Slade and the Enduring Power of Cum on Feel the Noize
Few songs capture the fearless spirit of British glam rock as completely as Cum on Feel the Noize. Released by Slade in 1973, the anthem became one of the defining records of its era and remains a celebration of energy, confidence, and unforgettable rock and roll. More than five decades later, the song continues to stand as a reminder of the remarkable impact that Slade made on British popular music.
Formed in Wolverhampton, England, Slade rose to prominence during the glam rock explosion of the early 1970s. The band achieved an extraordinary run of success with seventeen consecutive Top 20 singles and six number one hits on the United Kingdom Singles Chart. Their achievements made them one of the most successful British groups of the decade in terms of singles sales. They also became the first act in British chart history to have three singles enter at number one, an accomplishment that highlighted both their popularity and the strength of their songwriting. Every one of those chart topping singles was written by the creative partnership of Noddy Holder and Jim Lea.
The group’s roots remained firmly connected to the Black Country in England’s West Midlands. Drummer Don Powell and bassist Jim Lea were both born and raised in Wolverhampton. Lead singer Noddy Holder grew up in nearby Walsall, while guitarist Dave Hill moved to Wolverhampton during childhood after being born in Devon. Together they developed a sound that blended hard rock, glam, and irresistible melodies into a style that became unmistakably their own.
At the heart of Cum on Feel the Noize is the commanding voice of Noddy Holder. His powerful vocals have long been celebrated as one of the defining elements of Slade’s music. Many have admired the sheer force of his singing, describing it as so overwhelming that it seemed capable of creating an entire wall of sound without any assistance. His voice carried both raw intensity and joyful enthusiasm, qualities that helped transform the song into one of the great rock anthems of its generation.
Holder’s vocal ability has often inspired the belief that he could have fronted almost any major rock band. Instead, he remained loyal to Slade throughout the group’s most successful years, a commitment that became an important part of the band’s identity. That loyalty, combined with the songwriting partnership he shared with Jim Lea, helped shape a catalog that continues to be appreciated decades after its original release.
Although Slade achieved immense success in the United Kingdom and Europe, many music enthusiasts have long felt that the band never received the level of recognition they truly deserved in North America. Even so, their reputation as an outstanding live and recording act has only grown stronger with time. For countless admirers, Slade represents far more than a seasonal favorite or a nostalgic memory. They remain a lasting symbol of authentic rock music, proving that great songs and genuine passion never lose their power.