Los Angeles-based singer/actor/radio show host Michael Des Barres has just released a new single, “20th Century Boy,” from his forthcoming album of ’70s covers, “It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll,” due out in October. Des Barres recently sat down with @skopemag to talk about this amazing cover of the T. Rex classic.
@skopemag: Tell us about your terrific new single, “20th Century Boy.” What inspired you to record this song?
Michael Des Barres: “20th Century Boy” is, for me, a resurrection of sensuality. The newness and freshness and timelessness of the music itself.
I saw the song as an anthem for a new chapter in the library of rock ‘n’ roll. An old book on a new shelf. The simplicity of Marc Bolan’s extraordinary songwriting made me want to record it immediately for this project, however that would apply to every song we recorded, and each one has its own individual rock and roll language.
@skopemag: Tell us about the recording process.
Michael: All of the songs were recorded in one or two takes. The three musicians that I chose to play with me for this project adored the music of that era, as you can tell.
My favorite moment of recording this music is its obvious physicality. It was both uplifting and characterizing a new world of sensuality and joy for us all. It also gave me freedom and spiritual motivation. After all, Marc levitated in Paris!
@skopemag: What does this song mean to you? Did you ever see T. Rex live or meet Marc Bolan?
Michael Des Barres: “20th Century Boy” is one of the most provocative and important songs of that delicious, decadent decade. Music is timeless. His music has stayed with me as much as Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry.
I was one of the first people to see Marc Bolan perform in London at The Roundhouse nightclub, sitting cross-legged on the floor, with an acoustic guitar around his neck, which his boa got in the way of sometimes. By his side was a conga player whose name was Steve Peregrin Took, another rock and roll hobbit.
