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Bowiesplaining

Bowiesplaining
Author: Erik & Dan
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Does this sound familiar? You've listened to David Bowie's music, but you never really connected with it. Maybe you've tried a few Best-Of compilations. Maybe you watched Labyrinth and wanted to know more about Gareth's, um, area. And that leaves you feeling frustrated, like you're missing out on something truly special.
It's time to put an end to that disappointment and join us on the Bowiesplaining podcast, where we delve into the world of Bowie with engaging and humorous discussions that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for his music.
A Bowie enthusiast and a novice embark on a hilarious odyssey through David Bowie's catalog, with the diehard fan's encyclopedic knowledge leading to comical corrections and the rookie's goal of exploring the iconic artist's music creating a delightful clash of expertise and discovery.
It's time to put an end to that disappointment and join us on the Bowiesplaining podcast, where we delve into the world of Bowie with engaging and humorous discussions that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for his music.
A Bowie enthusiast and a novice embark on a hilarious odyssey through David Bowie's catalog, with the diehard fan's encyclopedic knowledge leading to comical corrections and the rookie's goal of exploring the iconic artist's music creating a delightful clash of expertise and discovery.
30 Episodes
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Is This Album Bowie’s Farewell? The Untold Story and Deep Dive into Scary Monsters’ Dark Brilliance
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover how regicide shaped history and altered the course of nations in ways that still echo today.
Explore the unique sound and energy of Franz Ferdinand’s music to understand what sets them apart in the indie rock scene.
Uncover the groundbreaking ways David Bowie transformed rock music and influenced generations of artists.
Analyze David Bowie’s Scary Monsters album to reveal the creative shifts that defined a pivotal moment in his career.
Trace the evolution of David Bowie’s musical style to see how he continually reinvented himself and stayed ahead of the curve.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:10 - Introduction to Regicide and Podcast Theme
00:03:27 - Revisiting Scary Monsters Side B and Initial Impressions
00:05:20 - Contextualizing Scary Monsters within Bowie's Career and Industry
00:10:51 - Deep Dive into "Scary Monsters" Opening Track and Sound Quality
00:14:39 - Cultural and Linguistic Nuances in the Album’s Japanese Vocals
00:16:20 - Cultural Significance of Dialect and Language in Music
00:19:01 - Themes of Death and Political Commentary in Lyrics
00:20:22 - David Bowie’s Artistic Evolution and Sincerity
00:22:31 - Spiral Logic and the Mask as a Metaphor in Bowie’s Work
00:28:40 - Musical Complexity and Time Signature Innovation in “Up the Hill Backwards,”
00:32:29 - Exploring Musical Tension and Lyrical Depth in the New Album
00:35:21 - Martin Luther King’s Critique of White Moderates and Its Contemporary Relevance
00:40:09 - Performative Allyship and the Complexities of Social Justice Activism
00:43:01 - Historical Context of Neoliberalism and Its Impact on Political Discourse
00:47:15 - Interpreting the Song “Scary Blasters, Super Grapes, Blue Eyes and Nothing Home,”
00:48:37 - Exploring the Psychopathic Narrative in the Song Lyrics
00:50:02 - Real-Life Horror and David Bowie’s Drug-Fueled Persona
00:52:29 - Horror Aesthetics and Cinematic Influences in the Song
00:58:06 - Bowie’s Candid Reflections on Addiction and Isolation
01:00:17 - Aesthetic Challenges and Mixed Feelings About the Song
01:03:45 - Exploring the Structure and Themes of Bowie’s Album
01:06:13 - Break and Personal Interlude Before Deep Dive into “Ashes to Ashes,”
01:08:19 - Initial Thoughts and Significance of Bowie’s “Ashes to Ashes,”
01:12:56 - Behind the Scenes of the “Ashes to Ashes” Music Video
01:18:56 - Reaction to Watching the “Ashes to Ashes” Video
01:20:30 - Exploring David Bowie’s Dual Identity Through Major Tom and David Jones
01:25:44 - Musical and Thematic Analysis of Ashes to Ashes
01:27:58 - Symbolism and Personal Reflection in Bowie’s Artistic Evolution
01:30:39 - The Complex Relationship Between David Jones and David Bowie
01:32:51 - Contrasting Songs: Fashion’s Catchy Tune vs. Ashes to Ashes’ Depth
01:35:35 - Analyzing the Unconventional Chorus and Cultural Themes in the Song
01:38:41 - Exploring “Goon Squad” and Modern Slang References
01:41:32 - The Significance of the Album in David Bowie’s Career Arc
01:43:38 - Bowie’s Personal and Creative Transformation
01:50:23 - Closing Thoughts and Sponsor Message on Representation and Creativity
01:51:49 - Building Better Content and Emphasizing Representation
01:52:01 - Expressing Strong Opinions About Key Figures
01:52:08 - Promoting Additional Content and Podcast Episodes
01:52:19 - Introducing the Upcoming Podcast "Streamers,"
01:52:22 - Signing Off With Appreciation
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Breaking Down Scary Monsters: 5 Lyrical and Musical Layers Every Bowie Fan Needs to Hear
It's like your favorite podcast went out for cigarettes and actually came back. It just took a bit.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover how the concept of regicide has shaped history and influenced the course of nations in unexpected ways.
