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David Bowie (1975) “Young Americans” – Smash Hits “Request Spot” (Lyrics Feature)

  • Writer: David Bowie
    David Bowie
  • Jul 23, 1975
  • 2 min read

Full-page fan-oriented feature in Smash Hits (or similar teen/pop magazine) titled “Request Spot” dedicated to David Bowie’s hit “Young Americans,” complete with full lyrics and a striking colour photograph.


PUBLICATION

Publication:Smash Hits (or equivalent UK pop magazine)

Date: 1975

Country: United Kingdom Section / Pages: Request Spot / Lyrics Page Title: YOUNG AMERICANS by David Bowie on RCA Records


THE STORY

The page prints the complete lyrics to “Young Americans” alongside a memorable photo of Bowie wearing red boxing gloves and a blue patterned top, captioned as a reader request. It also includes a small “Artist Spot” box with details about the single/album.


CONTEXT AND NOTES

This type of lyrics/request feature was very popular in mid-1970s teen and pop magazines, helping songs reach younger audiences. “Young Americans” was a major hit in 1975, and this spread shows how Bowie’s music crossed over into mainstream pop culture beyond the serious rock press.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Lyrics Feature / Reader Request Page

Era: Young Americans / Plastic Soul Period

Tone: Fan-friendly, accessible, colourful Photography: Iconic image of Bowie in red boxing gloves (a well-known promotional shot from the era)

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Full magazine page with large photo of Bowie, complete song lyrics, and decorative “Request Spot” layout.


RELATED MATERIAL

  • David Bowie (August 2, 1975) “Did we use him? Did we abuse him?” – New Musical Express (UK)

  • David Bowie (March 8, 1975) “Young Americans” – Album Announcement & Lennon Collaboration News – Sounds (UK)

  • David Bowie (March 29, 1975) “Young Americans” – Full-Page Album Advertisement – Melody Maker (UK)

Also see tabs at the foot of this post.


COPYRIGHT NOTICE 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.


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