David Bowie (June 3, 1972) “Starman” / The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars – Advert Melody Maker (UK)

A striking full-page promotional advertisement in Melody Maker for David Bowie’s single “Starman” and his forthcoming album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, featuring the iconic Ziggy Stardust illustration.

PUBLICATION: Melody Maker

Date: June 3, 1972

Country: United Kingdom

Section / Pages: Advertisement / Promo Page

Title: DAVID BOWIE

THE STORY

This classic ad promotes the single “Starman” while heavily teasing the upcoming concept album and the birth of the Ziggy Stardust persona. It includes upcoming UK tour dates and the now-legendary illustration of Bowie as Ziggy with guitar.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Published just weeks before the album’s release on June 16, 1972, this advertisement was part of the massive campaign that launched Bowie into superstardom. “Starman” became his first major hit and introduced the Ziggy character to the world, marking the beginning of the glam rock explosion.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS 

Event: Major Album & Single Promotion Era: Ziggy Stardust / Glam Rock Breakthrough

Tone: Bold, theatrical, futuristic Photography / Artwork: Iconic red-and-white Ziggy Stardust illustration by George Underwood

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Full-page Melody Maker advertisement with large “DAVID BOWIE” lettering, the famous Ziggy illustration, single and album info, and listed tour dates.

RELATED MATERIAL

• David Bowie (June 2, 1979) “Lodger” – New Album Advertisement – Melody Maker (UK)

• David Bowie (June 16, 1979) “Lodger” – New Album Advertisement – New Musical Express (UK)

• David Bowie (June 10, 1978) “BOOK OF BOWIE” – Melody Maker Advertisement (UK)

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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.