David Bowie, born on January 8, 1947, was an iconic English musician, actor, and record producer who left an indelible mark on the world of music and popular culture. Bowie’s career spanned over five decades, during which he continually reinvented himself and his music, earning him the nickname “The Chameleon of Rock.” He was known for his eclectic musical styles, flamboyant stage presence, and innovative approach to both music and fashion.
Bowie achieved widespread recognition with his breakthrough album, “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” (1972), which introduced the world to his alter ego Ziggy Stardust. Over the years, he explored various genres, from glam rock to soul, electronic, and experimental music, producing a diverse and influential body of work.
Some of Bowie’s most notable albums include “Hunky Dory” (1971), “Heroes” (1977), and “Let’s Dance” (1983). His hits include timeless classics such as “Space Oddity,” “Heroes,” “Let’s Dance,” and “Life on Mars.”
In addition to his musical achievements, Bowie was a celebrated actor, featuring in films like “The Man Who Fell to Earth” (1976) and “Labyrinth” (1986). Bowie’s impact on the arts and popular culture remains profound, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans worldwide. Bowie passed away on January 10, 2016, just two days after his 69th birthday and the release of his final studio album, “Blackstar.”
1. Seven Years In Tibet – Earthling
“Seven Years in Tibet” is a track from David Bowie’s Earthling album, released in 1997. Earthling marked a departure from the industrial sound of Bowie’s previous album, Outside, and embraced elements of drum and bass, techno, and electronic music.
“Seven Years in Tibet” is known for its distinctive sound, featuring prominent drum and bass rhythms, electronic textures, and Bowie’s characteristic vocals. The lyrics of the song reference the experiences of Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer, who spent seven years in Tibet and wrote about his adventures in the autobiographical book “Seven Years in Tibet,” later adapted into a film.
The Earthling album, including “Seven Years in Tibet,” showcased Bowie’s willingness to experiment with contemporary electronic and dance music trends. Bowie collaborated with musicians such as Reeves Gabrels, Mark Plati, and others to create a sound that reflected the evolving music landscape of the late 1990s.
“Seven Years in Tibet” remains a notable track in Bowie’s extensive discography, demonstrating his ability to embrace new musical styles and adapt to the ever-changing music scene while maintaining his distinctive artistic voice.
2. Ashes To Ashes – Scary Monsters
“Ashes to Ashes” is a single by David Bowie from his fourteenth studio album, “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps),” released in 1980. The song is notable for its avant-garde style, combining elements of new wave, art rock, and electronic music. “Scary Monsters” marked Bowie’s return to a more mainstream sound after his experimental Berlin Trilogy.
The lyrics of “Ashes to Ashes” are often interpreted as a reflection on Bowie’s own past, revisiting themes and characters from his earlier work, particularly the Major Tom character from “Space Oddity.” The music video for the song, directed by Bowie and David Mallet, is memorable for its surreal and visually striking imagery, featuring Bowie in a Pierrot costume and various symbolic scenes.
The title “Ashes to Ashes” is a phrase derived from the Anglican burial service and is often associated with the idea of mortality and the cyclical nature of life. The song became one of Bowie’s most successful singles, reaching the top of the UK charts.
“Ashes to Ashes” is considered a pivotal moment in Bowie’s career, blending his artistic experimentation with a commercially successful sound. The song’s innovative music and visual elements contribute to its enduring impact in the realm of pop and rock music.
3. Lazarus – Blackstar
“Lazarus” is a song by David Bowie, and it is the second single from his twenty-fifth and final studio album, “Blackstar,” released in 2016. The song was released on December 17, 2015, prior to the album’s release in January 2016. “Lazarus” was one of the last pieces of music Bowie recorded before his death on January 10, 2016.
The lyrics of “Lazarus” have been interpreted as Bowie’s reflection on mortality, as well as a contemplation of his own impending death. The biblical reference to Lazarus, who was resurrected by Jesus, adds a layer of symbolism to the song, suggesting themes of rebirth and transcendence.
