📰 New Pop Singles – Reviews : Jan. 1972
- Slade
- Jan 22, 1972
- 2 min read
A one‑page Melody Maker singles roundup in which Chris Welch reviewed the week’s new releases, capturing the early‑’70s UK pop landscape at the moment glam was beginning to break through. The column featured prominent coverage of T. Rex’s “Telegram Sam,” Slade’s “Look Wot You Dun,” and a wide mix of soul, pop and rock contenders, delivered in Welch’s witty, energetic house style.
Publication: Melody Maker
Date: January 22, 1972
Format: One‑page single review
Writer: Chris Welch
A moment of glam‑era ignition, chart‑driven urgency and sharp early‑’70s pop commentary.
đź“° Key Highlights
• T. Rex’s “Telegram Sam” praised as another surefire No. 1 contender
• Slade’s “Look Wot You Dun” highlighted for its drama and strong performance
• A broad slate of reviews covering soul, blues, pop and MOR releases
• Early‑’70s UK singles culture reflected through Melody Maker’s fast‑paced critique
• Strong visual presence with photos of Marc Bolan and Slade anchoring the page
đź“° Overview
This page captures the UK singles scene at the dawn of 1972 — a moment when glam was rising fast, T. Rex were at their commercial peak, and Slade were solidifying their chart presence. Chris Welch’s column delivered quick, colourful assessments of each release, balancing humour with informed musical insight. The feature stands as a vivid snapshot of a week defined by glam momentum, soul crossovers and a competitive singles market.
đź“° Source Details
Publication / Venue: Melody Maker
Date: January 22, 1972
Format: One‑page single review
Provenance Notes: Based on the original Melody Maker “New Pop Singles” column.
đź“° The Story
The reviews highlight:
• Marc Bolan’s formulaic yet irresistible hit‑making precision
• Slade’s growing confidence and chart‑topping potential
• A mix of soul instrumentals, melodic pop and blues‑based rock
• The rapid turnover of early‑’70s singles culture
• Melody Maker’s role as a tastemaker during glam’s ascent
The tone is lively, humorous and chart‑savvy — a critic surveying the week’s releases with personality and precision.
đź“° Visual Archive
đź“° Closing Notes
A defining early‑’70s singles snapshot, this Melody Maker page stands as a crisp record of the artists, sounds and shifting tastes shaping the UK charts in January 1972.
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