Having sold roughly 140 million records worldwide, including 9 million in the United States and 8 million in the United Kingdom, David Bowie is regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He is consists of 26 studio albums, 21 live albums, 46 compilation albums, 10 extended plays, 128 singles, 3 soundtracks and 12 box sets.
Back at the height of the Ziggy Stardust era, David Bowie told an interviewer that he’d always felt like a vehicle for something else, even if he could never quite figure out what that something else was. For all the times he changed his getup—the glam alien of Ziggy, the moody existentialist of the late ’70s, the pop sophisticate of the ’80s, and so on—he was, in his way, remarkably consistent, a barometer of where the culture was and a glimpse of where it was going. Gender fluidity, the hybridization of rock and electronic music, the transformative power of the internet: Bowie was never there first per se, but he was always there early, a transformative figure who managed to bring challenging ideas into mainstream culture in a way that felt stylish, digestible, exciting, and most of all possible.
Born David Jones in 1947, Bowie was raised in the suburbs of London, converting to the gospel of rock ’n’ roll after hearing Little Richard. He took a minute to find his creative footing (“The Laughing Gnome”—brace yourself), but by his early twenties he’d become a major force in English pop, exploring themes of alienation (“Space Oddity”), identity (“Changes”), and futurism (“Life On Mars?”) while developing a performance style steeped in everything from mime to kabuki and avant-garde theater—a sense of visual identity that would last him the rest of his career. For three decades, Bowie rarely took more than a year between albums, exploring chilly, electronic art-rock (Low and the so-called Berlin Trilogy), pop (the early MTV hits Let’s Dance and Tonight), the noisy U-turn of the Tin Machine era, and the quasi-industrial sound of such ’90s albums as Outside and Earthling. As prominent and productive as he was, he became more enigmatic as his career went on, a noble stoic at the outer reaches of pop music.
His final two albums, 2013’s The Next Day and 2016’s Blackstar (released two days before his death), were among the grandest—and starkest—of his career. His final video, for the song “No Plan,” was released posthumously on what would have been his 70th birthday. Bowie doesn’t appear in the clip, at least not live. Instead, we see him in freeze-frame on a TV in the window of a rundown electronics store, just for a few seconds near the very end, a little fuzzy: Not a person, but an image fixed on the screen. So, if you are a die heart fan of David Bowie Albums then check out here we have list of David Bowie albums in order of release so far.
All David Bowie Albums Available on: Apple Music
List of David Bowie Studio Albums in Order of Release Date
1. David Bowie (1967)
“David Bowie,” released in 1967, marked the self-titled debut album of the iconic English musician David Bowie. This early exploration showcased the artist’s creative evolution and hinted at the immense talent that would come to define his career. The album comprised of an intriguing mix of folk, pop, and psychedelia, with Bowie’s distinctive vocal stylings shining through each track.
Songs like “Love You Till Tuesday” and “We Are Hungry Men” displayed Bowie’s lyrical prowess and his ability to captivate listeners with introspective and thought-provoking lyrics. The album’s production and musical arrangements showcased a young Bowie experimenting with different sounds, laying the groundwork for the innovative sonic landscapes he would later explore.
“David Bowie” may not have garnered widespread commercial success upon its initial release, but it provided a glimpse into the diverse artistic palette of a musical chameleon who would go on to redefine and revolutionize popular music in the years to come.
2. David Bowie (1969)
David Bowie’s self-titled album, commonly referred to as “David Bowie[g],” released in 1969, showcases the multifaceted talent and creativity of the legendary artist. This album marks a significant transition in Bowie’s career, as he explores various musical styles and experiments with his distinctive sound.
From the hauntingly beautiful “Space Oddity,” which became one of Bowie’s signature songs, to the folk-inspired tracks like “Letter to Hermione” and “Cygnet Committee,” the album is a sonic journey filled with introspection and poetic lyrics. Bowie’s emotive vocals and evocative storytelling captivate listeners, drawing them into his world of introspection and surrealism.
