David Bowie (September 13, 1980) – “The Elephant Man Cometh and Other Monstrous Tales” Cover – New Musical Express

Sep 13, 1980

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This New Musical Express issue from September 13 1980 features David Bowie on the cover with the headline “The Elephant Man Cometh and Other Monstrous Tales.” The edition includes an eight‑page interview by Angus MacKinnon, accompanied by Anton Corbijn’s stark photography, exploring Bowie’s reflections on fame, identity, and his stage role in The Elephant Man.

Publication: New Musical Express Date: September 13 1980 Country: United Kingdom

The interview, titled “The Future Isn’t What It Used to Be,” presents Bowie discussing loneliness, insecurity, and myth, while revisiting the character of Major Tom and the psychological weight of his own creations.

The spread combines Corbijn’s minimalist portraits with Bowie’s introspective commentary, revealing a transitional moment between his theatrical work and the release of Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps).

The accompanying RCA advertisement reinforces this connection, promoting the new album with the tagline “Often Copied – Never Equalled.”

CONTEXT AND NOTES

By late 1980, Bowie had completed his acclaimed Broadway run in The Elephant Man and was redefining his artistic direction.

This NME feature captures his shift from the alien personas of the 1970s toward a more human, self‑aware phase.

The interview’s tone is reflective and analytical, emblematic of Bowie’s evolving relationship with fame and creativity at the dawn of a new decade.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: David Bowie 1980 

Interview and Scary Monsters Era 

Era: 1980 – Post‑Berlin Period  The Elephant Man Stage Run Tone: Introspective and philosophical Photography: Anton Corbijn’s black‑and‑white portraits and RCA album art collage

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS - David Bowie cover portrait with “The Elephant Man Cometh” headline - Eight‑page interview exploring his career and personal themes - 

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