Explore the unique sound and energy of Franz Ferdinand’s music that redefined indie rock for a new generation.
Uncover how David Bowie revolutionized rock music with his bold creativity and genre-defying style.
Dive deep into David Bowie’s Scary Monsters album to reveal the artistic evolution and hidden layers behind its iconic tracks.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:03:27 - Revisiting Scary Monsters Side B and Initial Impressions
00:05:20 - Contextualizing Scary Monsters within Bowie's Career and Industry
00:10:51 - Deep Dive into "Scary Monsters" Opening Track and Sound Quality
00:14:39 - Cultural and Linguistic Nuances in the Album’s Japanese Vocals
00:20:22 - David Bowie’s Artistic Evolution and Sincerity
00:22:31 - Spiral Logic and the Mask as a Metaphor in Bowie’s Work
00:28:40 - Musical Complexity and Time Signature Innovation in “Up the Hill Backwards,”
00:32:29 - Exploring Musical Tension and Lyrical Depth in the New Album
00:35:21 - Martin Luther King’s Critique of White Moderates and Its Contemporary Relevance
00:40:09 - Performative Allyship and the Complexities of Social Justice Activism
00:43:01 - Historical Context of Neoliberalism and Its Impact on Political Discourse
00:50:02 - Real-Life Horror and David Bowie’s Drug-Fueled Persona
00:52:29 - Horror Aesthetics and Cinematic Influences in the Song
00:58:06 - Bowie’s Candid Reflections on Addiction and Isolation
01:00:17 - Aesthetic Challenges and Mixed Feelings About the Song
01:03:45 - Exploring the Structure and Themes of Bowie’s Album
01:12:56 - Behind the Scenes of the “Ashes to Ashes” Music Video
01:20:30 - Exploring David Bowie’s Dual Identity Through Major Tom and David Jones
01:30:39 - The Complex Relationship Between David Jones and David Bowie
01:32:51 - Contrasting Songs: Fashion’s Catchy Tune vs. Ashes to Ashes’ Depth
01:38:41 - Exploring “Goon Squad” and Modern Slang References
01:41:32 - The Significance of the Album in David Bowie’s Career Arc
01:43:38 - Bowie’s Personal and Creative Transformation
01:50:23 - Closing Thoughts and Sponsor Message on Representation and Creativity
01:51:49 - Building Better Content and Emphasizing Representation
01:52:08 - Promoting Additional Content and Podcast Episodes
01:52:22 - Signing Off With Appreciation
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
From Torment to Trendsetter: Bowie’s Influence on Gary Numan, Post-Punk, and 80s Evolution
We're the podcast that went out for cigarettes but actually did come back!
Discover how David Bowie's Scary Monsters reshaped music and set new creative standards in the early 80s.
Explore the hidden ways Bowie’s style and sound fueled the rise of the post-punk movement.
Uncover the deep connection between Gary Newman’s music and Bowie’s groundbreaking influence.
Understand Bowie’s sharp criticism of imitators and what it reveals about his artistic integrity.
Trace the evolution of 80s music genres through Bowie’s innovative shifts and bold experimentation.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:07:55 - Contextualizing Bowie’s Touring Aesthetic and Mental State
00:16:43 - Bowie’s Legacy and the Challenge of Imitation in the Late 1970s
00:17:50 - The Complex Legacy of Torment and Mental Health in Music
00:24:27 - Interpreting Ashes to Ashes and Major Tom’s Symbolism
00:27:59 - Contrasting Sides of Bowie’s Album and Its Experimental Nature
00:32:51 - Bowie’s Album as a Farewell and Creative Reckoning
00:38:57 - The Four Turns of Spiral Logic Explained with Examples
00:40:49 - Metaphor of Pharmacy: Labels, Masks, and Healing Contradictions
00:44:05 - Bowie’s Scary Monsters Album as a Spiral Logic Case Study
00:49:01 - Personal Reflections on Artistic Identity and Cultural Aesthetics
00:50:49 - David Bowie’s Mime Imagery and Identity in Music
00:54:04 - Introduction to Post-Punk, New Wave, and New Romanticism
00:57:22 - Musical Lineage from Bowie and Roxy Music to Post-Punk and Goth
01:02:48 - The 1990s Convergence and Bowie’s Enduring Influence
01:06:53 - Influences and Legacy of David Bowie’s “Scary Monsters”
01:08:06 - Is “Scary Monsters” an Ending or a Bridge? Exploring Album Coherence
01:09:25 - Decoding “Teenage Wildlife” and Bowie’s Message to Imitators
01:15:03 - Bowie’s Personal Struggles and Artistic Resilience during “Station to Station”
01:23:34 - Authenticity and Personal Expression in Podcasting
01:32:26 - Podcast Production Realities and Closing Remarks
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Liner Notes
In this episode, you will be able to:
Uncover the innovative recording techniques utilized in David Bowie's Lodger album.