Musically, “Lazarus” is a haunting and atmospheric track with a mix of rock, jazz, and experimental elements. Bowie’s vocals are poignant and filled with emotion, and the song features a distinctive saxophone performance by Donny McCaslin.
The accompanying music video for “Lazarus” gained attention for its surreal and symbolic imagery. Bowie, who was aware of his declining health during the recording of “Blackstar,” used the video and the album as a form of artistic expression and a farewell to his fans.
“Lazarus” received critical acclaim for its depth, complexity, and emotional resonance. It stands as a powerful and poignant piece in the context of Bowie’s final artistic statement with “Blackstar.”
4. Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
“Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide” is the closing track on David Bowie’s iconic concept album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,” released in 1972. This song serves as the conclusion to the narrative of Ziggy Stardust, Bowie’s fictional alter ego.
In “Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide,” Ziggy Stardust, the rock star messiah, faces the consequences of his hedonistic lifestyle. The song explores themes of fame, identity, and the transient nature of rock and roll. The title suggests the self-destructive nature of the rock and roll lifestyle, and the lyrics encourage the listener to “put on your red shoes and dance the blues,” embracing life despite its challenges.
Musically, the song starts with a slow, dramatic build-up, and then it erupts into a powerful and anthemic climax. Bowie’s emotive vocals and Mick Ronson’s guitar work contribute to the intensity of the track. The theatrical and dynamic nature of “Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide” encapsulates the grandiosity and drama of Ziggy Stardust’s story.
As the final track on Ziggy Stardust’s narrative, “Rock ‘N’ Roll Suicide” is a poignant and dramatic conclusion. It has become one of Bowie’s signature songs and is often celebrated for its emotional depth and theatrical presentation.
5. Space Oddity – David Bowie
“Space Oddity” is one of David Bowie’s most iconic and enduring songs. Released in 1969, it served as the lead single for Bowie’s self-titled second studio album, known as “David Bowie” in the UK and “Space Oddity” in the US. The song’s release coincided with the Apollo 11 moon landing, adding to its thematic resonance.
The narrative of “Space Oddity” tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who loses communication with Ground Control and becomes stranded in space. The song is characterized by its folk-rock sound and Bowie’s distinctive vocal delivery. The chorus, with its famous line “Ground Control to Major Tom,” became instantly recognizable and is a hallmark of the song.
The success of “Space Oddity” marked a turning point in Bowie’s career, propelling him to international fame. The song’s popularity was further solidified by its use in various media, and it remains one of Bowie’s most celebrated works. Over the years, Bowie revisited the character of Major Tom in other songs, creating a thematic continuity within his discography.
“Space Oddity” is not only a musical achievement but also a cultural touchstone, capturing the spirit of the late 1960s and becoming a timeless classic in the realm of rock and popular music.
6. Fame – Young Americans
“Fame” is a song by David Bowie, co-written with John Lennon and Carlos Alomar, and it was released on Bowie’s 1975 album “Young Americans.” The track marks a significant departure from Bowie’s previous glam rock sound, incorporating elements of funk and soul, reflecting the influence of American R&B music.
The lyrics of “Fame” touch on themes of celebrity and the impact of fame on an individual. John Lennon’s contributions to the song, both vocally and in writing, added a unique flavor. The repeated refrain “Fame, what you like is in the limo” reflects on the superficial and isolating aspects of celebrity life.
Musically, “Fame” features a distinctive guitar riff, a funky rhythm section, and Bowie’s soulful vocal delivery. The track’s innovative production and its fusion of different musical styles contributed to its success. “Fame” became Bowie’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
The collaboration between David Bowie and John Lennon on “Fame” was a notable moment in both artists’ careers. The song remains a classic from Bowie’s catalog, celebrated for its genre-blending approach and its exploration of fame and its complexities.
7. Blackout – Heroes
“Blackout” is a track from David Bowie’s album “Heroes,” released in 1977. The album is part of Bowie’s celebrated Berlin Trilogy, which also includes “Low” and “Lodger.” “Blackout” is known for its energetic and intense sound, featuring a mix of rock, electronic, and experimental elements.
