3 Underrated Glam Rock Gems From the 1970s

These influential but overlooked glam rock songs captured the spirit of the era.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:19pm

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While diehard glam rock fans and music historians may recognize these three songs, they remain relatively unknown to the general public. From The New York Dolls' hard-hitting 'Jet Boy' to Roxy Music's spooky 'In Every Dream Home A Heartache' and Chris Spedding's glam rock hit 'Motor Bikin'', these tunes were highly influential in the 1970s glam rock scene despite not achieving mainstream success.

Why it matters

These obscure but impactful glam rock songs from the 1970s showcase the diversity and creativity of the genre, which was often overshadowed by more commercially successful acts. Highlighting these underrated gems sheds light on the full breadth of glam rock's influence and impact during its heyday.

The details

The New York Dolls' 'Jet Boy' closed out their debut album with a hard-hitting glam rock sound and proto-punk edge, though it didn't receive the same attention as some of the band's other singles. Roxy Music's 'In Every Dream Home A Heartache' from their album For Your Pleasure was a spooky glam rock monologue about an inflatable doll, featuring contributions from Phil Manzanera and Brian Eno. Meanwhile, Chris Spedding's 'Motor Bikin'' was his only major hit, though it remains underrated even in the UK where it reached the Top 20.

  • The New York Dolls released their debut album in 1973.
  • Roxy Music released their album For Your Pleasure in 1973.
  • Chris Spedding's 'Motor Bikin'' was released in the mid-1970s.

The players

The New York Dolls

An American glam rock band formed in New York City in the early 1970s, known for their androgynous, theatrical style and proto-punk sound.

Roxy Music

A British art rock band formed in the early 1970s, known for their innovative and experimental approach to glam rock.

Chris Spedding

A British guitarist, singer, and producer who was a notable figure in the 1970s glam rock and punk scenes, working with acts like The Sex Pistols, Jack Bruce, and John Cale.

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What they’re saying

“These glam rock jams from the 1970s were pretty influential, though they'd be considered underrated today.”

— Em Casalena, Author

The takeaway

While these glam rock gems from the 1970s may not have achieved mainstream success, they were highly influential in shaping the sound and spirit of the genre. Highlighting these underrated songs sheds light on the full breadth of glam rock's creative output during its heyday.