Explore the fascinating musical evolution of David Bowie and its impact on his diverse discography.
Delve into the profound influence of Brian Eno on David Bowie's experimental and boundary-pushing music.
Discover the unique recording methods that revolutionized rock music production.
Understand the significant impact of world music on Western artists, including David Bowie's artistic journey.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Unconventional Sound of "Lodger"
00:07:13 - Bowie's Musical Evolution
00:11:23 - Eno's Influence on "Lodger"
00:14:39 - Bowie's Anti-Brand Statement
00:16:18 - Musical Experimentation
00:17:28 - Interpreting Roles
00:19:35 - Theme of Wanderlust
00:23:16 - Diverse Fan Reactions
00:31:45 - Purposeful Unbalance
00:32:24 - Audio Troubles
00:33:32 - Embracing Accidents
00:35:24 - Unintended Uses of Toilet Paper
00:39:32 - Collaborating with Brian Eno
00:47:28 - Fantastic Voyage
00:48:44 - Analyzing Bowie's Final Episode
00:49:25 - Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences
00:50:40 - The Weight of Global Issues
00:51:52 - Coping with Shared Burdens
01:04:06 - The complexity of the lyrics
01:05:09 - Reversed chord structure in the song
01:07:18 - Cultural appropriation and mockery
01:11:26 - Analyzing the song's haiku-like lines
01:18:39 - Identity theft experience
01:21:32 - Honest Communication
01:22:04 - Data Security Concerns
01:22:50 - Empathetic Customer Service
01:23:33 - Resilience and Moving Forward
01:34:56 - Analyzing Music
01:38:08 - The chilling performance of the song
01:40:25 - The disturbing nature of the song
01:44:55 - Tonal shift and tension
01:49:29 - Bowie's forecast and transition
01:54:24 - The significance of the album
01:54:36 - Bowie's Refusal to Explain Himself
01:55:11 - Questions to Ponder While Re-listening to Lodger
01:56:35 - Reflection on Lodger and Bowie's Artistry
01:58:23 - Anticipation for Scary Monsters
02:01:59 - Closing Thoughts and Miscellaneous Tips
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Heroes Side B: Bold Experimentation and Secret Lives
In this episode, you will be able to:
Uncover the emotional depth and sonic innovation of David Bowie's "Heroes" album.
Explore the profound influence of Berlin on David Bowie's music and creative process.
Understand the pivotal role of ambient music in shaping the iconic sound of the "Heroes" album.
Delve into the cultural and emotional nuances of David Bowie's "Secret Life of Arabia" song.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introducing the Podcast
00:02:13 - Bowie and Heroes
00:10:05 - Business Proposal Email
00:12:35 - Beauty and the Beast Analysis
00:15:59 - Initial Impressions
00:17:48 - Transition from Analog to Digital
00:19:05 - Unintentional Experimentation
00:21:31 - Self-Referential Lyrics
00:27:56 - Introducing Robert Fripp
00:34:42 - Reflection on "Heroes"
00:35:17 - Emotional nuance in music
00:36:01 - Musical shifts and emotional delivery
00:46:47 - Intended emotional effect of "Sons of the Silent Age"
00:49:37 - Emotional exhaustion and transition to "Blackout"
00:53:33 - Reflection on the Album
00:55:04 - Transition to Instrumentals
00:59:08 - Analysis of "Sense of Doubt"
01:04:01 - Nostalgia and Cultural Appropriation
01:08:39 - Emotional Depth in "I Got a New Colon"
01:11:29 - The Berlin Experience in the 90s
01:12:35 - Berlin's Vibe and Architecture
01:16:35 - Decoding "Secret Life of Arabia"
01:20:48 - The Role of "Secret Life of Arabia"
01:23:16 - Transition to "Lodger"
01:28:29 - Album Analysis
01:29:13 - Listener Appreciation
01:30:13 - Podcast Dynamics
01:31:43 - Workflow Improvement
01:33:30 - Farewell and Gratitude
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
From the Shadow of the Wall: Finding Inspiration in a Divided Berlin
Want to uncover the secrets behind David Bowie's creative process and the impact of Berlin on his music? Discover the solution to gaining a deeper understanding of the legendary artist's Heroes album analysis. Get ready to dive into the intriguing world of Bowie's musical journey and the influential forces that shaped his iconic sound. Stay tuned for a mind-bending exploration of Bowie's artistry and musical evolution.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the intricate layers of David Bowie's "Heroes" album and unravel its artistic brilliance.
