Chicory Tip: The Pioneers of British Glam Rock

Chicory Tip were a British glam rock band from Maidstone, Kent, best known for their chart-topping success in the early 1970s. Their major achievement was scoring the first UK number one single to feature a fully synthesized lead melody, paving the way for the electronic pop that would dominate the decade.

Early career

The band formed in 1968, initially performing under the name The Sonics before becoming Chicory Tip. They built a solid live reputation on the UK club and college circuit, honing a brand of melodic pop-rock. Their first recording contract came with the independent label Bus Stop Records, which released their debut single "What's Your Name" in 1971.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 1972 after signing with CBS Records. Their single "Son of My Father", produced by the legendary Giorgio Moroder, became a massive hit. It soared to number one on the UK Singles Chart in February 1972, certified silver for sales exceeding 250,000 copies and establishing the band as major players in the burgeoning glam rock scene.

Key tracks

Son of My Father — This groundbreaking 1972 hit was the first UK number one to feature a synthesizer as the lead instrument, a Moog part played by producer Giorgio Moroder.

Good Grief Christina — The successful follow-up single later in 1972, which reached number six on the UK chart, cementing the band's hit-making status.

What's Your Name — The band's 1971 debut single, which showcased their early pop-rock sound before their glam rock transformation.

Cigarettes, Women and Wine — A notable track from their 1972 debut album that exemplified their energetic, brass-infused glam rock style.

The success of "Son of My Father" led to the release of their debut album of the same name in 1972. The band continued recording and performing throughout the mid-1970s, releasing further albums like "Chicory Tip In 1974" and singles such as "I'll Be There". While they never repeated the phenomenal success of their first hit, they remained a popular live act, their music a staple of the glam rock era. The original lineup disbanded in 1976, though re-formed versions have toured in subsequent decades, celebrating their classic hits.

For fans of Chicory Tip's brand of early 70s British glam and pop rock, our website also features stations playing similar artists like The Sweet, who shared a flair for catchy, riff-driven glam anthems. Listeners might also enjoy Mud, another UK glam act famous for their chart-topping singles and energetic performances. The pop-rock craftsmanship of Slade also resonates with Chicory Tip's accessible yet powerful sound. Explore the music of Suzi Quatro for a different but contemporaneous take on the glam rock attitude and stage presence.

The music of Chicory Tip maintains a regular presence on the classic rock and 70s retro stations featured on our network. Their iconic hit "Son of My Father" is a frequent highlight on playlists dedicated to glam rock and pivotal moments in pop music history, ensuring their pioneering sound continues to reach new audiences.

You can discover the classic glam rock sound of Chicory Tip by tuning into the dedicated classic rock and 70s music radio stations available right here on onairium.com, where their influential catalog remains in regular rotation for all fans of the era.