The Meaning Behind The Song: The Prettiest Star by David Bowie
Introduction
David Bowie, the legend of rock and roll, has produced remarkable works throughout his career that have left a significant impact on the world of music. One of his most celebrated songs, “The Prettiest Star,” is an exquisite piece that holds a captivating story behind it.
This article will explore the meaning behind the song “The Prettiest Star,” how it was created, and the impact it had on Bowie’s career.
Background of the Song
“The Prettiest Star” was released on March 6, 1970, by David Bowie and produced by the famous Tony Visconti. The song was Bowie’s first single with his new record label, Mercury Records, after being dropped from his previous one. It was also the first track with his former girlfriend, Angie Bowie, on backing vocals.
The song was written for Bowie’s first wife, Angela Barnett, as a gift for her birthday. Bowie wrote it while they were on holiday in Scarborough, a seaside resort town in the UK.
The song provides an insight into Bowie’s personal life. It reveals his affection and admiration for Angela, describing her as the “prettiest star” he has seen and sharing their memories of good times spent together.
The Meaning Behind The Song
As mentioned earlier, “The Prettiest Star” was a birthday gift for Angela Bowie. The song is a beautiful tribute to her, describing her as a shining star, a human representation of all that is beautiful and bright.
The lyrics describe Angela’s beauty and personality and how she brings light and joy into Bowie’s life. The song expresses Bowie’s love for her and how grateful he is for her companionship.
The song is a perfect example of how love can inspire people to create art. Bowie’s deep love for Angela motivated him to create a song that represents the love and appreciation he has for her.
The Impact of the Song on Bowie’s Career
“The Prettiest Star” marked a turning point in Bowie’s career. It was his first single with his new record label, Mercury Records, and after being dropped from his previous one, it was critical that it was a hit.
Fortunately, the song was a commercial success. It reached number nine on the UK Singles Chart, making it Bowie’s first top ten hit.
The song also marked the beginning of Bowie’s association with Tony Visconti, who produced many of his other hits, including “Space Oddity” and “Heroes.”
Moreover, the song’s success paved the way for Bowie’s subsequent albums and singles, becoming a foundation for his iconic role in the music industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What inspired David Bowie to write “The Prettiest Star”?
David Bowie wrote the song for his first wife, Angela Barnett, as a gift for her birthday. The song describes her beauty and personality and expresses Bowie’s love and admiration for her.
2. Who produced “The Prettiest Star”?
The song was produced by the famous Tony Visconti, who worked with Bowie on many of his other songs, including “Space Oddity” and “Heroes.”
3. Was “The Prettiest Star” a commercial success?
Yes. The song reached number nine on the UK Singles Chart and marked Bowie’s first top ten hit.
4. Did “The Prettiest Star” receive critical acclaim?
While the song did not receive much critical acclaim upon its release, it has since been regarded as one of Bowie’s most beautiful compositions.
5. What did “The Prettiest Star” represent in Bowie’s career?
“The Prettiest Star” marked a turning point in Bowie’s career. It was his first single with his new record label, Mercury Records, and marked the beginning of his association with Tony Visconti, who produced many of his other hits.
6. Who played backing vocals on “The Prettiest Star”?
Angie Bowie, David Bowie’s former girlfriend and wife, provided backing vocals on “The Prettiest Star.”
7. What is the story behind the song?
The song is a birthday gift from David Bowie to his first wife, Angela Barnett. It expresses his love and admiration for her.
8. What makes “The Prettiest Star” unique?
“The Prettiest Star” is unique because it provides an insight into David Bowie’s personal life. It reveals his affection and admiration for Angela and expresses his love for her.
9. How did “The Prettiest Star” impact Bowie’s subsequent work?
The song’s success paved the way for Bowie’s subsequent albums and singles, becoming a foundation for his iconic role in the music industry.
10. What style of music is “The Prettiest Star”?
The song is often described as a mix of glam rock, pop, and folk.
11. Is “The Prettiest Star” considered one of Bowie’s most beautiful compositions?
Yes. While the song did not receive much critical acclaim upon its release, it has since been regarded as one of Bowie’s most beautiful compositions.
12. What was the reaction to “The Prettiest Star” when it was first released?
While the song did not receive much critical acclaim upon its release, it was a commercial success, reaching number nine on the UK Singles Chart, making it Bowie’s first top ten hit.