Uncover how the city of Berlin significantly influenced David Bowie's musical evolution and creative expression.
Discover the captivating influence of Chris Burden on the creation of "Joe the Lion" and its impact on Bowie's music.
Gain insight into the fascinating and innovative creative process behind David Bowie's iconic "Heroes" album.
Delve into the intriguing relationship between performance art and its profound influence on music, including David Bowie's work.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:03:13 - Oblique Strategies
00:06:25 - Album Vibes and Dinner
00:09:29 - History of "Heroes"
00:13:44 - Embracing Unnerving Experiments
00:15:43 - Responding to Emergency
00:20:54 - Tony de Visconti's Production Technique
00:27:10 - David Bowie's Vocal Recording Process
00:29:36 - David Bowie's Appearance
00:31:51 - Blue Apron Ad Read and Robert Fripp's Performance
00:32:36 - Planning the Episode
00:33:53 - Musical Depth and Track by Track
00:37:26 - David Bowie and Iggy Pop in Berlin
00:41:31 - Brian Eno's Artistic Antics
00:47:09 - Bowie's World Tour Adventures
00:49:12 - David Bowie's approach to substance use
00:51:32 - Bowie's voracious reading habits
00:58:23 - Mentality during the recording of "Heroes"
01:00:14 - Bowie's creative energy in Berlin
01:04:33 - Evolution of Bowie's music
01:05:58 - Dan's Approach to Information Sharing
01:06:41 - Discussion about Real Songs and Music
01:09:10 - Chris Burden's Artistic Stunts
01:15:55 - Bluechew Ad Read
01:19:04 - Tier List Ranking of Albums
01:23:57 - Ranking David Bowie Albums
01:25:32 - Album Ranking Continues
01:27:02 - Assessing Scary Monsters
01:28:34 - Final Album Rankings
01:35:34 - Closing Remarks
01:40:24 - British Man vs. American Cuisine
01:41:14 - Introduction to Meatloaf and Other British Dishes
01:42:25 - Exploring American Dishes
01:43:41 - Cornbread, Biscuits, and Gravy
01:46:11 - Waffle House Training Video
01:53:58 - Waffle House Breakfast Orders
01:59:25 - Omelet Marking System
02:03:01 - Breakfast Sandwiches and Deluxe Orders
02:05:26 - Hash Brown and Dinner Orders
02:08:03 - Waffle House Marking System
02:09:12 - Major Meat Sandwiches
02:10:53 - Special Preparation for Sandwiches
02:11:03 - Burritos and Hispanic Food
02:12:50 - Importance of the Pull Drop Mark System
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Low Lyrics
Notes go here
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore David Bowie's profound influence on the world of music and art.
Delve into a comprehensive analysis of David Bowie's groundbreaking album, "Low."
Uncover the evolution of electronic music and its impact on modern music production.
Discover the significant influence of Brian Eno on the innovative landscape of music production.
Understand the pivotal role of music videos in shaping and enhancing an artist's image and impact.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:11 - Introduction and Captain America Comparison
00:01:19 - Feeling Broken
00:11:06 - Discussion on Opinions and Controversy
00:17:55 - Expectations for Bowie's Music
00:19:31 - Initial Impressions of "Low"
00:26:35 - Repetition and Musical Interpretation
00:33:49 - Conclusion and Spoof
00:34:16 - Exploring the Music
00:35:15 - Station to Station
00:40:05 - Breaking Glass Analysis
00:48:57 - Wait Until the Crowd Cries
00:51:23 - Sound and Vision
00:52:46 - Introducing the New Approach
00:55:08 - Analyzing "Always Crashing in the Same Car"
00:58:54 - Blue Apron Experience
01:03:39 - Discussion about BDS List
01:05:34 - Snare Effect and Borat References
01:09:51 - David Bowie's Music Video
01:11:40 - Bowie's Music Videos
01:14:30 - New Career in a New Town
01:20:54 - Electronic Music and Nostalgia
01:28:25 - Initial Reaction to the Music
01:29:40 - Dislike and Reappraisal of the Album
01:31:10 - Transition and Future Expectations
01:34:45 - Ambient Music Experience
01:40:13 - Sign-off and Reference to Ziggy the Motion Picture
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Ambient Origins
In this episode, you will be able to:
Gain insights into the profound impact of election outcomes on society.
