David Bowie (June 28, 1975) “This isn’t soul music, this is … a going concern” – Review / Opinion Piece – UK Publication

Sarcastic opinion piece criticising the 1975 soul music trend, using David Bowie’s shift into “plastic soul” with Young Americans as a central example.

PUBLICATION:

Date: June 28, 1975

Country: United Kingdom

Section / Pages: Opinion / Review Title: This isn’t soul music, this is … a going concern

THE STORY

Andrew Dean mocks the sudden explosion of soul-influenced music in the UK charts. He specifically references Bowie’s move from glam rock into soul with “Young Americans,” along with other acts jumping on the bandwagon, arguing it’s inauthentic and commercially driven.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Published during Bowie’s Young Americans / Plastic Soul phase, this piece reflects the divided critical reaction to his stylistic change. While some praised the new direction, others (like this reviewer) saw it as a cynical cash-in. The article also mentions Northern Soul, Gloria Jones, and James Taylor, capturing the mid-70s music scene tensions.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Opinion Piece / Trend Critique Era: Young Americans / Plastic Soul Era (1975) Tone: Sarcastic, critical, cynical Photography: Striking live/action shot of David Bowie on stage Key Quote: “This isn’t soul music, this is … a going concern”

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS 

Newspaper article with bold headline, large photo of Bowie performing (in white outfit with suspenders), and lengthy opinion text. Classic 1975 UK music press layout with visible print grain.

RELATED MATERIAL

• David Bowie (June 14, 1975) “EARLY BOWIE: comic inanity” – Album Review – Melody Maker (UK)

• David Bowie (June 29, 1973) “Cracked Actor zaps Canuck Thespians” – NME (UK)

• David Bowie (June 10, 1972) “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust” Advertisement – Record Mirror (UK)

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