David Bowie: For The Collector Early David Bowie EP (1972)

David Bowie's "For The Collector Early David Bowie" 7-inch vinyl EP, was released in the UK on October 6, 1972 as a budget reissue by a Pye-affiliated label.

This four-track EP gathered three A-sides and one B-side from his mid-1960s Pye Records singles, offering a glimpse into his pre-fame mod-pop days before the iconic “Space Oddity.” Lacking a formal title on the labels, with just “Early David Bowie” on the cover, it’s a rare snapshot of Bowie’s formative years, showcasing his raw talent and Swinging London influences.

EP Overview

Side A1: “Do Anything You Say” From Bowie’s second solo single (April 1966, Pye 7N 17079), a lively mod rocker with session musicians backing his youthful vocals. Produced by Tony Hatch, it aimed for chart-friendly pop but didn’t break through.

Side A2: “I Dig Everything” The A-side of his final Pye single (August 1966, Pye 7N 17157), a cynical ode to London’s teen scene with Hammond organ and flute accents.

Session players replaced Bowie’s band, the Buzz, under Hatch’s direction.

Side B1: “Can’t Help Thinking About Me” (David Bowie And The Lower Third) From his debut single as “David Bowie And The Lower Third” (January 1966, Pye 7N 17020), a raw, angsty track with gritty guitars. It marked his name change from Davy Jones to David Bowie.

Side B2: “I’m Not Losing Sleep” The B-side to “I Dig Everything” (August 1966), a defiant retort to success and betrayal with guiro percussion and reverbed vocals, boasting rags-to-riches bravado in a glossy mod style.

Release Details:

Label: Pye or affiliated reissue label (UK pressing).

Format: 7-inch vinyl EP, 45 RPM.

Notes: Labeled simply “Early David Bowie” on the cover, this EP compiled 1966 singles, capturing Bowie’s commercial struggles before his Deram era and eventual stardom.

Production and Context

Produced by Tony Hatch at Pye Studios, London, these tracks used session musicians to achieve radio-ready polish, sidelining Bowie’s bands like the Lower Third and the Buzz. “Do Anything You Say” and “I Dig Everything” reflect his mod-pop phase, while “Can’t Help Thinking About Me” and “I’m Not Losing Sleep” hint at the outsider persona that would define his later work. The EP was issued as Bowie’s fame grew with Ziggy Stardust, appealing to fans curious about his roots.

Legacy and Collectibility

None of these singles charted in their day, but they foreshadowed Bowie’s lyrical depth and versatility. Later reissued on CDs like I Dig Everything: The 1966 Pye Singles (2000) and revisited in his unreleased 2000 Toy sessions, these tracks hold historical weight. Original 1972 EPs with UK pressings prized for authenticity.

Stream them on Spotify to hear Bowie’s mod-era charm in crisp digital form.

This EP is a collector’s treasure, unearthing David Bowie’s gritty beginnings before his cosmic rise.

Do you have this early Bowie EP in your vinyl stash? Which track captures his ‘60s spirit best? Share in the comments!