David Bowie (June 18, 1996) “Pretty boys to Pretty vacant” Glam Rock Retrospective – Telegraph and Argus

The June 18, 1996 edition of the Telegraph and Argus looks back at the evolution of glam rock in a feature titled “Pretty boys to Pretty vacant”, highlighting T. Rex’s role in the movement alongside David Bowie and others.

Publication: Telegraph and Argus Date: June 18, 1996

Country: United Kingdom Location: Bradford

Section: Music Retrospective

THE STORY

The article reflects on the transformation of rock in the early 1970s, highlighting David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust era, his Bradford show at St George’s Hall, and the shift from glam to punk. It discusses how Bowie and others redefined pop stardom with theatricality and style.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This retrospective marks over 20 years since glam’s peak. It positions David Bowie as one of the central figures who brought glamour, androgyny, and theatricality to rock music, influencing the visual and cultural landscape of the decade.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Glam rock retrospective

Era: 1996 (Reflection on 1970s Glam) Tone: 

Nostalgic, historical Photography: Archive image of David Bowie at St George’s Hall, Bradford

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Headline “Pretty boys to Pretty vacant”

• Photo of David Bowie performing at St George’s Hall

• Discussion of glam rock’s evolution and key artists including Bowie

• Contrast between glam and the rise of punk

RELATED MATERIAL

• 1972 Ziggy Stardust era features

• June 18, 1972 Daily News “David Bowie: The Elvis of the Seventies”

For other relevant posts, see the tags at the foot of the page.

SOURCES

• Telegraph and Argus, June 18, 1996

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