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David Bowie (August 2, 1975) “Did we use him? Did we abuse him?” – New Musical Express (UK)

  • Writer: David Bowie
    David Bowie
  • Aug 2, 1975
  • 2 min read

A major in-depth feature and reflection piece in New Musical Express by Charles Shaar Murray questioning the music industry’s (and fans’) relationship with David Bowie, tied to the releases of Diamond Dogs and David Live.


PUBLICATION

Publication: New Musical Express (NME) Date: August 2, 1975

Country: United Kingdom

Section / Pages: Platters / Feature Title: Did we use him? Did we abuse him?


THE STORY

The article examines whether the industry and public have exploited Bowie’s talent and persona, reflecting on his rapid rise, the Diamond Dogs era, the live album David Live, and his artistic evolution. It mixes critical analysis with philosophical questions about fame and artistic consumption


CONTEXT AND NOTES

Published in the summer of 1975, this piece comes after Bowie’s Young Americans breakthrough but looks back at the glam-to-soul transition. Charles Shaar Murray’s long-form style was typical of NME’s more intellectual approach during this period, often blending admiration with critique.


FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: In-depth Career Reflection / Opinion Piece Era: Post-Diamond Dogs / Young Americans Period Tone: Thoughtful, questioning, slightly provocative

Photography: Large atmospheric photo of Bowie

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Full NME “Platters” page with prominent headline, large Bowie photograph, and extensive article text.

RELATED MATERIAL

  • David Bowie (March 8, 1975) “Young Americans” – Album Announcement & Lennon Collaboration News – Sounds (UK)

  • David Bowie (March 29, 1975) “Young Americans” – Full-Page Album Advertisement – Melody Maker (UK)

  • David Bowie (March 29, 1975) “BOWIE TO SUE OVER CONTRACT” – Disc (UK)

Also see tabs at the foot of this post.


COPYRIGHT NOTICE All magazine scans, photographs and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.


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