A list of David Bowie’s 25 favorite records has emerged from Vanity Fair’s archives, thanks to Open Vulture.
In the 2003 interview, the late music icon told the publication that revealing his favorite albums could change his reputation.
Bowie obviously had very eclectic taste, but his list includes greats Little Richard, The Velvet Underground, and Richard Wyatt.
While cautioning that there’s “no way to do a list of my favorite albums with any rationality,” Bowie limited his picks to his vinyl stacks.
“No rules, then. I’ll just make ’em up as I go along,” he continued. “If you can possibly get your hands on any of these, I guarantee you evenings of listening pleasure, and you will encourage a new high-minded circle of friends, although one or two choices will lead some of your old pals to think you completely barmy. So, without chronology, genre, or reason, herewith, in no particular order, 25 albums that could change your reputation.”
Unfortunately some of the albums aren’t available on Spotify, but I’ve substituted these with as close a match as I can find. Enjoy!
The Last Poets — The Last Poets
Shipbuilding — Robert Wyatt
The Fabulous Little Richard — Little Richard
Music for 18 Musicians — Steve Reich
The Velvet Underground & Nico — The Velvet Underground
Tupelo Blues — John Lee Hooker
Blues, Rags and Hollers — Koerner, Ray and Glover
The Apollo Theatre Presents: In Person! The James Brown Show — James Brown
Forces of Victory — Linton Kwesi Johnson
The Red Flower of Tachai Blossoms Everywhere: Music Played on National Instruments — Various Artists
Not available on Spotify
