A Flash of Glam Rock Sunshine and Fleeting Romance
The Glitter Band‘s infectious 1975 single, “Love In The Sun,” while not a chart-topping behemoth like some of their earlier hits, still managed to capture a slice of the glam rock zeitgeist, reaching a respectable number 15 on the UK Singles Chart. This vibrant track, with its signature driving beat and catchy chorus, tells a simple yet evocative story of a fleeting summer romance, a passionate encounter ignited by the warmth of the sun and the carefree spirit of youth.
The story behind “Love In The Sun” is rooted in the band’s established formula of catchy, upbeat tunes designed to get audiences moving. By 1975, The Glitter Band had already carved out their place in the glam rock landscape with a string of hits characterized by their distinctive dual drumming and singalong choruses. Following the departure of lead singer Gary Glitter, the band, featuring John Springate on lead vocals for this track, continued to deliver the energetic and flamboyant sound that had become their trademark. “Love In The Sun” fits squarely within this sonic territory, offering a burst of summery energy amidst their more overtly glam-infused anthems.
The meaning of “Love In The Sun” is as bright and transient as the season it celebrates. The lyrics paint a picture of a chance meeting under the radiant summer sky, a connection sparked by the heat and the carefree atmosphere. It speaks of stolen moments and whispered words, of a burgeoning romance fueled by the idyllic setting. Phrases like “love in the sun” and “summer’s begun” evoke a sense of new beginnings and the intoxicating allure of a passionate encounter. However, there’s also an underlying sense of the ephemeral nature of this romance. The summer, by its very definition, is fleeting, suggesting that the love ignited within it might also be temporary.
The song captures the bittersweet essence of a summer fling – the intense joy and connection experienced in the moment, coupled with the unspoken understanding that it might not last beyond the season’s end. The lyrics don’t delve into complex emotional depths but rather focus on the immediate sensations and the vibrant energy of the encounter. The “dancing in the sand” and “holding your hand” imagery creates a nostalgic picture of youthful abandon and the simple pleasures of summer love.
Musically, “Love In The Sun” is quintessential Glitter Band. The driving, syncopated beat, courtesy of Pete Phipps and Tony Leonard’s distinctive double drumming, propels the song forward with an irresistible energy. The catchy, repetitive chorus is instantly memorable, designed for chanting along at the top of one’s voice. The guitars provide a glam-infused edge, while the overall production maintains the band’s signature polished yet raw sound. It’s a track that embodies the carefree spirit of the mid-70s glam rock era, a burst of musical sunshine that makes you want to roll down the windows and sing along.
For those who remember the era, “Love In The Sun” likely conjures images of hot summer days, the thrill of new romance, and the infectious energy of glam rock. It’s a nostalgic snapshot of a time when music was flamboyant, fun, and unapologetically catchy. While perhaps not as enduring as some of their earlier hits, “Love In The Sun” remains a vibrant reminder of The Glitter Band‘s ability to craft infectious pop-rock anthems, capturing the fleeting magic of a summer romance under the warm embrace of the sun. It’s a little slice of musical sunshine, tinged with the understanding that some of the most beautiful moments are often the most transient.