David Bowie – Starman

About the song

Released in 1972 as part of David Bowie’s iconic album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, “Starman” quickly became a defining anthem of the glam rock era. Bowie, already known for his avant-garde style and musical innovation, crafted a song that melds futuristic imagery with a message of hope and unity.

“Starman” tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous rock star who becomes a messianic figure for disaffected youth. Bowie’s lyrics, delivered with his trademark charisma, speak directly to listeners, urging them to embrace their individuality and look towards the stars for inspiration. The song’s soaring chorus, “There’s a starman waiting in the sky, he’d like to come and meet us, but he thinks he’d blow our minds,” encapsulates its central theme of transcending earthly limitations and embracing cosmic possibilities.

Socially, “Starman” had a profound impact, especially on youth culture and the LGBTQ+ community, by challenging conventional norms and celebrating diversity. Bowie’s androgynous persona and the song’s themes of alienation and acceptance resonated deeply during a time of social change and cultural upheaval.

Musically, “Starman” blends Bowie’s theatrical vocals with Mick Ronson’s memorable guitar riff, creating a sound that is both infectious and groundbreaking. The song’s arrangement, featuring lush instrumentation and Bowie’s distinctive falsetto, showcases his ability to merge rock, pop, and avant-garde influences into a cohesive and unforgettable track.

David Bowie‘s legacy as a visionary artist is indelibly linked to “Starman”, which remains a testament to his ability to inspire and provoke thought through music. Its enduring popularity and cultural significance make it not just a song, but a symbol of artistic freedom and exploration. Whether rediscovering it or hearing it for the first time, “Starman” continues to captivate audiences with its message of hope, individuality, and the boundless possibilities of the universe.

Video

Lyrics

Didn’t know what time it was, the lights were low
I leaned back on my radio
Some cat was layin’ down some rock ‘n’ roll
“Lotta soul, ” he said
Then the loud sound did seem to fade
Came back like a slow voice on a wave of phase
That wasn’t no DJ, that was hazy cosmic jive

There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie

I had to phone someone, so I picked on you
Hey, that’s far out, so you heard him too
Switch on the TV, we may pick him up on channel two
Look out your window, I can see his light
If we can sparkle, he may land tonight
Don’t tell your papa or he’ll get us locked up in fright

There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie

Starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie

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