The Glitter Band (Glam Rock Stompers)

The Glitter Band are a British glam rock band formed in 1973, originally as Gary Glitter’s backing band (initially called The Glittermen). They quickly became a successful act in their own right, known for their high-energy “stomp” sound, glittery stage outfits, saxophone-driven hooks, and catchy sing-along choruses. While tied to the Gary Glitter brand in the early days, they carved out their own identity with a string of UK hit singles in the mid-1970s.

CLASSIC LINEUP (mid-1970s)

• Gerry Shephard – Lead guitar, vocals

• John Rossall – Saxophone, trombone, musical director

• John Springate – Bass, vocals

• Harvey Ellison – Saxophone, keyboards

• Pete Phipps – Drums, keyboards

• Tony Leonard – Drums

BIGGEST HITS

• "Angel Face" (1974) – UK Top 5, their breakthrough

• "Just for You" (1974)

• "Goodbye My Love" (1975) – One of their biggest

• "The Tears I Cried" (1975)

• "People Like You and People Like Me" (1976)

• "Rock and Roll (Part 2)" (as Glittermen with Gary Glitter)

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KEY ALBUMS

• The Glitter Band (1974)

• Rock and Roll Dudes (1975)

• Hey! (1975)

• Paris Match (1977)

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Emerging from the London glam scene, they provided the powerful, stomping backing for Gary Glitter’s hits before launching their own career on Bell Records. Their sound was pure glitter rock — big beats, handclaps, and anthemic choruses perfect for parties and football terraces. After Gary Glitter’s career declined, the band continued touring and recording under various names (including The G Band) to distance themselves. Core members like John Springate and Pete Phipps kept the band active into the 21st century.

LEGACY

The Glitter Band delivered some of the most joyful and danceable glam rock of the era. Though overshadowed by their famous frontman’s later controversies, their own hits remain staples of 1970s British pop nostalgia. They represented the fun, accessible, stomping side of glam alongside acts like Mud, Slade, and Sweet.

WHY THEY MATTER

They turned the backing band into stars. With their shiny suits, platform boots, and relentless groove, The Glitter Band perfectly captured the glittery, hedonistic spirit of 1970s glam — music made for dancing, shouting, and having a great time.

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