David Bowie (September 19, 1972) – “Arnold Corns – Hang On To Yourself” Review – Burnham‑on‑Sea Gazette and Highbridge Express

Sep 19, 1972

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This Burnham‑on‑Sea Gazette and Highbridge Express clipping from September 19 1972 reviews the release of “Hang On To Yourself” by Arnold Corns, a band created and produced by David Bowie. The brief notice comments on the track’s sound and its connection to Bowie’s rising fame.

Publication: Burnham‑on‑Sea Gazette  and Highbridge Express Date: September 19 1972 Country: United Kingdom

The review notes that with Bowie “all the rage,” the label B and C Records issued a session he produced the previous year for Arnold Corns. Written by Bowie, “Hang On To Yourself” features a vocalist whose tone closely resembles Bowie’s own, accompanied by a thrashing beat and strumming instrumentation.

Despite Bowie’s involvement, the writer concludes that the disc “isn’t very commercial.”

The piece reflects early press reactions to Bowie’s experimental side projects before his full breakthrough with Ziggy Stardust.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Arnold Corns was Bowie’s short‑lived 1971 project, conceived as a prototype for the Ziggy Stardust persona.

The single’s re‑emergence in 1972 coincided with Bowie’s rapid ascent to stardom, prompting renewed interest in his earlier recordings.

This review captures the cautious tone of local British press toward Bowie’s avant‑pop ventures, recognizing his creative fingerprints while questioning their mainstream appeal.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Review of Arnold Corns single  “Hang On To Yourself”

Era: 1972 – Ziggy Stardust Emergence 

Period Tone: Brief and skeptical Photography: None included; text‑only  review

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS - Mention of David Bowie’s production for  Arnold Corns - Description of the song’s style and vocals - Comment on its limited commercial  potential

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