David Bowie (August 10 1974) – “Studs with Everything” Feature – New Musical Express

Aug 10, 1974

2 min read

This New Musical Express column from August 1974, written by Lisa Robinson under her regular “Americana” banner, captures the vibrant New York music scene through gossip, performance notes, and celebrity encounters. The headline “Studs with Everything” reflects Robinson’s witty, conversational style as she reports on Bowie, the Jackson Five, and other stars dominating the summer circuit.

Publication: New Musical Express Date: August 10 1974 Country: United Kingdom

The column opens with coverage of the Jackson Five’s annual Madison Square Garden concert, describing the frenzy of teenage fans and the family’s backstage celebrations — including Joe Jackson’s 46th birthday party at the Regency Hotel. Robinson paints a lively picture of the Jacksons’ glamorous entourage, complete with wives Hazel Gordy and Dee Dee Jackson, and the ever‑present “Papa Joe.”

She then shifts focus to David Bowie, noting his presence in New York and his friendship with Bette Midler. The piece hints at Bowie’s growing influence in the city’s art‑rock circles, mentioning his appearances at clubs and his connection to the emerging punk‑glam scene. Robinson’s tone is playful yet observant, blending insider gossip with cultural commentary.

Other sections touch on Bad Company’s success, Neil Young’s new record deal, and the New York Dolls’ upcoming film project. The article closes with a photograph of Bowie at the Jacksons’ Madison Square Garden show, captioned: “Aladdin New York, part 94. This is him at the Jacksons’ Madison Square Garden gig where, we hear, he did a lot of bopping.”

CONTEXT AND NOTES

By mid‑1974, Bowie was living in New York, immersed in the city’s avant‑garde music and fashion scene. His Diamond Dogs tour had recently concluded, and he was transitioning toward the soul‑influenced Young Americans era.

Lisa Robinson’s column captures this moment of transformation, when Bowie’s presence in Manhattan symbolized the merging of British glam and American pop culture. Her “Americana” series in NME was known for its breezy yet perceptive tone, offering British readers a window into the fast‑moving world of U.S. rock and celebrity life

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Coverage of the Jackson Five’s Madison Square Garden concert and Bowie’s New York appearances

Era: 1974 – Diamond Dogs / Early Soul Transition Period Tone: Informal, witty, and insider‑focused Photography: Black‑and‑white image of David Bowie at Madison Square Garden, captioned with playful commentary

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Lisa Robinson’s “Americana” column from NME
Reports on the Jackson Five, David Bowie, Bette Midler, and Bad Company
Photograph of Bowie attending the Jackson Five concert in New York

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