Possible Clues:

• Use force to get ten in the tree up there
• Former Queen guitarist finally producing strain
• Push (oneself)
• Apply vote — raised palm perhaps should secure it
• Put into action, as effort
• Apply to get English glam rock band backing
• Cause (oneself) to make a strenuous effort
• Authority has no pressure to apply
• Make an effort
• Bring to bear (influence)