“David Bowie[g]” showcases the artist’s ability to blend genres effortlessly, incorporating elements of folk, psychedelic rock, and art pop. It hints at the chameleon-like nature Bowie would come to embody throughout his career. The album’s eclectic mix of songs highlights Bowie’s versatility and sets the stage for his subsequent groundbreaking releases.
3. The Man Who Sold the World (1970)
David Bowie’s album “The Man Who Sold the World,” released in 1970, is a mesmerizing and innovative work that showcases Bowie’s creative evolution and his knack for pushing musical boundaries. The album presents a shift in Bowie’s style, embracing a heavier and darker sound, driven by the electric guitar work of Mick Ronson.
“The Man Who Sold the World” is a collection of songs that delve into themes of identity, alienation, and self-exploration. The title track, with its haunting guitar riffs and enigmatic lyrics, stands as one of Bowie’s most iconic and enduring compositions. Other standout tracks like “The Width of a Circle” and “Black Country Rock” demonstrate Bowie’s lyrical prowess and his ability to craft immersive sonic landscapes.
This album marked a significant departure from Bowie’s earlier folk and pop-oriented work, laying the groundwork for the artistic reinventions that would come to define his illustrious career. “The Man Who Sold the World” remains a testament to Bowie’s visionary approach to music, solidifying his status as an influential and boundary-pushing artist.
4. Hunky Dory (1971)
Hunky Dory, released in 1971, is a remarkable album by the iconic English musician David Bowie. It stands as a testament to his artistic evolution and sets the stage for the groundbreaking albums that would follow. With its diverse range of musical styles, introspective lyrics, and Bowie’s distinct vocal delivery, Hunky Dory showcases his ability to seamlessly blend genres and push creative boundaries.
The album opens with the timeless classic “Changes,” a track that captures Bowie’s self-reflective musings on personal transformation. From there, the listener is treated to a rich tapestry of songs, including the introspective ballad “Life on Mars?” and the poetic exploration of identity in “Oh! You Pretty Things.” Hunky Dory also includes the infectious pop gem “Queen Bitch” and the experimental and haunting “The Bewlay Brothers.”
Bowie’s songwriting on Hunky Dory is both introspective and observant, offering poignant social commentary and intimate glimpses into his own psyche. The album’s musical arrangements are equally diverse, incorporating elements of glam rock, folk, and art pop. Hunky Dory is a testament to Bowie’s visionary approach to music and stands as a pivotal moment in his legendary caree.
5. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (1972)
David Bowie’s “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” is an iconic album released in 1972. It tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous alien rock star who arrives on Earth to deliver a message of hope and love in a dystopian future. The album blends elements of glam rock, art rock, and proto-punk, creating a unique and influential sound.
With its theatricality, flamboyant costumes, and infectious melodies, Ziggy Stardust became an instant sensation, catapulting Bowie to global stardom. The album is a concept piece, exploring themes of identity, fame, and self-destruction. Tracks like “Starman,” “Suffragette City,” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Suicide” showcase Bowie’s visionary songwriting and charismatic delivery.
“The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” not only solidified Bowie’s place as a musical chameleon but also left an indelible mark on the world of rock and popular culture. It remains a seminal work, celebrated for its innovative sound, boundary-pushing themes, and the enduring legacy of Ziggy Stardust.
6. Aladdin Sane (1973)
David Bowie’s iconic album “Aladdin Sane,” released in 1973, is a musical masterpiece that solidified Bowie’s status as a true innovator in the world of rock and pop. Building upon the glam rock sound of his previous album, “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,” “Aladdin Sane” pushed the boundaries even further.
The album showcases Bowie’s eclectic musicality and his ability to seamlessly blend various genres. From the energetic and anthemic rock of the title track to the haunting and introspective ballad “Lady Grinning Soul,” Bowie’s artistic range is on full display. The album’s lyrics explore themes of identity, mental instability, and societal disconnection, reflecting the turbulent times of the early 1970s.