Discover the fascinating influence of Brian Eno on David Bowie's Low album.
Uncover the benefits of making adjustments to recording schedules.
Learn about the potential of utilizing AI in educational settings.
Explore the world of ambient music and the innovative creators behind it.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:10 - Introduction and Election Day Eve
00:00:58 - Changes in Recording Schedule
00:05:50 - Bowie's Instrumental Opener
00:08:29 - Introduction to Brian Eno
00:15:31 - Eno's Influence on "Low"
00:17:31 - Evolution of Sound and Collaborations
00:18:30 - Collaborative Vision and Songwriting
00:21:20 - Oblique Strategies and Conceptual Album
00:25:11 - Unique Album Concept and Recording Location
00:28:37 - Transition from Personas and Uncomfortable Creativity
00:33:00 - David Bowie's Life in LA
00:34:50 - Bowie's Realization
00:36:50 - Brian Eno's Solo Work
00:46:28 - Another Green World
00:50:02 - Ambient Music
00:53:00 - Brian Eno's Ambient Album "On Land"
00:54:21 - Eno's Influence and Ambient Music
00:57:16 - Bowie's Collaboration with Iggy Pop
01:12:29 - Philip Glass and Repetition
01:14:24 - Philip Glass and the Phasing Technique
01:16:05 - Gamelan Music and Repetition
01:18:54 - Todd Glass, Philip Glass, and Ira Glass
01:20:07 - Grocery Shopping and Celebration
01:27:39 - Revisiting Bowie's "Low" Album
01:31:14 - Predicting Enjoyment of Bowie's Album "Lodger"
01:32:22 - Election Night and Godzilla Day
01:33:21 - Predictions for the Election
01:34:14 - Local Elections and Podcast Recording
01:34:49 - Closing Remarks
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
The Thin White Duke's Descent: David Bowie's Cocaine Psychosis
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the cultural influences behind David Bowie's "Station to Station" for a deeper understanding of the album's creative inspiration.
Understand the impact of cocaine on creativity and its role in shaping the music and art of the 1970s.
Uncover the significant role of witches in 1970s culture and their influence on music, art, and societal norms.
Explore the influence of mental illness on artists and how it shaped their creative expression during the 1970s.
Discover the use of the Tibetan Book of the Dead in rituals and its impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of the 1970s.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:01:12 - "Compilation Confusion"
00:07:27 - "Transition and Experimental Phase"
00:11:08 - "Bowie in Movies"
00:15:58 - "Paranoia and Cocaine"
00:17:27 - Nick Rogue's Lack of Understanding
00:19:33 - Bowie's Attraction to Dark Themes
00:22:37 - Station to Station Recording Memory
00:25:18 - Fascination with Bizarre Stories
00:32:46 - Bowie's Paranoia and Extreme Behavior
00:34:43 - Laundry Break
00:41:28 - The Thin White Duke Persona
00:49:21 - Flirting with Fascist Imagery
00:55:31 - Coco Schwab's Influence
01:00:36 - David's Paranoid Fantasies
01:08:00 - Vivid Interpretation of Station TVC One Five
01:13:11 - Seeking Help from Wally Almlark
01:24:55 - Music and Personal Issues
01:26:39 - Tour and Personal Eligibility
01:30:43 - Financial Struggles and Recording
01:35:31 - Patreon and Apple
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Cocaine, Kabbalah, and Rock Music: Inside David Bowie's Fascinating 1976 Album
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the Impact of Cocaine on David Bowie's Music: Uncover how this influential substance shaped Bowie's creative journey and impacted his musical expressions.
Dive into the Analysis and History of David Bowie's Berlin Trilogy: Gain a deeper understanding of the context and influences that led to the creation of these iconic albums.
Discover the Influence of Kraftwerk on Rock Music: Uncover the pivotal role of Kraftwerk in shaping the evolution of rock music and Bowie's own musical style.
Trace the Origins and Influences of Industrial Music: Learn about the diverse sources that contributed to the birth and development of the industrial music genre, and how it intersected with Bowie's work.
