A Roar From the Glam Rock Jungle: When Slade Unleashed “Cum on Feel the Noize”
A primal scream, a raw, unadulterated call to abandon restraint and embrace the sheer, visceral thrill of rock and roll. That, in essence, is what Slade’s thunderous anthem, “Cum on Feel the Noize,” delivered to a generation hungry for sonic liberation. Released in February 1973, this powerhouse single stormed to the pinnacle of the UK Singles Chart, landing at number one and remaining there for two weeks. It was a seismic event, a moment when the Wolverhampton quartet solidified their status as titans of the glam rock era, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
The story behind “Cum on Feel the Noize” is one of sheer, unbridled energy. Slade, already a force to be reckoned with, were riding high on a wave of chart success. However, they felt a need to amplify their sound, to crank up the volume and connect with their audience on a more primal level. Guitarist Dave Hill, with his extravagant stage presence, suggested the title, inspired by the frenzied reaction of their fervent fans at live shows. The band, known for their raucous performances and infectious energy, decided to capture that very essence in a single track. The result was a sonic explosion, a relentless barrage of pounding drums, driving guitar riffs, and Noddy Holder’s unmistakable, gravelly vocals.
The song’s meaning, while seemingly straightforward, resonates on multiple levels. It’s a celebration of the raw power of music, a call to let loose and surrender to the moment. In an era marked by social and political upheaval, “Cum on Feel the Noize” offered a cathartic release, a chance to escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse oneself in the sheer joy of rock and roll. It wasn’t about complex metaphors or profound philosophical musings; it was about the simple, unadulterated pleasure of feeling the music course through your veins, of feeling the noise and letting it take control.
Slade, comprised of Noddy Holder, Dave Hill, Jim Lea, and Don Powell, were masters of crafting anthems that resonated with the working-class youth of the early 1970s. Their music was loud, brash, and unapologetically fun, a perfect reflection of the glam rock movement’s flamboyant spirit. “Cum on Feel the Noize” was a testament to their ability to connect with their audience on a visceral level, to tap into the collective energy of a generation yearning for release. It was also a follow up to their number one single “Mama Weer All Crazee Now” from the previous year. The song was featured on their album “Slayed?” released in 1972, which was also a massive commercial success.
The song’s impact extended far beyond the charts. It became a staple of rock radio, a timeless classic that continues to ignite audiences to this day. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its raw energy and infectious spirit, a reminder of a time when rock and roll was a force of nature, a primal scream that echoed through the streets and into the hearts of millions. It was a time of glitter, platform boots, and unapologetic exuberance, and Slade were at the forefront of it all, leading the charge with their thunderous anthem, “Cum on Feel the Noize.” The echoes of that era, the sheer, unadulterated joy of that moment, still resonate today, a reminder of the power of music to unite, to liberate, and to ignite the soul.