Lyrically, “Blackout” has been described as somewhat enigmatic, with Bowie’s lyrics often displaying a fragmented and surreal quality. The song features a pulsating rhythm and Bowie’s impassioned vocals, creating a sense of urgency and intensity.
“Heroes” is considered one of David Bowie’s groundbreaking albums, showcasing his willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles. “Blackout” exemplifies the album’s departure from traditional rock norms and its embrace of electronic and ambient influences. The song’s dynamic and chaotic nature contributes to the overall atmosphere of the “Heroes” album.
While “Blackout” may not be as well-known as some of Bowie’s other hits, it remains a favorite among fans and is appreciated for its role in the broader context of the experimental and innovative approach that Bowie took during the Berlin Trilogy era.
8. The Next Day – The Next Day
“The Next Day” is the title track from David Bowie’s twenty-fourth studio album, released in 2013. The album marked Bowie’s comeback after a decade-long hiatus from releasing new music. “The Next Day” was a highly anticipated and well-received return for Bowie, surprising fans and the music industry alike.
The song “The Next Day” reflects the album’s overall themes of mortality, reflection, and a commentary on contemporary society. Musically, it features a rock-oriented sound with strong guitar riffs and Bowie’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song addresses themes of redemption, guilt, and the idea of moving forward.
The accompanying music video for “The Next Day” stirred some controversy due to its religious imagery, featuring Bowie as a Christ-like figure, Gary Oldman as a priest, and Marion Cotillard as a woman with stigmata. The video, directed by Floria Sigismondi, sparked discussions about its symbolism and interpretation.
“The Next Day” album, including the title track, received critical acclaim for its musical quality and the surprising nature of Bowie’s return. The album demonstrated Bowie’s ability to continually evolve his sound and themes, even after decades in the music industry. “The Next Day” remains a significant chapter in Bowie’s late-career legacy.
9. Let’s Dance – Let’s Dance
“Let’s Dance” is a song by David Bowie, released as the title track from his 1983 album “Let’s Dance.” The song marked a significant shift in Bowie’s musical style, moving towards a more mainstream and commercially accessible sound, incorporating elements of dance-pop, funk, and rock.
“Let’s Dance” was a collaboration with producer Nile Rodgers of Chic, who brought a distinctive funk and dance-oriented production to the track. The song features a catchy guitar riff by Stevie Ray Vaughan, who was a prominent blues guitarist.
Lyrically, “Let’s Dance” is a celebratory and upbeat song, encouraging people to come together and enjoy the joy of dancing. The lyrics, combined with the infectious rhythm and melody, contributed to the song’s widespread appeal.
“Let’s Dance” became one of David Bowie’s most successful and recognizable songs, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The accompanying music video, featuring Bowie’s stylish and charismatic performance, further added to the song’s popularity.
The “Let’s Dance” album marked a commercial peak for Bowie in the 1980s and introduced him to a new generation of fans. While some longtime fans of Bowie’s earlier work may have initially been surprised by the shift in musical direction, “Let’s Dance” remains a classic and enduring part of Bowie’s extensive discography.
10. Sound and Vision – Low
“Sound and Vision” is a track from David Bowie’s influential and experimental album “Low,” released in 1977. This album is the first installment of Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy, recorded during his time in Berlin with collaborator Brian Eno. “Low” marked a departure from Bowie’s previous glam rock sound and embraced electronic, ambient, and avant-garde influences.
“Sound and Vision” is a standout track on the album, known for its innovative production, atmospheric instrumentals, and the distinctive use of synthesizers. The song’s lyrics are introspective, touching on themes of alienation and introspection. The chorus features the repeating line “Blue, blue, electric blue,” adding to the song’s ethereal and dreamlike quality.
The instrumental arrangement of “Sound and Vision” is notable for its use of synthesizers, electronic effects, and minimalist percussion. The song showcases Bowie’s willingness to explore new sonic territories and break away from conventional pop and rock structures.
“Sound and Vision” has been praised for its forward-thinking approach to music production and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians. It remains a key piece in Bowie’s discography, representing a pivotal moment in his artistic evolution and experimentation.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
