Suzi Quatro – Can The Can: The Rock Rebel Who Kicked Down the Door

When Glam Rock Got Its Queen

Before Joan Jett, before Pat Benatar — there was Suzi Quatro. Dressed in black leather, wielding a bass bigger than she was, and singing with pure rock ’n’ roll fire, she was the real deal. And “Can The Can,” released in 1973, was the song that made her unstoppable.

The first time I heard that stomping beat and Suzi’s raw, fearless voice, I thought, this isn’t a pop star — this is a revolution.

The Rise of Suzi Quatro

Suzi Quatro was born in Detroit, but she had to cross the Atlantic to find her audience. After being discovered by British producer Mickie Most, she moved to the U.K. and linked up with the songwriting powerhouse team of Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman.

Their collaboration produced “Can The Can,” a fierce mix of glam, pop, and pure rock attitude that stormed to No. 1 in the U.K., Australia, and much of Europe. For many fans, it was the first time they’d seen a woman own the stage in rock music — not as decoration, but as the driving force.

The Lyrics: Power in a Catchphrase

“Can the can” sounds cryptic, but it’s really about doing the impossible — forcing two things together that don’t easily fit. In Suzi’s hands, it became a metaphor for strength, desire, and control.

“Make a stand for your man, honey / Try to can the can.”

It’s bold, playful, and perfectly in tune with Suzi’s image — part tough, part tender, and entirely fearless.

The Music: Glam Rock with Grit

Musically, “Can The Can” is everything that made early ’70s glam irresistible — pounding drums, fuzzed-out guitars, and a rhythm that makes you move whether you want to or not. But where other glam tracks leaned on glitter and flash, this one had muscle.

Suzi’s bass playing gave it weight, her vocals gave it edge, and the band drove it home with raw, rock-solid energy. It’s catchy as hell but never lightweight.

The Impact: Breaking the Boys’ Club

At a time when rock was dominated by men, Suzi Quatro didn’t just break barriers — she smashed them with her bass. Her leather-clad image and powerful stage presence influenced generations of female rockers, from The Runaways to Chrissie Hynde and Debbie Harry.

When “Can The Can” hit No. 1, it wasn’t just a hit record — it was a statement: women could rock just as hard, and maybe harder.

A Fan’s Reflection

I remember seeing Suzi Quatro on TV for the first time — she looked like nothing else out there. That confidence, that grin, that bass slung low. She wasn’t pretending to be one of the guys; she was leading the charge.

Even now, when “Can The Can” comes on, it’s impossible not to smile. It’s pure energy — three minutes of defiance and joy.

Why Can The Can Still Rocks Hard

Fifty years on, “Can The Can” still sounds fresh, fierce, and full of life. It’s one of those songs that makes you want to turn up the volume and walk a little taller.

For me, Suzi Quatro didn’t just make great rock ’n’ roll — she changed rock ’n’ roll. “Can The Can” wasn’t just a hit; it was a door opening for every woman who ever picked up a guitar and said, “Move over — I’ve got this.”