Seeking Major Tom cover

Released 15 years ago this October

Seeking Major Tom

William Shatner · 2011

95 min · 20 tracks

A whimsical journey through space-themed classics, woven with Shatner's distinctive spoken-word delivery and dramatic flair.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Space Oddity — Shatner's rendition transforms this David Bowie classic into a theatrical monologue, emphasizing the existential themes inherent in the original while adding a new layer of drama.
  • →
    Rocket Man — In this cover, Shatner's emotive delivery mirrors the song's themes of isolation and longing, creating an engaging reinterpretation that stands out on the album.
  • →
    Bohemian Rhapsody — This version showcases Shatner's theatrical prowess, turning the iconic song into a spoken-word performance that highlights its operatic and dramatic qualities.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • whimsical exploration of space themes
  • dynamic pacing with playful shifts
  • spoken word interludes add charm
  • nostalgic nods to classic tracks
  • for curious, adventurous listeners

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward, fast-paced music
  • dislike spoken word elements

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2011, William Shatner was well-established as a cultural icon, known primarily for his role in 'Star Trek.' 'Seeking Major Tom' marked his return to music after a long hiatus, showcasing his unique interpretative style on this project of covers and originals. This album came over three decades after his previous musical endeavors, reestablishing him in the contemporary music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Nimoy· David Bowie· Tom Waits

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Major Tom (Coming Home)

    The closing lines contemplate Major Tom's return to Earth, reflecting on themes of belonging and human connection.

    This moment encapsulates a shift from isolation to reunion, underscoring the emotional weight of returning home after a journey through the unknown.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Major Tom (Coming Home) 5:17
  • 2 Space Oddity 4:54
  • 3 In a Little While 3:51
  • 4 Space Cowboy 5:24
  • 5 Space Trucking 5:07
  • 6 Rocket Man 4:39
  • 7 She Blinded Me With Science 5:49
  • 8 Walking on the Moon 2:51
  • 9 Spirit in the Sky 4:24
  • 10 Bohemian Rhapsody 5:39
  • 11 Silver Machine 4:44
  • 12 Mrs. Major Tom 5:46

Disc 2

  • 1 Empty Glass 3:14
  • 2 Lost in the Stars 3:42
  • 3 Learning to Fly 4:43
  • 4 Mr. Spaceman 2:13
  • 5 Twilight Zone 7:24
  • 6 Struggle 4:11
  • 7 Iron Man 6:31
  • 8 Planet Earth 4:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata