Bowie Odyssey 71

In the sequel to Bowie Odyssey 70, Simon Goddard continues his immersive narrative of the world around Bowie, exploring the second year of the decade he changed pop forever.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2021
Publisher: Omnibus Press

Britain, 1971. A strange land of hot pants, moral outrage, anarchist bombs, and a sexual revolution. As Marc Bolan is hailed as the nation's teenage savior, the forgotten hope called David Bowie searches for the spark to relight his fire. He finds it in the vibrant gay clubland of London, the serene stoned fields of Glastonbury, the bustling streets of New York City, and his new rock 'n' roll allies, Lou Reed and Iggy Pop. The ignition for songs about life on Mars, cosmic messiahs, starry alter-egos, and bold fashions fit for the ultimate Seventies superstar is ignited.

The sequel to Bowie Odyssey 70, Simon Goddard continues his groundbreaking immersive narrative of the world around Bowie, through the second year of the decade he changed pop forever. From the psychedelic haze of his Berlin years to the triumphant return of Ziggy Stardust, Bowie's journey is a testament to his unparalleled creativity and resilience. Goddard's meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the era to life, capturing the essence of a time when music, fashion, and culture were in a state of constant flux.

Bowie's music, with its blend of rock, pop, and experimental elements, pushed boundaries and challenged conventions. He created iconic characters like Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, and the Thin White Duke, each with their own unique personality and style. His albums, such as "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" and "Let's Dance," became best-sellers and cemented his status as a musical legend.

But Bowie's influence went beyond his music. He was a fashion icon, experimenting with bold colors, patterns, and hairstyles that defined the Seventies aesthetic. He was also a cultural rebel, challenging societal norms and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. His performances were legendary, with his energetic stage presence and ability to connect with his audience on a profound level.

In 1971, Bowie faced personal challenges as well. He struggled with addiction and underwent a painful divorce from his first wife, Angie. But he refused to let these setbacks define him. Instead, he used them as inspiration for his music, creating some of his most introspective and personal songs. "Heroes" and "Low" are examples of his ability to turn pain into art.

Bowie's legacy continues to inspire and influence artists around the world. His music, fashion, and cultural impact are still felt today, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of his debut album, "David Bowie," it is clear that his impact on the world will be felt for generations to come.

In conclusion, the Seventies were a transformative decade for David Bowie. He emerged from the shadows of Marc Bolan to become a cultural icon, a musical legend, and a fashion icon. His music, fashion, and cultural impact are still felt today, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence artists for generations to come.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 158 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913172053