David Bowie was an English singer, songwriter, and actor widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.

Bowie’s breakthrough came in the early 1970s with his iconic album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (1972).

His music, style, and artistic vision have impacted music, fashion, and pop culture, with Bowie remembered as a true icon of innovation and creative expression.

About the Song

“Starman” by David Bowie is a classic rock song about a mysterious figure who brings hope to the world. It blends rock with sci-fi themes, showcasing Bowie’s creativity and specific voice.

“Starman” Lyrics by David Bowie

Intro

Hey, now now
Goodbye love

Verse 1

Didn’t know what time it was, the lights were low
I leaned back on my radio
Some cat was layin’ down some rock ‘n’ roll
“Lotta soul,” he said
Then the loud sound did seem to fade
Came back like a slow voice on a wave of phase
That weren’t no DJ, that was hazy cosmic jive

Chorus

There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
“Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”

Verse 2

I had to phone someone, so I picked on you
Hey, that’s far out, so you heard him too
Switch on the TV, we may pick him up on Channel Two
Look out your window, I can see his light
If we can sparkle, he may land tonight
Don’t tell your poppa or he’ll get us locked up in fright

Chorus

There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
He told me
“Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”
Starman waiting in the sky
He’d like to come and meet us
But he thinks he’d blow our minds
There’s a starman waiting in the sky
He’s told us not to blow it
‘Cause he knows it’s all worthwhile
“He told me
Let the children lose it
Let the children use it
Let all the children boogie”

Outro

La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la
La, la, la, la-la, la, la, la

Live Performances of David Bowie – Starman (Top of The Pops, 1972)

Similar Songs Like “Starman” by David Bowie

Here is a list of similar glam rock songs by David Bowie to enjoy:

• “Space Oddity”: One of Bowie’s earliest hits tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who gets lost in space. 
• “Life on Mars?”: It is a quirky and introspective song from the album Hunky Dory. It reflects on the absurdity of life and modern society. 
• “Rebel Rebel”: An energetic, anthemic rock song that celebrates individuality. It became one of Bowie’s most recognizable tracks.
•  “Changes”: This song is about personal transformation, “Changes” captures Bowie’s journey of reinvention, both artistically and personally. 
•  “Ashes to Ashes”: It is a reflective track from Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps); this song revisits the character of Major Tom from “Space Oddity.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What Inspired David Bowie to Write “Starman”?

David Bowie wrote “Starman” as a response to RCA’s request for a single. He was inspired by various sources, including Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow” and The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hanging On.”

How Does “Starman” Fit Into the Ziggy Stardust Album Concept?

“Starman” is part of the Ziggy Stardust narrative, where Ziggy Stardust receives a message from “the infinites” to write about a savior figure, the Starman, who brings hope to Earth’s youth.

Has “Starman” Appeared in Films or TV Shows?

Yes, “Starman” has appeared in films like The Martian (2015) and Lightyear (2022), showcasing its enduring influence on popular culture.