June 3, 1947:

Michael Norman "Mickey" Finn Percussionist and sideman to Marc Bolan in the British glam rock band T. Rex, initially joining its predecessor, Tyrannosaurus Rex, in late 1969. Born in Thornton Heath, Surrey, Finn replaced Steve Peregrin Took and contributed to the album A Beard of Stars (1970), marking the band’s shift from acoustic folk to a heavier, electric sound that defined T. Rex’s glam rock era. Known for playing congas, bongos, and occasional bass, Finn was a key visual and musical presence during T. Rex’s peak from 1970 to 1973, contributing to hits like “Ride a White Swan,” “Hot Love,” “Get It On,” and “Metal Guru.” His role was as much about stage presence as percussion, with rumors suggesting Bolan hired him partly for his good looks and motorcycle. Finn’s simpler rhythms contrasted with Took’s complex patterns, aligning with Bolan’s move toward pop-oriented glam rock.

Finn left T. Rex in 1975 due to tensions with Bolan and the band’s increasingly electric sound, which sidelined his percussion. Finn also worked as a session musician for bands like The Blow Monkeys and The Soup Dragons and briefly joined the Croydon R&B band WD40 in 1991 until health issues forced his retirement. In 1997, inspired by a Marc Bolan 50th anniversary concert, Finn formed Mickey Finn’s T-Rex with former T. Rex members Paul Fenton and Jack Green, later joined by vocalist Rob Benson. The band toured Europe and Japan, releasing albums like Renaissance (2002) and Classic Hits (2008), continuing as a tribute act after Finn’s death in 2003 from liver and kidney failure at age 55.

Finn’s legacy is tied to T. Rex’s glam rock stardom, with his image and stage charisma complementing Bolan’s flamboyance, though some criticized his musical contributions as secondary to his visual appeal. Posts on X reflect ongoing appreciation, marking his birthday and role in T. Rex’s history.