Track the Evolution of David Bowie's Musical Style: Follow Bowie's artistic evolution through his music, and gain insights into the diverse influences that shaped his ever-changing sound.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:01:52 - Berlin Trilogy
00:10:07 - Band Dynamics
00:14:27 - Industrial Music Influence
00:23:01 - Analysis of Song Structure
00:28:38 - Exploration of David Bowie's Characters
00:32:18 - David Bowie and the Thin White Duke
00:33:13 - The Aryan Leanings and Mysticism
00:34:25 - The Thin White Duke's Search for Meaning
00:37:13 - Reflections on "Golden Years"
00:46:21 - "Word on a Wing" and Sincerity
00:52:38 - "TVC15" Analysis
01:03:11 - "Funky and Dirty" - "Young Americans"
01:05:13 - "Somebody You Want" - Interpretation of Lyrics
01:07:47 - Bowie's Performance
01:11:17 - Bon Jovi Mix-up
01:17:29 - Anticipation for Low
01:33:31 - Reacting to Unconventional Cover
01:43:13 - Ending the Episode
01:45:15 - Sweet Dream Rebirth
01:46:30 - Finding Inner Peace
01:48:12 - Embracing Change
01:50:05 - Gratitude and Positivity
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Bowie and Luther Vandross: An Unexpected Musical Bromance
Curiosity piqued? Ever felt like you're missing out on the real story? Maybe you've been told to "just listen and you'll get it," but ended up feeling left out and out of the loop. The pain of being in the dark when everyone else seems to have the inside scoop can be frustrating. Let's shine some light on the real deal together.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore how David Bowie was influenced by Philadelphia Soul, shaping his unique rock sound.
Delve into David Bowie's intriguing exploration of R&B, and how it influenced his musical evolution.
Discover the significant role that backup singers played in shaping the sounds of 1970s music, including David Bowie's work.
Trace the fascinating evolution of David Bowie's musical style, from his early work to his later iconic albums.
Uncover the impactful contributions of studio musicians on David Bowie's albums, and how they influenced his sound.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Welcome to Side B
00:05:14 - The Perverse Pleasure of Listening
00:10:23 - Cocaine Chic and Aesthetic Vibes
00:13:51 - Unpacking "Young Americans,"
00:15:53 - Young Love and American Culture
00:17:26 - Musical Theme and Evolution
00:19:36 - Shift in Style and Theme
00:23:10 - Beck's Influence and Artistic Expression
00:27:58 - Analyzing "Win" Lyrics
00:31:42 - Unfamiliar Chord Structure
00:34:42 - Unconventional Song Progression
00:37:43 - Song's Comforting Tone
00:41:15 - Comparison to Stevie Wonder's "Superstition"
00:45:38 - Influence and Collaboration
00:48:31 - "Misinterpretation of Stage Presence"
00:49:02 - "Intense Lyrics Analysis"
00:51:15 - "Unfavorable Song 'Across the Universe'"
00:59:20 - "Powerful Song 'It's Gonna Be Me'"
01:05:28 - Exploring Music and Session Musicians
01:06:49 - Working with AI and Understanding Perspectives
01:08:23 - Analyzing Bowie's Song and Themes
01:15:16 - Preview of "Station to Station" Album
01:20:45 - Song Order and Flow
01:22:36 - Karaoke Dilemma
01:24:07 - Smoking and Nostalgia
01:27:31 - Environmental Concerns
01:32:28 - Bowie's Album and Quotes
01:36:15 - Plea to Iman and Farewell
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Young Americans is an album by David Bowie. We like it. In this episode, we:
Learn the importance of pre-recording nutrition to boost energy and focus for top-notch podcasting.
Understand the significant impact of legal battles on musicians' careers and the music industry as a whole.
Master the art of transitioning between music genres successfully, just like the legends.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
00:07:18 - Financial Struggles and Transition to American Soul
00:12:29 - Unique Album in Bowie's Career
00:15:58 - Constant Reflection and Impact on Listeners
00:16:46 - The End of Bad Tony
00:17:27 - Financial Strain and Management Issues
00:19:17 - Bowie's Love for R&B and American Soul
00:20:33 - Bowie's "Plastic Soul" Album
00:23:35 - David Byrne's "Rey Momo" Album
00:32:54 - The Invention of VCR and Podcasts
00:34:29 - The Rise of YouTube
00:36:03 - Remembering Luther Vandross
00:39:51 - Humor and Irony in Conversations
00:46:13 - John Lennon's Influence
00:49:40 - Monetization and Content
00:52:17 - Recording at Electric Lady Studios
00:54:51 - Tony Basil and David Sylvian
00:56:12 - Signs of Cocaine Use
00:59:32 - Conclusion and Side B
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If you're feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of David Bowie's live album, then you are not alone! How to decipher the intricacies of his live performances? Let's dive in and uncover the magic.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Uncover the electrifying energy and raw emotion of David Bowie's live performances in our in-depth review of the David Live album.
Explore the captivating influence of Philly soul on David Bowie's music and how it shaped his artistic evolution.
Delve into the intriguing financial disputes within David Bowie's band and the impact on his live performances.
Gain insight into the fascinating recording process of David Bowie's live albums and the intricacies of capturing his dynamic stage presence.
Discover the compelling influence of cocaine on David Bowie's music and how it heightened the intensity of his live performances.
