David Bowie was a famous English singer, songwriter, and actor who was known for his groundbreaking contributions to glam rock, art rock, and electronic music.
He was born on January 8, 1947, in London. His albums The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and Spiders from Mars (1972), Heroes (1977), and Let’s Dance (1983) solidified his legacy.
Popular for his ever-evolving persona and theatrical performances, Bowie remains one of the most powerful artists of the 20th century.
About the Song
Starman is one of David Bowie’s most symbolic songs, blending glam rock, pop, and theatrical flair. It tells the story of a celestial being, the “Starman,” who offers humanity a message of hope.
The song became a glam rock anthem, with its memorable riff and upbeat melody, strengthening its place as a timeless classic in Bowie’s catalog.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | April 28, 1972 |
| Album | The Singles 1969 to 1993 (Featuring His Greatest Hits) (1993) |
| Writers | David Bowie |
| Producers | David Bowie & Ken Scott |
Meaning of the Song Starman by David Bowie
Starman tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, Bowie’s alter ego, who, through the radio, brings a message of hope to Earth’s youth.
The song introduces an alien “Starman” who wants to connect with humanity, not to harm or conquer, but to inspire and uplift, especially the younger generation.
The lyrics encourage listeners to accept new possibilities, let go of fear, and celebrate life. Starman’s message is about letting the children “boogie” a call for freedom, joy, and open-mindedness.
Bowie contrasts the skepticism and close-mindedness of adults with the curiosity and acceptance of children, urging society to remain open to wonder and change.
Ultimately, Starman is a metaphor for hope, inspiration, and the changing power of music and imagination.
It reassures listeners that something extraordinary is watching over them, encouraging everyone to find optimism and unity even in uncertain times.
Complete Lyrics of Starman
Intro
Hey, now now
Goodbye love
Verse 1
Didn’t know what time it was, the lights were low
I leaned back on my radio
Some cat was layin’ down some rock ‘n’ roll
“Lotta soul,” he said
Then the loud sound did seem to fade
Came back like a slow voice on a wave of phase
That weren’t no DJ, that was hazy cosmic jive
Chorus
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
“Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”
Verse 2
I had to phone someone, so I picked on you
Hey, that’s far out, so you heard him too
Switch on the TV, we may pick him up on Channel Two
Look out your window, I can see his light
If we can sparkle, he may land tonight
Don’t tell your poppa or he’ll get us locked up in fright
Chorus
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
“Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”
Starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
“He told me
Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”
Outro
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
Similar Songs Like Starman
Here are some songs by David Bowie that share a similar futuristic, emotional, and narrative-driven style as Starman.
- Space Oddity: This track, like Starman, expresses the space research, holding the loneliness and existential questions of an astronaut.
- Life on Mars?: A song with surreal imagery and emotional depth, about life, love, and disillusionment. It shares the self-analysis and otherworldly themes of Starman.
- Ziggy Stardust: From the same album as Starman, this track introduces Ziggy Stardust, a rock star from outer space. It continues the cosmic narrative, showing fame and identity.
Similar Artists Like David Bowie
Below are the artists similar to David Bowie, known for their different styles, along with their genres and top albums:
- Brian Eno
Genre: Ambient / Electronic
Top Album: Another Green World (1975) - T. Rex
Genre: Glam Rock / Rock
Top Album: The Slider (1972) - Lou Reed
Genre: Rock / Experimental
Top Album: Transformer (1972) - Roxy Music
Genre: Art Rock / Glam Rock
Top Album: Avalon (1982)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired the Song’s Chorus?
The chorus is directly inspired by “Over the Rainbow” sung by Judy Garland, particularly in its distinctive octave jump on “There’s a star-man waiting in the sky.
Why Was Starman Written?
The song was a late addition to the album, written specifically in response to RCA’s request for a single. It replaced a Chuck Berry cover titled “Round and Round”.
What Made the Song Famous?
Bowie’s 1972 performance on the popular British TV show Top Of The Pops, where he appeared as flame-haired Ziggy Stardust in a multi-colored jumpsuit, accelerated him into stardom.
