David Bowie (August 24, 1974) – “George Tremlett: The David Bowie Story” Feature – NME
This NME feature from August 24 1974, written by Charles Shaar Murray, reviews George Tremlett’s twin Futura biographies The David Bowie Story and The Osmonds Story. The article captures the sharp, witty tone of mid‑1970s music journalism, contrasting Bowie’s artistic depth with the pop polish of the Osmonds.
Publication: NME (New Musical Express) Date: August 24 1974 Country: United Kingdom
The column opens with Murray’s trademark humour, introducing Tremlett’s books as part of a “biography time” segment.
He dismisses The Osmonds Story as lightweight fan fodder before turning to The David Bowie Story, which he finds more compelling for its assembly of Bowie’s early career details.
Tremlett’s account traces Bowie’s development from his Deram years through his emergence in 1969, referencing his manager Ken Pitt, collaborators Marc Bolan and Tony Visconti, and the formative London scene that shaped his style.
Murray notes that Tremlett’s writing relies heavily on press sources but still succeeds in charting Bowie’s transformation from pop hopeful to visionary artist.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
By mid‑1974, Bowie had released Diamond Dogs and was transitioning from glam rock toward the soul‑infused Young Americans period.
This review reflects how critics were beginning to treat Bowie as a serious cultural figure rather than a passing pop phenomenon.
Murray’s sardonic tone typifies NME’s approach to rock commentary in the 1970s — irreverent yet informed.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS
Event: Review of George Tremlett’s The David Bowie Story
Era: 1974 – Glam Rock / Critical Reassessment Era Tone: Wry, analytical, and humorous Photography: Black‑and‑white portrait of a young man with curly hair seated casually beside the article
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
Column headed “CHARLES SHAAR MURRAY” reviewing Tremlett’s Bowie and Osmonds biographies
Photograph of a curly‑haired subject beside an advert for McGuinness Flint – C’est La Vie
Handwritten date notation “NME 24/8/74” confirming publication
All magazine scans, photographs, and original text excerpts referenced in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This Chronicle entry is a transformative, non‑commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.
Comments