The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie · 1972
54 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock · electronic · hard rock
A vibrant tapestry of glam rock, blending theatricality with poignant storytelling and bold instrumentation.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- theatrical storytelling with vivid imagery wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts immersive experience of character exploration
- Context
- Released on June 6, 1972, 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' marked David Bowie's breakthrough album, introducing the world to his alter ego Ziggy Stardust. This concept album followed his earlier works and solidified his status as a leading figure in glam rock, showcasing his innovative approach to music and performance.
- If you like
- alternative rock, electronic, hard rock
- What next
- Aladdin Sane — Continues the glam rock energy with more complex arrangements and themes.
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars is an album by David Bowie, released in 1972. A vibrant tapestry of glam rock, blending theatricality with poignant storytelling and bold instrumentation. The album is widely regarded as a seminal work in rock history, reaching No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart and influencing countless artists across genres. Its blend of science fiction themes, gender fluidity, and rock theatrics sparked cultural conversations, making it a cornerstone of 1970s music culture. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
New to David Bowie? Read our guide on where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars sound like?
A vibrant tapestry of glam rock, blending theatricality with poignant storytelling and bold instrumentation. Rooted in alternative rock and electronic. Start with "Five Years".
Is The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars a good place to start with David Bowie?
Yes, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars is recommended as a starting point for new David Bowie listeners. A vibrant tapestry of glam rock, blending theatricality with poignant storytelling and bold instrumentation. Released on June 6, 1972, 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' marked David Bowie's breakthrough album, introducing the world to his alter ego Ziggy Stardust. This concept album followed his earlier works and solidified his status as a leading figure in glam rock, showcasing his innovative approach to music and performance.
Who is The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars for?
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars works well if you're into theatrical storytelling with vivid imagery, wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts and immersive experience of character exploration.
How many songs are on The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars?
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars has 16 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.
Tracklist
New here? Start with Five Years.
- 1 Five Years Start here 4:42
- 2 Soul Love 3:33
- 3 Moonage Daydream 4:37
- 4 Starman Standout 4:16
- 5 It Ain’t Easy 2:57
- 6 Lady Stardust 3:21
- 7 Star 2:47
- 8 Hang On to Yourself 2:38
- 9 Ziggy Stardust Standout 3:13
- 10 Suffragette City Standout 3:25
- 11 Rock ’n’ Roll Suicide 2:57
- 12 John, I’m Only Dancing 2:43
- 13 Velvet Goldmine 3:09
- 14 Sweet Head 4:14
- 15 Ziggy Stardust (original demo) 2:35
- 16 Lady Stardust (original demo) 3:35
Release Date
June 6, 1972
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
54 min 44 sec
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