Marc (TV Series) Episode 1

MARC a music show hosted by Marc Bolan on ITV in the UK, made it debut August 24, 1977. The show was a significant moment in British television, showcasing a mix of glam rock, punk, and pop performances, reflecting the vibrant music scene of the late 1970s. It aired in the late afternoon, targeting a younger audience, and was produced by Muriel Young for Granada Television.

The series ran for six episodes, with the final one airing posthumously after Bolan's tragic death in a car accident on September 16, 1977.

First Episode (August 24, 1977): The debut episode featured a lineup of performances, highlighting both Marc Bolan’s work with T. Rex and other contemporary acts.

"Sing Me a Song" - Marc Bolan with T. Rex

A track performed by Bolan and his band, T. Rex, showcasing their signature glam rock sound. By 1977, T. Rex was past its early-1970s peak but still a major draw, with Bolan reinventing himself in the punk era.

"All Around the World" - The Jam

The Jam, led by Paul Weller, were a rising force in the UK punk/mod revival scene. This song was their debut single, released in July 1977, and its inclusion on Marc reflected Bolan’s interest in the emerging punk movement. The Jam’s raw energy contrasted with T. Rex’s more polished glam style.

"I Love to Boogie" - Marc Bolan with T. Rex

A 1976 hit from T. Rex’s album Dandy in the Underworld. This upbeat, rockabilly-infused track was a fan favorite and showed Bolan’s ability to adapt his sound to remain relevant.

"Cool Wind From the North" - Stephanie de Sykes

Stephanie de Sykes was a British singer known for her work on TV theme songs and pop singles. This track was less prominent but added variety to the episode, showcasing a softer, pop-oriented sound.

"No Russians In Russia" - Radio Stars

Radio Stars were a punk/new wave band formed by ex-members of Jet. This song, from their 1977 album Songs for Swinging Lovers, brought a quirky, satirical edge to the lineup, aligning with the punk ethos of the time.

"Heart Throb's Dance" (You Made Me Believe In Magic/ BCR)

Heart Throb's Dance a performance of You Made Me Believe in Magic by Bay City Rollers.

"Celebrate Summer" - Marc Bolan with T. Rex

A single from 1977, this was one of T. Rex’s final releases before Bolan’s death. It captured a summery, optimistic vibe, though it didn’t achieve the chart success of earlier hits.

"You Got What It Takes" - Showaddywaddy

Showaddywaddy were a rock ‘n’ roll revival band known for covering 1950s-style hits. This 1977 single was a UK Top 10 hit, adding a nostalgic contrast to the punk and glam acts on the show.

"Jeepster" - Marc Bolan with T. Rex

A classic T. Rex hit from 1971, performed to close the episode. Jeepster was a nod to Bolan’s glam rock legacy, reinforcing his status as a pioneer of the genre.

Marc Bolan was not just a performer but the charismatic host, introducing acts and engaging with the audience. His support for new bands like The Jam showed his forward-thinking approach, bridging glam and punk. He reportedly saw punk as a natural evolution of his own rebellious style.

The show captured a transitional moment in music, blending established acts (T. Rex, Showaddywaddy) with emerging punk and new wave (The Jam, Radio Stars). It was filmed in Manchester, with a lively studio audience, adding to its energetic vibe.

Production Notes: The Marc show was a half-hour program, airing at 4:45 PM, a slot aimed at teenagers. It featured colorful sets and a mix of live performances and pre-recorded segments. Bolan’s charm and star power were central to its appeal.

Tragically, the Marc series was one of Marc Bolan’s last projects. His passing just weeks after the first episode aired made the show a poignant part of his legacy. The final episode included a tribute to him.

Clips and episodes of Marc are available on platforms like YouTube, and some have been released on DVD as part of T. Rex collections.