“Aladdin Sane” stands out with its experimental and avant-garde elements, including the use of jazzy piano lines and saxophone solos. Bowie’s flamboyant persona and charismatic performances further captivated audiences, making him an iconic figure of the era.
With its groundbreaking music and provocative lyrics, “Aladdin Sane” remains a timeless classic and a testament to David Bowie’s unparalleled artistry and creative vision.
7. Pin Ups (1973)
David Bowie’s Pin Ups, released in 1973, is a mesmerizing tribute to the music that shaped Bowie’s own artistic journey. Serving as a collection of cover songs, the album showcases Bowie’s exceptional ability to reinterpret and reimagine classic tracks from the 1960s British rock scene. With his distinct musical vision, Bowie transforms these songs into something uniquely his own.
Pin Ups is a sonic kaleidoscope, blending various genres such as rock, pop, and psychedelic elements. Bowie’s magnetic vocal performances breathe new life into iconic tracks like “Sorrow,” “Friday on My Mind,” and “Where Have All the Good Times Gone?” The album exudes an irresistible energy, capturing the essence of a vibrant musical era while infusing it with Bowie’s signature charm.
Pin Ups stands as a testament to Bowie’s remarkable versatility and his knack for channeling the spirit of his influences. It showcases his profound musical dexterity and cements his status as an innovative and fearless artist. With its captivating reinterpretations, Pin Ups remains a cherished gem in Bowie’s extensive discography, a testament to his ability to transcend boundaries and leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
8. Diamond Dogs (1974)
David Bowie’s Diamond Dogs, released in 1974, is a concept album that presents a dystopian vision of a post-apocalyptic world. Inspired by George Orwell’s novel “1984,” Bowie creates a dark and atmospheric sonic landscape that combines elements of rock, glam, and soul. The album’s sound is characterized by its theatricality and grandeur, featuring powerful guitar riffs, sweeping orchestral arrangements, and Bowie’s distinctive vocal delivery.
Lyrically, Diamond Dogs explores themes of societal decay, totalitarianism, and personal alienation. The songs delve into the grim realities of a crumbling urban landscape, with Bowie assuming the alter ego of a half-human, half-dog character named Halloween Jack. Tracks like “Rebel Rebel” and the title track “Diamond Dogs” showcase Bowie’s knack for crafting catchy hooks and infectious melodies, while songs like “Sweet Thing” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll With Me” exhibit a more introspective and introspective side.
Diamond Dogs remains a pivotal album in Bowie’s discography, marking a transitional phase from his glam rock persona of the early 1970s to the more experimental and diverse musical styles he would explore in the following years.
9. Young Americans (1975)
David Bowie’s “Young Americans” album, released in 1975, marks a significant departure from his previous glam rock persona. This soul-infused record showcases Bowie’s versatility and his ability to adapt to new musical styles. With its blend of funk, R&B, and pop, “Young Americans” delves into themes of love, alienation, and the ever-changing American dream.
The album’s title track, “Young Americans,” became an instant hit, with its infectious rhythm and Bowie’s distinctive vocals. Songs like “Fame” and “Golden Years” further exemplify Bowie’s exploration of soulful sounds, featuring prominent brass sections and groovy basslines. The lyrics reflect the disillusionment and longing prevalent in 1970s America.
“Young Americans” serves as a testament to Bowie’s artistic evolution and his willingness to push boundaries. It stands as a testament to his ability to blend genres seamlessly and capture the essence of a cultural moment. The album remains a timeless classic that showcases Bowie’s musical genius and his constant reinvention as an artist.
