Is Early On a good place to start with David Bowie?

Yes, Early On is recommended as a starting point for new David Bowie listeners. A vibrant collection of early rock and pop gems showcasing Bowie's nascent songwriting and eclectic influences. Released in 1991, 'Early On' compiles David Bowie's pre-fame tracks from 1964 to 1966, a time when he was still finding his musical identity. This album showcases his work before the breakthrough success of 'Space Oddity' in 1969, offering a glimpse into the formative years that shaped his innovative artistry.

Early On works well if you're into short bursts of energetic fun, nostalgic vibes for casual listening and playful rhythms for social gatherings.

How many songs are on Early On?

Early On has 17 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Early On

David Bowie · 1991

41 min · 17 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant collection of early rock and pop gems showcasing Bowie's nascent songwriting and eclectic influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Liza Jane Start here — This track features an upbeat tempo and playful lyrics that exemplify Bowie's early charm and vocal versatility. It's one of the first glimpses of his knack for combining catchy melodies with personal storytelling.
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I Pity the Fool — With its bluesy undertones and emotional delivery, this track showcases Bowie's ability to convey depth through simple arrangements. It reflects his early experimentation with genre blending, setting a foundation for future explorations.
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Can't Help Thinking About Me — This song stands out with its introspective lyrics and catchy chorus, demonstrating Bowie's early skill in crafting relatable narratives. Its blend of pop sensibility with a hint of melancholy foreshadows the complexities of his later work.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of energetic fun
nostalgic vibes for casual listening
playful rhythms for social gatherings
light-hearted tracks for road trips

Maybe skip if you

seeking long, immersive experiences
prefer complex, layered compositions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Documents Bowie's early style, valuable for understanding his musical evolution.
Themes: 1960s British pop· early songwriting struggles· youthful artistic exploration
Career context: Released in 1991, 'Early On' compiles David Bowie's pre-fame tracks from 1964 to 1966, a time when he was still finding his musical identity. This album showcases his work before the breakthrough success of 'Space Oddity' in 1969, offering a glimpse into the formative years that shaped his innovative artistry.
Stylistic neighbors: Brian Eno· Roxy Music· Talking Heads