David Bowie’s remarkable career saw a series of groundbreaking albums that redefined music, especially from the 1970s onward. His streak of innovation reached a pivotal moment with the release of 1980’s Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps), which marked the end of an era for the legendary artist until his final album, Blackstar, in 2016. Among the standout tracks from Scary Monsters is the unforgettable single ‘Ashes To Ashes,’ a song that not only showcased Bowie’s evolution but also served as a nod to his earlier work.
‘Ashes To Ashes’ is particularly notable for its connection to Bowie’s 1969 hit ‘Space Oddity,’ reintroducing the character Major Tom in a new light. However, the musical inspiration for this iconic track came from an unexpected place: the 1952 musical Hans Christian Andersen, specifically the song ‘Inchworm.’ Bowie himself expressed his fondness for the song, stating that it had a lasting impact on his songwriting.
Recording ‘Ashes To Ashes’ took place at New York’s Power Station studio, featuring a talented ensemble that included guitarist Carlos Alomar, bassist George Murray, and drummer Dennis Davis, along with pianist Roy Bittan and guitar-synth player Chuck Hammer. The session was helmed by producer Tony Visconti, who famously compared the intricacies of the track to a Swiss watch. He described the meticulous craftsmanship involved in the song’s creation, emphasizing how each element worked together seamlessly to deliver a cohesive final product.
Released in August 1980, ‘Ashes To Ashes’ became Bowie’s second No. 1 hit, following ‘Space Oddity.’ The track not only marked a significant moment in his career but also symbolized a bridge between his illustrious past and a promising future. Bowie’s ability to blend historical influences with contemporary sounds set the stage for his continued evolution as an artist.
For fans eager to delve deeper into the story behind ‘Ashes To Ashes,’ the latest issue of Classic Rock magazine offers an in-depth exploration of the song’s origins and its lasting impact on music.