10. Station to Station (1976)
David Bowie’s “Station to Station” album, released in 1976, stands as a remarkable and influential work in his extensive discography. The album’s sound blends elements of rock, soul, and funk, showcasing Bowie’s chameleon-like ability to seamlessly adapt to different musical styles. Spanning just six tracks, “Station to Station” is a concise yet grandiose journey.
The album’s title track opens with an eerie, hypnotic groove, setting the stage for Bowie’s enigmatic vocals and cryptic lyrics. The epic centerpiece, “Station to Station,” traverses through various sonic landscapes, incorporating funky rhythms, soaring guitar solos, and Bowie’s distinct vocal range.
Tracks like “Golden Years” and “TVC15” exhibit a more accessible pop sensibility, with infectious melodies and catchy hooks. Meanwhile, “Word on a Wing” delves into introspective territory, showcasing Bowie’s emotive vocals and introspective lyrics.
“Station to Station” showcases Bowie at his most enigmatic and experimental, with its blend of diverse musical genres and cryptic lyrical themes. It remains a testament to his artistic evolution and enduring influence on the music world.
11. Low (1977)
“Low” is a groundbreaking studio album released by English musician David Bowie in 1977. This experimental masterpiece marked a significant departure from Bowie’s previous glam rock sound and saw him embracing electronic and ambient music.
Comprised of 11 tracks, “Low” is divided into two distinct halves. The first half showcases Bowie’s fascination with avant-garde and minimalistic compositions, featuring instrumental tracks like “Speed of Life” and “Warszawa.” The second half incorporates more accessible pop elements, including the critically acclaimed single “Sound and Vision.
“Bowie’s collaboration with producer Brian Eno played a crucial role in shaping the album’s unique sonic landscape. Together, they crafted atmospheric textures, sparse instrumentation, and unconventional song structures that defied traditional conventions. “Low” pushed boundaries, blurred genre lines, and introduced a new era of experimentation for Bowie, cementing his status as an innovative and influential artist. It remains an essential listen for fans of Bowie and anyone interested in exploring the frontiers of music.
12. “Heroes” (1977)
David Bowie’s album “Heroes,” released in 1977, is a timeless masterpiece that showcases the artist’s versatility and musical innovation. It is the second installment of his influential Berlin Trilogy, recorded during his time in West Berlin. The album’s title track, “Heroes,” has become an iconic anthem, capturing the spirit of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The album explores themes of love, alienation, and self-discovery, with Bowie’s distinctive vocals and experimental instrumentation creating an atmospheric and emotive journey for the listener. From the poignant balladry of “Sons of the Silent Age” to the energetic and avant-garde “Blackout,” “Heroes” displays Bowie’s ability to push boundaries and create a unique sonic landscape. With its powerful and introspective lyrics, coupled with its groundbreaking musical arrangements, “Heroes” solidifies David Bowie’s status as an artistic visionary and remains a vital contribution to the realm of rock music.
13. Lodger (1979)
David Bowie’s 1979 album “Lodger” marked a creative departure for the legendary artist. As the final installment of his acclaimed Berlin Trilogy, it showcased Bowie’s experimental and avant-garde side. The album’s sound defied categorization, blending elements of rock, new wave, world music, and even reggae.
“Lodger” offered a sonic exploration of Bowie’s fascination with global cultures and the idea of dislocation. The lyrics reflected themes of travel, displacement, and political unrest, creating a sense of urgency and restlessness throughout the album. Tracks like “Boys Keep Swinging” and “DJ” captured Bowie’s ability to blend catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics.
Despite its initial mixed reception, “Lodger” has gained recognition as a pivotal album in Bowie’s discography. Its experimental nature and bold artistic choices continue to inspire musicians and fans alike. With its boundary-pushing sound and thought-provoking themes, “Lodger” solidified Bowie’s status as an innovative and fearless artist willing to push the boundaries of popular music.
14. Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) (1980)
David Bowie’s “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)” album, released in 1980, stands as a significant artistic milestone in his career. The album represents a captivating blend of rock, new wave, and experimental sounds, showcasing Bowie’s unparalleled ability to reinvent himself and push musical boundaries.
“Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)” presents a sonic landscape that is both haunting and infectious. The album’s title track sets the tone with its dark, atmospheric instrumentation and Bowie’s distinctive vocal delivery. The lyrics delve into themes of fear, alienation, and the complexities of modern society.
Tracks like “Fashion” and “Ashes to Ashes” became instant classics, fusing infectious melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. The album also features collaborations with accomplished musicians, including guitar virtuoso Robert Fripp.
With “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps),” Bowie crafted a powerful and innovative musical statement that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The album’s eclectic sound, introspective themes, and Bowie’s magnetic presence make it a timeless masterpiece in his extensive discography.
15. Let’s Dance (1983)
David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance” album, released in 1983, is a remarkable testament to the versatility and artistic evolution of the legendary musician. The album showcased Bowie’s transition into a more mainstream sound, incorporating elements of dance, funk, and pop while maintaining his distinctive style. The title track, “Let’s Dance,” became an instant hit, with its infectious groove and Bowie’s charismatic vocals. The album also featured other notable tracks like “Modern Love” and “China Girl,” which further demonstrated Bowie’s ability to craft catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Collaborating with renowned producer Nile Rodgers, Bowie created a polished and sophisticated sound that appealed to a wide audience. While some critics accused Bowie of pandering to commercial success, “Let’s Dance” remains an important milestone in his career and a testament to his artistic reinvention.
16. Tonight (1984)
“Tonight” is the sixteenth studio album by the iconic English musician David Bowie, released in 1984. Serving as a follow-up to his commercially successful album “Let’s Dance,” “Tonight” saw Bowie exploring a different musical direction. The album incorporated elements of pop, soul, and dance music, showcasing Bowie’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.
“Tonight” featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Tina Turner, who lent her vocals to the hit single “Tonight,” and Iggy Pop, with whom Bowie co-wrote and recorded several tracks. The album received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Bowie’s experimentation while others felt it lacked the artistic depth of his earlier work.
Despite the mixed reception, “Tonight” achieved commercial success, reaching high chart positions in various countries. While it may not be considered one of Bowie’s seminal albums, “Tonight” remains an intriguing chapter in his vast and diverse discography, showcasing his willingness to embrace new sounds and collaborations.
17. Never Let Me Down (1987)
David Bowie’s album “Never Let Me Down” released in 1987 showcases a diverse mix of musical styles and themes. Striving for a more commercial sound, Bowie collaborated with different producers resulting in a polished yet somewhat disjointed album. Tracks like the titular song “Never Let Me Down” and “Day-In Day-Out” blend catchy pop hooks with Bowie’s distinct vocals, while “Time Will Crawl” tackles social issues with a powerful, anthemic tone. The album also explores more experimental territories with tracks like “Glass Spider” and “Zeroes,” infusing elements of rock and dance. Despite its moments of brilliance, “Never Let Me Down” received mixed reviews and was criticized for its perceived lack of artistic cohesion. However, the album remains a testament to Bowie’s ability to push boundaries and adapt to changing musical landscapes.
18. Black Tie White Noise (1993)
David Bowie’s “Black Tie White Noise,” released in 1993, marked a significant turning point in the iconic artist’s career. This album saw Bowie embracing his past while simultaneously venturing into new sonic territories. Influenced by the early electronic music of the 1970s, particularly his own groundbreaking album “Low,” Bowie crafted a fusion of soul, jazz, and dance-pop that was ahead of its time.
“Black Tie White Noise” showcased Bowie’s continued ability to reinvent himself. The album’s title track, a collaboration with Al B. Sure, combined funk-infused rhythms with smooth vocals, highlighting Bowie’s knack for creating infectious melodies. The album also featured collaborations with legendary musicians such as Nile Rodgers and Mick Ronson, adding depth and texture to the sound.
