his band’s unusual name.
The playful tone reflects how U.S. media viewed British glam rock—with both admiration and bemusement—as Bolan’s fame reached its peak.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Explanation of T. Rex band name and Marc Bolan’s persona
Era: 1972 – The Slider / Glam Rock Peak Tone: Lighthearted and informative Photography: None included; text‑only Q&A column
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS - Origin of the band name T. Rex and its connection to Tyrannosaurus Rex - Details of Marc Bolan’s appearance and stage habits - Comparison to TREX cooking fat as a humorous aside
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