Glam Slam Guide

The trashiest, lipsticked, high-heeled punks who looked like they mugged the Rolling Stones in an alley and stole their wardrobe.

They didn’t come from London with perfect hair and spaceships – they staggered out of the Lower East Side in torn fishnets, smeared mascara, and thrift-store dresses, playing three-chord chaos like the world was ending tomorrow (because for them, it probably was).

The Glam Slam Essentials

1. New York Dolls (1973) – Album Release (1973)The debut that scared the industry and inspired everyone. “Personality Crisis”, “Trash”, “Jet Boy” – pure NYC sleaze.

2. Too Much Too Soon (1974) – Album Release (1974)Shadow-produced – even rawer, drunker, and more brilliant. “Stranded in the Jungle”, “Babylon”, “Human Being”.

3. Live bootlegs & the Mercer Arts Center tapes

   The Dolls were a live band first – any 1973–74 boot from Max’s Kansas City or the Mercer is essential.

   
   

Where to Start Listening Today (5 tracks)

1. Personality Crisis – the ultimate “who the hell are these guys?” opener

2. Trash – beg for it, baby

3. Jet Boy – faster, louder, dirtier

4. Looking for a Kiss – the anthem of every messed-up teenager

5. Stranded in the Jungle – the cover that outdoes the original

The New York Dolls didn’t follow glam – they dragged it into the gutter, kicked it in the teeth, and left lipstick on the knuckles.Punk starts here. Turn it up, puke on your shoes, and thank them later.

Formation and Early Years:

Founding Members: The band was started by David Johansen (vocals), Johnny Thunders (guitar), Sylvain Sylvain (guitar), Arthur "Killer" Kane (bass), and Billy Murcia (drums). After Murcia's tragic death in 1972, Jerry Nolan joined as the drummer.

Influences: Their music drew from a wide range of influences including early rock 'n' roll, doo-wop, girl groups, blues, and the British Invasion, but they were also inspired by the glam rock scene, particularly bands like T. Rex and The Rolling Stones.

Musical Style:

Sound: The New York Dolls' music was characterized by its raw energy, loose playing style, and catchy, sometimes chaotic melodies. They were known for their distinctive sound which combined elements of punk, glam, and rock 'n' roll.

Lyrics: Their lyrics often dealt with themes of urban decay, sex, drugs, and the nightlife of New York City, reflecting their environment and experiences.

Fashion and Image:

Glam Influence: The band was famous for their androgynous, rebellious fashion sense, which included heavy use of makeup, platform shoes, and spandex or leather outfits. This visual style was as much a part of their identity as their music, setting them apart in the rock scene.

Key Albums:

"The New York Dolls" (1973): Their debut album, produced by Todd Rundgren, is considered a seminal work in punk and glam rock. Tracks like "Personality Crisis" and "Trash" are highlights, capturing the band's live energy.

"Too Much Too Soon" (1974): Produced by Shadow Morton, this album continued their raw sound but with a slightly cleaner production. It included covers like "Stranded in the Jungle" alongside original tracks.

Cultural Impact:

Influence on Punk: Though they didn't achieve commercial success during their initial run, The New York Dolls were incredibly influential, particularly on the punk rock movement. Bands like The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash have cited them as a major influence. Their style and attitude helped define punk's ethos.

Glam Rock Connection: They connected the dots between glam rock's theatricality and punk's DIY spirit, influencing both genres' development.

Breakup and Legacy:

Disbandment: Internal issues, including drug use, led to their breakup in 1977. Johnny Thunders and Jerry Nolan formed The Heartbreakers, while David Johansen embarked on a solo career, later becoming known as Buster Poindexter.

Reunion: In 2004, a reunion happened after Morrissey, a long-time fan, organized a show at the Royal Festival Hall in London. This led to the release of "One Day It Will Please Us to Remember Even This" in 2006, their first album in over three decades.

Later Years:

Documentary: Their influence was further cemented with the 2006 documentary "New York Doll," which focused on Arthur Kane's life and the band's legacy, directed by Greg Whiteley.

David Johansen and Sylvain Sylvain: Both have continued to perform, with Johansen maintaining a varied career in music and acting.

Legacy:

Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 2006, The New York Dolls were inducted, recognizing their impact on music.

Cultural Icon: Their music and image continue to resonate, with their approach to rock music being both a reflection of their time and an inspiration for future generations.

The New York Dolls remain a testament to the power of rock music to transcend genre boundaries, influencing not just music but fashion and cultural attitudes towards gender and rebellion.