T.Rex: "Blackjack" Single (1973)

Big Carrot’s "Blackjack" backed with "Squint Eye Mangle", was released as a 7-inch vinyl single in the UK by EMI Records (catalog number EMI 2042) on August 10, 1973.

Marc Bolan wrote, composed, and produced both tracks, infusing them with his signature glam rock style—characterized by catchy riffs, playful lyrics, and a raw, energetic sound. The tracks are described as “semi-instrumentals,” suggesting a focus on groove and atmosphere, typical of Marc Bolan’s experimental side.

BELOW

Text taken from an article in New Musical Express date August 25, 1973.

Bolan's Carrot

NOTICED THAT NME ad. lately for a band under the name Big Carrot, who've released a single "Blackjack."?

The advertisement shows a rather agile young lady with her head tilted backwards, ready to receive a carrot. And just about opposite her ankles are the words "produced by Bolan."

Big Carrot are in fact two American West Coast chick singers, Stephanie Spruill and Gloria Jones, plus Bill Legend, Steve Currie and Mickey Finn. In other words, they're Marc's back-up band.

He wote, produced and played guitar on the song which was recorded in Los Angeles during his last American tour.

Marc met the ladies at a re-cording on the U.S. "In Con-cert" programme, on which T. Rex were appearing. The song was written by him while he was on holiday in Barbados earlier in the year.

Depending on the success of "Blackjack" Big Carrot may release further singles and an album.

Cover art taken from the UK release of T. Rex's "The 7" Singles Box Set," produced by Edsel and released on March 16, 2015.

Cover art taken from the UK release of T. Rex's "The 7" Singles Box Set," produced by Edsel and released on March 16, 2015.

Vinyl record of "Blackjack" by Big Carrot, released on 10 August 1973 under EMI label, UK (Catalogue: EMI 2047), written and composed by Marc Bolan.

Vinyl record of "Squint Eye Mangle" by Big Carrot, released on 10 August 1973 under EMI label, UK (Catalogue: EMI 2047), written and composed by Marc Bolan.