Lyrically, Bowie explored themes of love, loss, and social commentary. Tracks like “Jump They Say” delved into personal struggles and mental health, while songs like “Miracle Goodnight” offered a more optimistic outlook.
Overall, “Black Tie White Noise” demonstrated Bowie’s artistic fearlessness and showcased his enduring relevance as a musical innovator. It remains a testament to his ability to adapt and push boundaries, solidifying his status as a true pioneer in popular music.
19. The Buddha of Suburbia (1993)
David Bowie’s album “The Buddha of Suburbia” was released in 1993 as the soundtrack to the BBC television adaptation of Hanif Kureishi’s novel of the same name. The album marks a departure from Bowie’s previous work, showcasing a fusion of various musical styles, including jazz, world music, and electronic elements.
“The Buddha of Suburbia” presents a rich sonic tapestry, blending atmospheric textures with introspective lyrics. Bowie’s vocals exude a sense of introspection and contemplation, capturing the essence of the novel’s themes of identity, self-discovery, and cultural clashes. The title track, “The Buddha of Suburbia,” sets the tone for the album with its hypnotic rhythm and evocative lyrics.
Throughout the album, Bowie demonstrates his musical versatility, seamlessly incorporating elements from different genres into a cohesive whole. Tracks like “Strangers When We Meet” and “Dead Against It” showcase his ability to craft introspective ballads, while songs like “South Horizon” and “Untitled No. 1” exhibit his experimental side.
“The Buddha of Suburbia” stands as a unique chapter in Bowie’s discography, a bold and introspective exploration of identity and cultural influences, demonstrating his constant willingness to push musical boundaries.
20. Outside (1995)
David Bowie’s 1995 album “Outside” marked a significant departure in his musical direction, showcasing his innovative and boundary-pushing artistry. This concept album explored the themes of artifice, violence, and fractured identities in a dystopian world. Bowie collaborated with musician Brian Eno, who brought his expertise in experimental soundscapes to the project.
“Outside” is a dark and atmospheric album that blends elements of rock, industrial, and electronic music. Bowie’s vocals range from hauntingly introspective to passionately theatrical, captivating the listener with his emotive delivery. The album’s standout tracks include the haunting opener “Leon Takes Us Outside,” the pulsating and mysterious “The Hearts Filthy Lesson,” and the brooding “Hallo Spaceboy” featuring Nine Inch Nails’ Trent Reznor.
With its intricate storytelling and atmospheric production, “Outside” remains a testament to David Bowie’s fearless creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of conventional music. It stands as a seminal work in his extensive discography, cementing his status as an iconoclastic artist unafraid to explore new sonic territories.
21. Earthling (1997)
David Bowie’s 1997 album “Earthling” marked a bold and innovative departure from his previous works. Embracing the emerging electronic and drum and bass music styles of the time, Bowie fused them with his own unique artistry to create a dynamic and boundary-pushing sonic experience. The album exudes a raw and frenetic energy, with pulsating rhythms, distorted guitars, and infectious hooks.
Lyrically, “Earthling” explores themes of technology, globalization, and societal alienation, reflecting Bowie’s astute observations of the rapidly changing world around him. Tracks like “I’m Afraid of Americans” and “Little Wonder” capture a sense of unease and disconnection, while “Seven Years in Tibet” showcases Bowie’s introspective side.
With its innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics, “Earthling” remains a testament to Bowie’s ability to adapt and push artistic boundaries. The album stands as a testament to his ability to reinvent himself and maintain relevance in an ever-evolving musical landscape.