00:03:30 - Album Production and Recording
00:07:28 - Band Lineup and Performance
00:14:03 - Comparison to Benihana
00:17:10 - The Start of 1984
00:21:46 - David Bowie Cover Band
00:27:29 - Moonage Daydream and Off-the-Rails Performance
00:30:37 - The Most Mid-Seventies Thing
00:31:11 - Moon Age Daydream and Staccato Sax Part
00:32:42 - Unhinged but Delightful
00:39:32 - Diamond Dogs Tour and Song Selection
00:44:01 - Karaoke and Swear Words
00:49:32 - In-Character Commentary
01:05:24 - All the Young Dudes Analysis
01:08:23 - Cracked Actor Live
01:13:40 - Knock on Wood Surprise
01:16:07 - Ohio Players' Influence
01:20:32 - Live Performance and Song Structure
01:25:28 - Critique of "Panic in Detroit"
01:27:40 - Appreciation for Live Performance
01:35:05 - Live Performance Enhancements
01:37:21 - Live Music Experience
01:53:19 - Unconventional Cooking Ideas
01:54:09 - Rock and Roll Suicide
02:05:45 - Podcast Engagement
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Welcome to the big time, friends! This episode we delve into an album that Dan apparently mostly likes for once. Can you imagine?
Really. Imagine it. Now that you're done imagining it, listen to Side A and imagine Bowie and his pals roaming from studio to studio crafting this somewhat misunderstood masterpiece.
Shiver with anticipation as you hear the tale of inspiration, collaboration, and perspiration. Brr! Then listen to Side B to hear what we think about the actual album and its tracks.
The key moments in this episode are: 00:01:06 - Bowie's Ambition and Artistic Expression 00:18:10 - Aesthetic of the Mid-70s 00:21:04 - Bowie's Frustration 00:27:10 - Collaborations and Musical Exploration 00:36:05 - Hunger City and Teen Punks 00:48:45 - DIY Approach to Alienating Relationships 00:52:06 - The Chicken Dance 01:06:10 - Bowie's Persona and Identity 01:07:35 - Affliction by Joker Venom 01:10:45 - Transition to Side B
For a peek behind the scenes, join our group of dedicated patrons and gain access to our exclusive and sometimes-baffling slide shows. There's plenty of additional bonus content on the way as well!
Just $1 for each of us over at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BowiesplainingPodcast
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Ah, Side B. Where we actually talk about the album. And what an album this time!
Diamond Dogs is something different from Bowie's previous works. Quite different. Will Erik remember 1984 from his high school reading of the material? Will Dan cry at any point? Will Iman grant us the rights to Bowie's music so we can more easily reference what we're talking about?
You're about to find out.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:02 - Introduction to Bowie's Album "Diamond Dogs"
00:13:11 - Additional Musicians and Recording Process
00:26:17 - Setting the Stage with "Future Legend"
00:29:44 - Analyzing "Diamond Dogs"
00:35:40 - The Impact of "Sweet Thing/Candidate"
00:44:27 - Personal Responses to "Sweet Thing"
00:53:10 - The Fight Club Moment
00:54:41 - The Beatles Comparison
00:57:22 - Karaoke Song
01:04:30 - Transition to Second Side
01:06:47 - "We Are the Dead"
01:09:23 - Society's Fundamental Wrongs
01:23:43 - Chanting
01:27:37 - The 1980 Floor Show
01:33:00 - Critical Reception of Diamond Dogs
01:36:17 - Shoutouts to New Patrons
For a peek behind the scenes, join our group of dedicated patrons and gain access to our exclusive and sometimes-baffling slide shows. There's plenty of additional bonus content on the way as well!
Just $1 for each of us over at Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/BowiesplainingPodcast
This podcast is powered by Pinecast.
Who did it better: Bowie or a bunch of rockin' rockers from the Sixties? On Side A, we dig in to the influences influencing Bowie around this album. The drive to make a cover album has to come from somewhere, and in David's case, it has a lot to do with contractual obligations and a crooked manager. Let's learn about them!
Erik brings in his thoughts on the original versions of each Bowie cover. If you would like to listen to them, here's a link to his playlist on Apple Music.
https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/bowies-pin-ups-with-the-originals/pl.u-Lpq3tPLDXr
The key moments in this episode are:
00:13:37 - The impact of drugs on creativity
00:17:12 - Bowie and Mott the Hoople
00:18:10 - Bowie's Influence on Mott the Hoople
00:26:28 - Lou Reed and David Bowie
00:34:42 - Contractual Obligations
00:49:46 - Legal Responsibility After David Bowie's Death
01:13:31 - Readymades and Brian Ferry
01:22:25 - Break Time Banter
Who did it better: Bowie or a bunch of rockin' rockers from the Sixties?
