Album Review: “Young Americans” By David Bowie

Has Its Moments

David Bowie churned out some of his best records in the 1970s. He kept on experimenting and venturing into unfamiliar music territory – and while it didn’t work all the time, he did manage to keep things interesting for his fans. After all, he was always looking for ways to further his creativity, overhaul his music, and reinvent himself.

Bowie released his ninth studio album “Young Americans” on March 7, 1975. It was a departure from the glam rock style of its predecessors and rather, it leaned towards R&B and soul. He referred to the sound as “plastic soul”. It’s classic David Bowie. It may not be his greatest musical work but it’s an essential LP in his catalog. Even though it’s not his usual style, it doesn’t sound pretentious. He’s not trying to be somebody else – it’s still Bowie but his music just has a different flavor this time.

The musicianship is still top-notch but it does have some misses.

Highlights: Young Americans, Can You Hear Me?, and Fame.

Young Americans

Funky and catchy, it’s a fun and energetic opener. It immediately makes you want to listen to the rest of the LP.

Can You Hear Me?

A lovely ballad, it’s often unfairly overlooked. It does have its charm too.

Fame

It’s a strong closing track – ending the album on a high note. Bowie wrote it with Carlos Alomar and John Lennon. It was a huge hit and became Bowie’s first #1 single on the US Billboard Hot 100.