22. Hours (1999)
David Bowie’s album “Hours” was released in 1999, showcasing the artist’s ability to continually reinvent his sound. The album captures a more introspective and reflective side of Bowie’s artistry. With its introspective lyrics and melodic tunes, “Hours” takes listeners on a journey through themes of time, mortality, and the fleeting nature of existence. Bowie’s distinct vocals and the album’s atmospheric production create a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. Standout tracks such as “Thursday’s Child,” “Survive,” and “Seven” exemplify the album’s introspective tone and offer a glimpse into Bowie’s personal struggles and contemplations. “Hours” represents a pivotal point in Bowie’s career, bridging the gap between his experimental 1990s work and the subsequent creative renaissance he experienced in the early 2000s. It is a testament to Bowie’s artistic versatility and his ability to captivate audiences with his ever-evolving musical vision.
23. Heathen (2002)
David Bowie’s album “Heathen,” released in 2002, stands as a powerful testament to the artist’s boundless creativity and ability to reinvent himself. With this album, Bowie crafted a mesmerizing collection of songs that effortlessly blend elements of rock, electronic, and art-pop. The album’s atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies create an ethereal ambiance, while Bowie’s distinctive vocals and introspective lyrics lend a sense of introspection and depth. Tracks like “Sunday” and “Slow Burn” showcase Bowie’s masterful songwriting and his ability to tap into the complexities of human existence. “Heathen” is a captivating journey that traverses themes of spirituality, mortality, and personal introspection, making it a standout addition to Bowie’s diverse discography and an essential listen for fans of his iconic musical legacy.
24. Reality (2003)
David Bowie’s album “Reality,” released in 2003, marked another artistic triumph for the legendary musician. With its eclectic mix of rock, pop, and experimental elements, “Reality” showcased Bowie’s ability to continuously reinvent his sound while staying true to his unique style. The album featured a diverse range of tracks that explored themes of love, loss, and the complexities of modern life.
From the infectious energy of the opening track “New Killer Star” to the haunting balladry of “Bring Me the Disco King,” Bowie’s distinctive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics captivated listeners. The album effortlessly blended upbeat, guitar-driven anthems like “Reality” and “Never Get Old” with introspective and introspective pieces like “Days” and “The Loneliest Guy,” creating a dynamic and cohesive musical journey.”Reality” proved once again that Bowie was a visionary artist unafraid to push boundaries and challenge conventions. With its innovative sonic landscapes and introspective themes, the album stands as a testament to Bowie’s enduring legacy and his ability to create music that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
25. The Next Day (2013)
David Bowie’s album “The Next Day,” released in 2013, marked his triumphant return to the music scene after a decade-long hiatus. With its enigmatic cover artwork that revisited the iconic “Heroes” album cover, Bowie unleashed a collection of songs that captivated both old and new fans alike.
“The Next Day” showcased Bowie’s unparalleled ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his artistic vision. The album explored themes of mortality, identity, and the passage of time with a mix of introspective ballads and energetic rock tracks. Bowie’s distinctive vocals and the rich, layered instrumentation created a sonic landscape that was both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Tracks like “Where Are We Now?” and “The Stars (Are Out Tonight)” demonstrated Bowie’s introspective side, while songs like “The Next Day” and “Dirty Boys” showcased his edgier, rock-infused sound. With its thought-provoking lyrics and masterful production, “The Next Day” solidified Bowie’s status as a musical innovator and reaffirmed his influence on generations of musicians to come.
26. Blackstar (2016)
David Bowie’s “Blackstar,” released in 2016, is a haunting and introspective masterpiece that showcases the artist’s unparalleled ability to reinvent himself. The album serves as a captivating exploration of mortality, identity, and artistic expression. With its experimental and atmospheric soundscapes, “Blackstar” pushes the boundaries of contemporary music, effortlessly blending elements of jazz, rock, and electronic genres.
The title track, “Blackstar,” is an epic and enigmatic opener that sets the tone for the entire album. Bowie’s ethereal vocals, coupled with intricate instrumentation, create an otherworldly atmosphere. The lyrics are rich with symbolism and mysticism, inviting listeners to delve into their own interpretations.
