TRex Drummer Tells All: Tony Newman's Wild Rock Stories

Tony Newman is a British drummer who is best known for his work with the band T.Rex. Newman started his music career in the early 1960s, playing with various bands in London. He gained a reputation as a versatile and talented drummer. Tony was Bolans’ drummer between 1976 – 1977. He was at various times a member of the bands Sounds Incorporated, May Blitz, Three Man Army, and Boxer, plus has also worked with Jeff Beck, David Bowie, Donovan, Mick Ronson, Gene Vincent, Crystal Gayle, The Everly Brothers and Smashers amongst others. At one time, Sounds Incorporated fronted for The Beatles.

He played on Donovan’s Swans bird graphics“Barabajagal” (1968), as well as on Jeff Beck’s Beck-Ola (1969). For David Bowie, he performed on the Diamond Dogs album in 1974, and live with Bowie on his subsequent North American tour, including a recording at the Tower Philadelphia released as David Live. Newman was one of the featured drummers on the soundtrack to the film version of The Who’s ‘Tommy’.

He was known for his dynamic, hard-hitting drumming style, which helped to drive the band's energetic sound. T.Rex's music was known for its catchy melodies, distorted guitar riffs, and whimsical lyrics that often drew on fantasy and mythology. Bolan's charismatic stage presence and flamboyant fashion sense, which included glittery costumes and feather boas, helped to make the band one of the defining acts of the glam rock movement.

He also played with the power pop band the Rubinoos in the 1980s, and with the blues rock band the Animals in the 1990s.
In addition to his work as a musician, Newman also became a successful music producer and engineer, working with artists such as Rory Gallagher and the Jam.
Today, Tony Newman is still active in the music industry, and continues to perform and record with a variety of artists. He is considered to be one of the most respected and influential drummers of the glam rock era, and his contributions to the music of T.Rex and other bands continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
During our interview Tony shares some fascinating stories about his life.
I hope you enjoy our conversation and please check out my other interviews on all the major podcast platforms as well as here on youtube.
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