In the golden era of glam rock, one band stood out with their catchy tunes, flamboyant style, and energetic performances – The Sweet. Among their numerous hits, "Teenage Rampage" is a gem that encapsulates the spirit of the 1970s glam rock scene. The 7" PS (picture sleeve) single release of "Teenage Rampage" not only brought the music to fans but also added a visual element that has become a cherished collectible for enthusiasts of the era.
The Sweet and Glam Rock Phenomenon:
The Sweet, a London-based band officially formed in 1970, emerged from earlier pop-oriented beginnings in the late 1960s. With the lineup of Brian Connolly, Steve Priest, Andy Scott, and Mick Tucker, they defined the glam rock sound of the early 1970s — a mix of driving guitar hooks, theatrical flair, and unashamed showmanship.
The Song:
Released in 1974, "Teenage Rampage" captures the raw pulse of youthful rebellion against conformity. With its anthemic chorus and driving guitar riffs, the song became a hit, reaching #2 in the UK Singles Chart and #1 in Germany. Its infectious energy and defiant lyrics cemented it as one of The Sweet’s signature anthems.
The 7" PS Single:
The "Teenage Rampage" 7" PS single stands out for its striking picture sleeve — a riot of color and attitude that mirrors the band’s glam rock identity. These sleeves, often featuring vivid artwork and photos of the band in full glam attire, became a visual hallmark of the era and an irresistible lure for fans.
Collectors' Item:
As vinyl gave way to newer formats, 7" singles with picture sleeves grew into coveted collector’s treasures. The "Teenage Rampage" 7" PS single, with its bold cover design and chart-topping history, remains a prized gem for vinyl enthusiasts chasing the golden age of glam.
The Legacy:
More than five decades on, "Teenage Rampage" still roars with the same exuberance that once shook the airwaves. The Sweet’s influence can be traced through generations of rock acts who followed their glitter-strewn path. This single — and its iconic sleeve — stand as vibrant relics of an age that celebrated rebellion in platform boots and eyeliner.
English Glam Rock
Glam Rock emerged in early 1970s Britain, blending catchy pop hooks with flamboyant fashion and theatrical performances. The Sweet were among its brightest exponents, mixing glittering melodies with hard-edged guitars.
RCA Victor – Cat#: 42 503
Picture Sleeve (P/S)
No custom inner sleeve included.
7" Vinyl Single – PS Picture Sleeve
1974 – Made in France
Disclaimer: Track durations not indicated on label. B-side titles and sequence confirmed from official release data.
This striking 1974 image presents The Sweet at the height of their glam rock fame, posing in front of a brick wall with a fierce, unapologetic attitude. The entire photograph is rendered in a deep red tint, contrasting the textures of stone, leather, and fabric to create a scene charged with intensity.
From left to right stand Steve Priest, Brian Connolly, Andy Scott, and Mick Tucker, each embodying the flamboyance and theatrical confidence of the early seventies British glam movement. Their costumes—metallic trousers, glittering vests, and flowing capes—reflect the blend of hard rock edge and pop spectacle that defined their sound.
The image’s red monochrome overlay amplifies its rebellious mood, suggesting both danger and allure. The brick wall backdrop gives the setting a raw, street-level realism, offset by the band’s elaborate outfits and commanding stances. Together, the four musicians project unity, defiance, and showmanship—the perfect visual echo of “Teenage Rampage”, a song celebrating youthful power and freedom.
"Give Us a Wink" is the album released in 1976 by the British Glam-rock band Sweet. It was their first album to be fully written and fully produced by the band themselves
“The Sweet – Strung Up” is a powerhouse 2LP glam rock compilation released in 1975, pairing the band’s fiery live performance at London’s Rainbow Theatre with a studio set of unreleased gems and hits. Bursting with anthems like “Ballroom Blitz” and “Action,” it captures both the raw stage energy and polished studio craft that made Sweet chart kings.
“The Sweet – Teenage Rampage” 7" single (RCA Victor, 1974, France) captures the explosive energy of glam rock’s golden age. With roaring guitars, glitter-fueled attitude, and a bold picture sleeve radiating rebellion, this collectible vinyl defines The Sweet’s signature sound — a glittering anthem of teenage power and pure rock spectacle.