In October 1971, the British glam rock band The Sweet unveiled their single “Alexander Graham Bell,” marking a significant chapter in their early musical journey. This track shines as a prime example of their initial pop-oriented sound, crafted before their defining shift into the harder, glam rock style they would soon champion. Penned by the remarkable songwriting pair Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, the song pays a vivid homage to the legendary inventor of the telephone, interweaving catchy melodies with The Sweet’s unmistakable harmonies.
Upon release, “Alexander Graham Bell” made its mark on the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number 33. Although it didn’t spark the same commercial fireworks as earlier hits like “Co-Co” and “Funny, Funny,” which soared to positions 2 and 13 respectively, the song carved out its own space in the band’s rich discography. It lingered on the charts for five weeks, reflecting a steady, respectable reception among British music fans.
This single symbolizes a pivotal transitional phase for The Sweet. As they gradually evolved from their bubblegum pop roots toward cultivating a more powerful glam rock sound, their collaboration with the dynamic Chinn and Chapman duo proved crucial. Together, they sculpted tracks that struck a delicate balance—combining broad commercial appeal with the band’s growing artistic ambitions. With its historical subject and accessible pop elements, “Alexander Graham Bell” captures this balance beautifully, offering a revealing glimpse into the band’s early 1970s evolution.
For devoted followers of The Sweet and aficionados of early 70s pop rock, “Alexander Graham Bell” stands as a striking testament to the band’s theatrical versatility and boldness in thematic songwriting. It reflects a creative daring just as they stood on the threshold of their most iconic glam rock era.
“This song really showed us moving in a new direction—merging something historical with our pop flair,” recalled a band insider from that period.
Music historian Dr. Linda Hall remarked, “The Sweet’s ‘Alexander Graham Bell’ is a fascinating snapshot of early 70s British pop-rock, capturing a moment of transition and experimentation before the glam explosion.”
