We’re revisiting David Bowie’s ninth studio album Young Americans which arrived in 1975 and marked a departure from the signature glam rock style of his previous albums, instead showcasing the musician's growing interest in soul and R&B music.
While always artistically adventurous, David Bowie's reputation as a musical chameleon really began with Young Americans, which marked a break with the glam rock style that had made him a star. With sessions beginning at Gamble & Huff stronghold Sigma Sound in Philadelphia, the collection is steeped in funk and blue-eyed soul (or as Bowie would call it, “plastic soul”), most evident in the title track. Producer Tony Visconti was back behind the boards, and when sessions continued in New York, a new collaborator had joined the Thin White Duke: John Lennon, who can be heard on a cover of Across the Universe and Fame, which was the #1 song in America this week in 1975.
A milestone in David Bowie's career, Young Americans would soon leave its mark on a legion of soulful U.K. bands including Spandau Ballet, Simply Red and ABC.
Let’s revisit those iconic singles below!
David Bowie | ‘Young Americans’ [Live, 1983]
David Bowie | ‘Across the Universe’
David Bowie | ‘Fame’
A cinematic David Bowie documentary titled Moonage Daydream debuted in Australian theatres last week. The companion album to the film features songs spanning Bowie’s career and includes previously unheard material, unique mixes created for the film and this release along with dialogue from Bowie himself.
Pre-Order now for your chance to win a bonus double-movie pass to see the film! Click here to find out more.
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