David Bowie's Top Album Picks
Check Out David Bowie's Fave Tunes!
We dived into an intriguing article at Vanity Fair about David Bowie's admired albums. Here are some of his top picks, along with comparable suggestions from our very own selection!
Please keep in mind that not every album might be accessible at the moment, but we've included links to the artists' pages so you can browse through our array of alternatives!
'Shipbuilding', by Robert Wyatt
This song was a favorite of Bowie's, and after a listen, it's pretty obvious why! Its heart-wrenching nature can turn even the toughest into a blubbering mess. Wyatt's version is considered the definitive one, with artists like Elvis Costello and Suede also giving their takes on it.
Check out our copy of Shipbuilding on 7" by Robert Wyatt!
Don't forget to explore Elvis Costello, Elvis Costello & The Attractions, and Suede too!
'The Madcap Laughs', by Syd Barrett
Syd Barrett, the original Pink Floyd, was highly revered by Bowie. 'Dark Globe', a track from The Madcap Laughs, caught Bowie's ear and garnered his praise for its disturbing and poignant vibe.
Check out our copy of See Emily Play, which can be found on Pink Floyd's only album under Barrett's leadership, The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn!
Also, don't miss out on Pink Floyd and Syd Barrett!
'Banana Moon', by Daevid Allen
Bowie often referred to Allen's influence on the refined layers of pop music. Allen's album showcased a sound reminiscent of Brian Ferry and the Spiders from Mars. Bowie even mentioned they ended up going their separate ways, with Allen forming the Loony Gong and Wyatt pursuing a solo career, occasionally collaborating with Roxy Music star Brian Eno.
Check out our copy of Banana Moon by Daevid Allen!
Alongside Brian Ferry, Brian Eno, Roxy Music, and Spiders From Mars, be sure to explore more of what they've got to offer!
'The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of an Onion', by The Incredible String Band
Bowie found this album captivating and praised the artwork as 'all over the place', making it a 'real eye dazzler'. He even referred to this album as a must-have for any summer festival during the '60s, and he, along with Marc Bolan from T. Rex, appreciated its unique blend of Middle Eastern and Celtic folk-mystic style.
Check out our copy of their album The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter!
Don't forget to discover more from The Incredible String Band, Marc Bolan, and T. Rex!
'The Fabulous Little Richard', by Little Richard
This nostalgic pick from Bowie was 'unusually subdued.' The album was discounted by a department store assistant named Jane Greene, who grew to be a close friend and provided Bowie with new releases during his teenage years.
Peruse our copy of Little Richard Sings by Little Richard!
'The Velvet Underground & Nico', by The Velvet Underground
Bowie once deemed The Velvet Underground as "the best band in the world," and he was introduced to their music by none other than the band's then-manager Andy Warhol.
Snag a copy of The Velvet Underground & Nico, which is a 2011 repress!
Shop David Bowie
- The song 'Shipbuilding' by Robert Wyatt, a favorite of David Bowie, can be emotionally intense, making it a popular choice among fans. Explore other artists who have covered this song, such as Elvis Costello and Suede.
- Known for combining Middle Eastern and Celtic folk-mystic styles, 'The 5000 Spirits or the Layers of an Onion' by The Incredible String Band was hailed as a must-have album for any summer festival during the '60s. Get a copy of their album 'The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter' for a taste of this unique blend.