Following up on our exploration of Bowie's influences on Side A, we delve into the album Pin Ups itself on Side B. Erik brings in his thoughts on the original versions of each Bowie cover. If you would like to listen to them, here's a link to his playlist on Apple Music.
https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/bowies-pin-ups-with-the-originals/pl.u-Lpq3tPLDXr
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:59 - Cocaine Talk and Sodastream
00:05:58 - Pinups Album Review
00:13:09 - Original vs. Bowie Versions
00:15:06 - Bowie's Singing Style
00:20:51 - Yardbirds' "I Wish You Would"
00:25:32 - Comparison to Pink Floyd
00:45:24 - Sorrow by The Mercies
01:10:40 - Anticipation for Diamond Dogs Album
If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of depth in your understanding of the Aladdin Sane album themes, then you are not alone!
In this episode, you will be able to:
Uncover David Bowie's profound influence on rock music and his lasting legacy.
Delve into the intricate themes of David Bowie's Aladdin Sane album for a deeper understanding of his creative depth.
Explore the role of nostalgia in the creation of music and its impact on the emotional connection with listeners.
Unravel the intriguing musical rivalry between Bowie and Mick Jagger and its influence on their respective careers.
Trace the evolution of music videos in the 1970s and their significance in shaping the visual aspect of music.
My special guest is Dan, a seasoned music enthusiast known for his in-depth exploration of classic albums. His analytical approach and vast knowledge of musical intricacies make him an ideal guest to dissect the themes within David Bowie's Aladdin Sane album. With a penchant for unraveling the complexities of music, Dan's expertise ensures a comprehensive examination of the album's themes, providing valuable insights for fans seeking a deeper understanding of Bowie's artistic vision.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Side A Recap
00:05:40 - Album Aesthetic and Themes
00:18:18 - Musical Elements and Influences
00:21:54 - Cocaine Influence and Introspection
00:34:35 - Music and Beat Analysis
00:42:32 - David Bowie and MTV
00:50:41 - "Defreeze and Fame Part One"
00:53:01 - "My Death Song and Speculation"
01:09:41 - The Sensuality of Bowie's Music
01:11:20 - Evolving Perspectives on Bowie's Career
01:24:18 - Looking Forward to Future Episodes
01:29:02 - Patreon Contribution
01:41:01 - Wrapping Up
Uncover the surprising truth about David Bowie's impact on music and culture. The story delves deep into his complex relationships, rapid weight loss, and the unexpected consequences of fame. But that's just the beginning. Find out how his personal life intertwined with his artistic journey, leading to shocking revelations. Are you ready to uncover the whole story? Stay tuned for more insights.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore the revolutionary impact of David Bowie on music and culture, uncovering his lasting influence on the industry.
Learn effective strategies for managing and navigating a successful music career, gaining insights from industry experts.
Understand the effects of fame on personal relationships within the music industry, and how to navigate these challenges.
Gain insights into the role of drugs in creative industries, and how they have impacted music and culture over the years.
Discover the evolution of podcast content creation, uncovering new trends and techniques for producing engaging and impactful episodes.
My special guest is Dan, a seasoned music aficionado, joins the podcast as a dedicated fan of David Bowie, bringing a wealth of knowledge and insight into Bowie's impact on music and culture. With a keen interest in the strategies for managing a music career and the effects of fame on personal relationships, Dan offers a fresh and engaging perspective that enriches the discussions. His expertise in the role of drugs in creative industries and the evolution of podcast content creation provides valuable insights that contribute to a deeper understanding of Bowie's complex influence on the music industry.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:07 - Initial Confusion
00:03:05 - Format Changes
00:09:16 - Fun Interlude
00:14:06 - Mike Garson's Influence
00:31:13 - 'Aladdin Sane' as a Portrait of America
00:41:58 - Bowie's Influence on Roxie Music
00:58:27 - Bowie's Chameleon Persona
01:05:04 - Tony Defries and Main Man
01:19:49 - Light-hearted Commentary
Episode Notes
Uncover the unexpected treasure trove behind Bowie's creative process and inspiration. Dive into the wild and wacky journey of Bowie's hunky dory album, featuring bizarre banter and surprising revelations. From the unconventional creative process to the quirky influences, get ready to explore the unexpected and the downright absurd. And just when you think it couldn't get any weirder, buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of oddities and oddballs.
But wait, there's one more thing that'll leave you hanging.
Are you ready to drop into the world of Bowie's unconventional genius?
In this episode, you will be able to:
Gain insight into David Bowie's early career influences and how they shaped his music.
Explore Bowie's creative process and uncover the sources of his inspiration.
Discover music production insights with Bowie, delving into his unique approach to creating soundscapes.
Uncover the technical aspects of electronic music and how Bowie incorporated them into his work.
Experience the humor and banter in the podcast, adding an entertaining element to your learning journey.