Wham Bam, Thank You Glam! The Struts and the Revival of Glam Rock

The Struts are reigniting glam rock with their electrifying shows and catchy rock anthems that keep the genre alive and kicking.

The Glam Rock Flame Burns Bright Again

There’s something undeniably intoxicating about glam rock—the glitz, the attitude, the swagger. While the early 2000s saw The Darkness breathe new life into this flashy, larger-than-life genre, it’s Britain’s very own The Struts who are truly lighting the fire today. These guys don’t just play glam rock; they live it, and watching them is like stepping into a time machine where Freddie Mercury’s charisma and Michael Jackson’s moves collide in a glitter explosion.

Formed in Derby, England, back in 2012, The Struts quickly made a name for themselves with their wild, theatrical live shows. Luke Spiller, the magnetic frontman, struts around the stage in sparkling costumes, makeup, and hair teased to perfection, channeling the spirit of rock legends with a cheeky modern edge. The band’s breakout moment came when they opened for none other than The Rolling Stones in front of a roaring crowd of 80,000 in Paris—talk about a rock ‘n’ roll baptism by fire! They’ve also toured extensively in the U.S. alongside iconic acts like Guns N’ Roses and The Who, proving that their glam rock revival has serious legs.

From Paris to Platinum: The Rise of The Struts

Luke Spiller recalls that Paris gig as a pivotal moment: “That was one of the real life-changing moments in our career where we had been really sort of blowing up in France, for reasons that at the time we couldn’t quite understand…” he says. Interestingly, their set wasn’t flawless—they even went over their allotted time, which led to the plug being pulled. Still, the exposure was invaluable, and touring with the Stones across the States created “a really healthy bit of synergy” that still energizes the band today.

Just two years after that breakthrough, The Struts dropped their debut album, Everybody Wants, to critical acclaim. The album’s smash single, “Could Have Been Me,” quickly went platinum and launched them into global recognition.

Riding the Wave of Glam with Hit Records and Collaborations

Since that explosive debut, The Struts haven’t slowed down. They’ve sold out venues worldwide and followed up with solid rock records like Young & Dangerous (2018) and Strange Days (2020). Garnering over 850 million streams, their music continues to hook new generations of glam enthusiasts. Their knack for collaboration is impressive, having worked with artists such as Kesha, Tom Morello, Robbie Williams, and, in a nod to their glam rock roots, Def Leppard.

Their latest single “Can’t Stop Talking” is a vivid, character-driven track about a cokehead, inspired by Luke’s observations. It’s a mix of autobiography and storytelling, delivered with a raw honesty that contrasts with their typically flamboyant image. Imagine Luke on a mid-morning in California, rocking a purple Madonna T-shirt, hair a mess, cigarette in hand—not exactly your classic glam rock portrait. “When you do that drug… you can tell someone who’s on it and they just absolutely start chewing your ear off,” he says, with a knowing smile.

A New Chapter: Pretty Vicious and Beyond

Now based in Los Angeles, The Struts released their fourth studio album, Pretty Vicious, in November 2023. Following the album’s launch, they embarked on a headlining 28-city tour across 2024, thrilling fans with their signature high-octane performances.

Aside from touring, Luke has been busy exploring new musical terrain. Over the holidays, he played a few intimate shows with pianist Mike Garson—who boasts collaborations with Bowie, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Nine Inch Nails—at The Sun Rose, a cozy venue on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. Plus, Luke is hard at work accumulating demos for future songs; after all, the demand for new Struts material is insatiable.

The Struts Life: More Than Just a Band

What sets The Struts apart isn’t just their electrifying stage presence. Their weekly podcast, The Struts Life, offers fans a backstage pass into their world. This candid series features news, interviews, and personal stories from band members and their circle, fostering a unique bond with their diehard followers. “I’m essentially in the business of making people happy and bringing joy,” Luke explains. And from the buzz around the podcast, it’s clear they’re succeeding on that front.

“I’m essentially in the business of making people happy and bringing joy. And from what I can gather, it’s definitely giving people a lot of joy.”
– Luke Spiller

Are we witnessing a true glam rock renaissance? The Struts seem to think so, and with their infectious energy and genuine connection to fans, they’re the perfect torchbearers for the genre’s dazzling legacy.

FAQs About The Struts and Glam Rock Revival

• What makes The Struts stand out in the modern glam rock scene?
  Their blend of theatricality, catchy rock hooks, and genuine charisma sets them apart. Frontman Luke Spiller’s dynamic stage presence channels classic glam legends with a fresh twist.
• How did The Struts get their big break?
  Opening for The Rolling Stones in Paris before a massive crowd was a game-changer, giving them international exposure and momentum.
• What are some of The Struts’ most popular albums?
  Everybody Wants, Young & Dangerous, Strange Days, and their latest, Pretty Vicious, have all been well received.
• Who have The Struts collaborated with?
  They’ve worked with a diverse roster including Kesha, Tom Morello, Robbie Williams, and Def Leppard.
• Where can I listen to The Struts’ podcast?
  The Struts Life podcast is available on Spotify, offering fans an intimate look behind the scenes.

If you’re a fan of The Struts or just love iconic rock album art, why not bring a little glam into your space? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store here and keep the glam spirit alive every day.