T. Rex (September 5, 1972) – “Academy of Music Concert Series Opens with T. Rex” Feature – Daily News

This Daily News article from September 1972 announces the reopening of New York’s Academy of Music as a major concert venue, with T. Rex headlining the inaugural show on September 14 alongside Argent and the Doobie Brothers. The piece highlights the revival of the city’s live‑music scene following the closure of the Fillmore East.

Publication: Daily News   Date: September 5 1972 Country: United States

The article explains that since the Fillmore East closed, New York’s pop‑music scene had been searching for a new home.

Promoter Howard Stein, known for his work across the tri‑state area, announced plans to base his operations at the Academy of Music on East 14th Street — formerly the home of the Metropolitan Opera before its move uptown. Stein’s renovated 3,400‑seat venue was set to host a series of concerts throughout the autumn, with T. Rex, Argent, and The Doobie Brothers opening the season on Thursday, September 14.

The article notes that Stein had repainted and recarpeted the interior, added ramps leading from the stage to the audience, and installed footlights along the center ramp to enhance the theatrical atmosphere. The announcement positions T. Rex as the star attraction for the venue’s relaunch, reflecting their growing popularity in the U.S. following the success of The Slider and their earlier hit Bang a Gong (Get It On).

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

By late 1972, T. Rex were at the height of their American fame, touring in support of The Slider. Their appearance at the Academy of Music marked a significant moment in New York’s concert history, as the venue became a new hub for rock performances after the Fillmore’s closure.

 The article captures the transition of the city’s live‑music landscape — from the psychedelic era of the late ’60s to the glam‑rock energy of the early ’70s — with Bolan’s theatrical style perfectly suited to the refurbished opera house setting.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS  

Event: Opening concert at the Academy of Music featuring T. Rex, Argent, and The Doobie Brothers Era: 1972 – The Slider Tour / U.S. Glam Rock Peak Tone: Informative, anticipatory, and cultural

Photography: None included; text‑only venue announcement

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Announcement of the Academy of Music’s reopening as a concert venue

• T. Rex headlining the opening show on September 14 1972

• Details of venue renovations and upcoming concert series

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