David Bowie: An illustrated record

by Roy Carr; Charles Shaar Murray, Charles Shaar Murray

Collectible illustrated biography of David Bowie, Book is the size and shape of a record album.

Genres: Music, Biography, Nonfiction, Photography

120 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Fishface · Rating 5 out of 5]

Page after page after page of gorgeous photos of you know who. I never get tired of this one.

[Henry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read nothing else for 3 years!

[False · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've owned this book since it came out in 1981. I was never a Bowie fan back in the day. From the sixties, it seemed he was always manipulating identities, trying to see which one would bring him fame. Later, we all learned, that was exactly what he was attempting to do. I'm finally selling the book. There are better photo portrayals of Bowie's life since this issue. The authors both wrote for the weekly music rags in England for many years. An over-sized book, photography and art of the musical chameleon.

[Kenneth · Rating 4 out of 5]

At a time when I couldn't get enough of looking at pictures of Bowie, this was the sumptuous apex of the type. Sorry I don't still have my copy. I'm afraid I may have worn it out!

[Ralph Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth it for the pictures alone, which are extraordinary and evocative, I could have done without the dismissive, sneery writing. The monochrome photos for Hunky Dory are striking.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purchased this way back when in 1981 from my local chain bookstore when it 1st came out. I still have it, worn as it is. Insightful analysis of Bowies prime period, if perhaps containing a spoonful or two of over-praise. It's a great introduction to how Bowie was perceived by music critics of the day and why his 70's work remains so influential. It is somewhat poignant now as Bowie has passed on, but if one is unfamiliar with his oeuvre this is a very good starting point.

[Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book which I purchased at the time of publication , I remember these large format books used to fall apart , which happened to mine , and my Stones book and my Abba book .