David Bowie (Sep. 1978) NME Consumer’s Guide Part One – News Feature Chronicle

A multi‑page New Musical Express consumer guide offering a detailed, authoritative overview of David Bowie’s back catalogue as of 1978, with the first instalment focusing on the Pin Ups era. Published on September 2, 1978, the feature reflects NME’s role as a critical compass for readers navigating Bowie’s rapidly expanding and stylistically diverse discography. The bold, jagged headline “THE NME CONSUMER’S GUIDE TO DAVID BOWIE” dominates the spread, signalling a practical, opinionated resource for collectors and newcomers alike.

Written by Charles Shaar Murray and Roy Carr, the guide combines sharp critical insight with practical information, including release dates, label details, chart performance and commentary on the artistic significance of each album. Pin Ups receives particular attention as the subject of Part One, with the writers contextualising Bowie’s 1973 covers project within his broader artistic evolution. The feature blends historical perspective, discographical detail and NME’s trademark critical voice, offering readers a structured entry point into Bowie’s catalogue at a moment when he was between major creative phases.

Publication: New Musical Express (UK)

Date: September 2, 1978

Length: Four‑page feature + cover reference

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