Is Pin-Ups a good place to start with David Bowie?

Yes, Pin-Ups is recommended as a starting point for new David Bowie listeners. A kaleidoscopic homage to rock's past, blending glam aesthetics with vibrant interpretations of classic tracks. Released on October 19, 1973, Pin-Ups marked David Bowie's transition from the Ziggy Stardust persona, showcasing his eclectic taste in music. This album followed the commercial success of Aladdin Sane and was a collection of covers that reflected Bowie's influences and the sounds of the British rock scene he admired.

Pin-Ups works well if you're into upbeat tracks for lively moments, short bursts of nostalgic energy and sing-along favorites with friends.

How many songs are on Pin-Ups?

Pin-Ups has 12 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Released 53 years ago this October

Pin-Ups

David Bowie · 1973

33 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic homage to rock's past, blending glam aesthetics with vibrant interpretations of classic tracks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rosalyn Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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See Emily Play — Bowie's version maintains the haunting quality of the original while adding his distinct theatrical flair, illustrating his ability to reinterpret classic songs.
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Sorrow — The emotionally charged rendition showcases Bowie's vocal range and adds an introspective layer to this well-loved track, enhancing its melancholic essence.
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I Can’t Explain — This cover captures the raw energy of early rock while reflecting Bowie's knack for infusing fresh life into established classics.
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Everything’s Alright — Bowie's take on this track reveals his affinity for blending pop sensibilities with deeper lyrical themes, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Bowie's reinterpretations blend glam rock with classic influences, creating a distinctive yet cohesive collection.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent mid-tempo pace across its tracks, with only a few moments of variation in tempo.
Each song is reinterpreted with Bowie's glam rock style, often incorporating lush arrangements and theatrical vocal delivery.
The last three tracks feature a noticeable shift in tone, moving towards a more reflective sound that contrasts with the earlier energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

upbeat tracks for lively moments
short bursts of nostalgic energy
sing-along favorites with friends
playful reinterpretations of classics

Maybe skip if you

slow-paced introspective listening
long-form cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Unique covers album showcasing influences, but not a major entry point for new listeners.
Themes: 1960s rock revival· British glam transformation· Syd Barrett homage
Career context: Released on October 19, 1973, Pin-Ups marked David Bowie's transition from the Ziggy Stardust persona, showcasing his eclectic taste in music. This album followed the commercial success of Aladdin Sane and was a collection of covers that reflected Bowie's influences and the sounds of the British rock scene he admired.
Stylistic neighbors: Brian Eno· Roxy Music· Talking Heads