Alice Cooper (August 19, 1972) – “Alice for President” Feature – New Musical Express
This New Musical Express issue from August 1972 spotlights Alice Cooper’s chart‑topping success with School’s Out and announces his next single, Elected. The bold headline “Alice for President” captures Cooper’s theatrical flair and political satire, reflecting his rise as one of rock’s most provocative figures.
Publication: New Musical Express Date: August 19 1972 Country: United Kingdom
The front‑page article celebrates School’s Out reaching No. 1 in the NME chart and becoming the biggest‑selling record in Warner Bros. history. It reveals that Cooper’s follow‑up single, Elected, would be released in November 1972 — an original composition inspired by American politics and Cooper’s tongue‑in‑cheek “campaign” for president.
A spokesman for the band told NME that “Alice is running for President,” describing the song as “a great composition the guys wrote themselves.”
The piece also notes Cooper’s plans for a major U.S. tour, new album sessions, and the construction of a 16‑track mobile recording unit at his Connecticut mansion.
The article closes with Cooper’s ambitions to tour Europe, Scandinavia, and the Continent, underscoring his growing international fame. The accompanying photograph shows Cooper in his signature top hat and makeup, performing with theatrical intensity.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
By mid‑1972, Alice Cooper had become a global sensation, blending shock rock, satire, and showmanship.
School’s Out defined his rebellious image, while Elected extended his social commentary through parody of political ambition.
The NME feature captures the moment Cooper transitioned from controversial performer to cultural icon, embodying the spectacle of early‑’70s rock.
This issue also includes a secondary feature titled “Shock ’n Roll” and a sidebar interview describing the surreal experience of “dining with a man named Alice,” emphasizing his eccentric charisma.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Announcement of Elected single following School’s Out success Era: 1972 – Shock Rock Peak Presidential Satire Phase Tone: Celebratory, theatrical, and tongue‑in‑cheek Photography: Black‑and‑white image of Alice Cooper in top hat and stage makeup, microphone in hand
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
NME front‑page headline “Alice for President” promoting Elected
Details of Cooper’s U.S. tour and recording plans
Emphasis on his growing global popularity and political parody
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