The album’s overall sound is characterized by its dark and brooding undertones, yet it remains undeniably captivating. Songs like “Lazarus” and “Dollar Days” showcase Bowie’s profound lyricism and poignant vocal delivery, while tracks such as “Sue (Or in a Season of Crime)” and “Girl Loves Me” highlight his experimentation with unconventional song structures and instrumentation.
“Blackstar” is a testament to Bowie’s artistic genius and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of music. It stands as a fitting final chapter in the illustrious career of a true legend, leaving a lasting impact on both longtime fans and newcomers to his music.
27. Toy (2021)
“Toy” is an unreleased album by the legendary English musician David Bowie. The album was recorded in 2000 and intended for release that same year, but it was ultimately shelved by Bowie’s record label, Virgin Records. Although “Toy” was never officially released, several tracks from the album surfaced online and were leaked by fans.
The album “Toy” consisted of re-recorded versions of some of Bowie’s earlier songs, including tracks from his late 1960s period. The album was intended as a revisitation and reinterpretation of his own catalog, with updated arrangements and production. Bowie worked with producer Mark Plati on the album, with whom he had collaborated on his previous studio album, “Hours…” (1999).
Despite the leaked tracks generating considerable interest among Bowie fans, Virgin Records decided not to release the album and it remains officially unreleased to this day. However, some of the songs that were recorded for “Toy” later appeared on Bowie’s subsequent albums. For example, the track “Afraid” was reworked and included on his 2002 album “Heathen.” While “Toy” may not have seen an official release, it remains a notable part of David Bowie’s discography and has become a sought-after collector’s item among fans. But Ten years later, Warner Music Group announced on 29 September 2021 that Toy would get an official release as part of the box set Brilliant Adventure (1992–2001) on 26 November 2021, through Bowie’s own ISO label and Parlophone.
How many albums does David Bowie have?
During his lifetime, English singer-songwriter David Bowie (1947–2016) released TWENTY-SIX studio albums, NINE live albums, TWO Soundtrack albums, TWENTY-SIX compilation albums, EIGHT extended plays, ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-EIGHT singles and SIX box sets. Since his passing, ONE further studio album, THIRTEEN live albums, ONE soundtrack album, ONE compilation album, FOUR extended plays and SIX box sets have been released. Bowie also released TWENTY-EIGHT video albums and SEVENTY-TWO music videos.
All David Bowie Albums in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of David Bowie Album in Order of Release Date:
1. David Bowie — 1 June 19672
2. David Bowie — 14 November 1969
3. The Man Who Sold the World — 4 November 1970
4. Hunky Dory — 17 December 1971
5. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars — 16 June 1972
6. Aladdin Sane — 13 April 1973
7. Pin Ups — 19 October 1973
8. Diamond Dogs — 24 May 1974
9. Young Americans — 7 March 1975
10. Station to Station — 23 January 1976
11. Low — 14 January 1977
12. “Heroes” — 14 October 1977
13. Lodger — 18 May 1979
14. Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) — 12 September 1980
15. Let’s Dance — 14 April 1983
16. Tonight — 1 September 1984
17. Never Let Me Down — 27 April 1987
18. Black Tie White Noise — 5 April 1993
19. The Buddha of Suburbia — 8 November 1993
20. Outside — 26 September 1995
21. Earthling — 3 February 1997
22. Hours — 4 October 1999
23. Heathen — 10 June 2002
24. Reality — 15 September 2003
25. The Next Day — 8 March 2013
26. Blackstar — 8 January 2016
27. Toy — 26 November 2021
Conclusion:
David Bowie’s discography is a stunning and diverse body of work that spans several decades. From the groundbreaking glam rock of “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” to the experimental art-pop of “Heroes” and the genre-defying “Blackstar,” Bowie consistently pushed the boundaries of music and reinvented himself. His albums serve as a testament to his unparalleled creativity and influence, solidifying his status as a legendary and visionary artist.
