“Alexander Graham Bell” – The Sweet’s Catchy Tribute to Innovation
In October 1971, British glam rock band The Sweet released the single “Alexander Graham Bell”, a track that showcases their early pop-oriented sound before they fully embraced the harder-edged glam rock style that later defined their career. The song, penned by the prolific songwriting duo Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, pays homage to the inventor of the telephone, blending catchy melodies with the band’s signature harmonies.
Upon its release, “Alexander Graham Bell” entered the UK Singles Chart, peaking at position 33. While it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of their earlier hits like “Co-Co” or “Funny, Funny,” which reached numbers 2 and 13 respectively, the song remains a notable entry in The Sweet’s discography. Its performance on the charts spanned five weeks, indicating a moderate reception from the British public.
This single represents a transitional period for The Sweet, as they were evolving from their bubblegum pop beginnings towards a more robust glam rock identity. The collaboration with Chinn and Chapman during this era was instrumental in crafting songs that balanced commercial appeal with the band’s evolving musical ambitions. “Alexander Graham Bell,” with its historical reference and pop sensibilities, exemplifies this balance and offers insight into the band’s development during the early 1970s.
For enthusiasts of The Sweet and collectors of early 70s pop rock, “Alexander Graham Bell” stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with thematic songwriting, even as they were on the cusp of their most iconic glam rock phase.