“Starman” is a song by English musician David Bowie, released on 28 April 1972 by RCA Records as the lead single of his fifth studio album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars. Co-produced by Ken Scott, Bowie recorded the song on 4 February 1972 at Trident Studios in London with his backing band known as the Spiders from Mars – comprising guitarist Mick Ronson, bassist Trevor Bolder and drummer Mick Woodmansey. The song was a late addition to the album, written as a direct response to RCA’s request for a single; it replaced the Chuck Berry cover “Round and Round” on the album.
“Starman” is a glam rock song with a soaring chorus and a memorable guitar riff. The lyrics tell the story of a messianic figure from outer space who comes to Earth to bring hope and salvation. The song is often interpreted as a metaphor for Bowie’s own career and his transformation into the Ziggy Stardust persona.
“Starman” was a commercial success, reaching number 10 on the UK Singles Chart and number 65 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become one of Bowie’s most iconic and enduring songs. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, Mott the Hoople, and Placebo.
The song has also been used in a number of films and television shows, including Gattaca, Moulin Rouge!, and The Simpsons. In 2016, it was used in a high-profile advertising campaign for the iPhone 7.
“Starman” is a classic example of Bowie’s songwriting genius. It is a song that is both catchy and meaningful, with lyrics that are both personal and universal. It is a song that has resonated with listeners for over 50 years and continues to be relevant today.
Fun fact: The song’s famous opening line, “There’s a starman waiting in the sky,” was inspired by a vision that Bowie had of a man in a spacesuit descending from the sky.