Welcome to Chatting Tracks: Exploring Hunky Dory's B-Side
- Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
Hello, music lovers! I'm Robbie, and welcome back to Chatting Tracks. We're thrilled to have you here as we dive into the B-side of David Bowie's iconic album, "Hunky Dory". We adore this album, and we can't wait to flip the record and explore the lighter side. Please drop us a comment with your favourite Bowie album or share if you ever had the chance to see him live.
Fill Your Heart: A Whimsical Delight
The album flips over with "Fill Your Heart", originally penned by Biff Rose and Paul Williams. Surprisingly, it's the only cover on the album. The song doesn't seem to fit, yet it blends perfectly. With its cheerful lyrics about love and optimism, it serves as a delightful contrast to the deeper tracks like "Quicksand". The orchestral work is superb, offering a taste of 1920s whimsy that Bowie effortlessly brings to life.
Sneak Peek into Andy Warhol's World
Moving on, we delve into "Andy Warhol". Interesting and a bit odd, this acoustic tribute to Warhol is both a homage and a playful jab. The track's mysterious symphonic noises and the unexpected studio banter break the musical mould, creating a unique auditory experience that intrigues and amuses.
A Nod to Musical Icons: Bob Dylan and Lou Reed
Next, we have "Song for Bob Dylan", where Bowie seemingly calls out Dylan’s waning influence while positioning himself as the new rock voice. The phrase "a voice like sand and glue" is not an insult but rather an accurate portrayal. Then there's "Queen Bitch", an energetic homage to Lou Reed and the Velvet Underground. It's packed with glam energy and swagger, hinting at Bowie's future Ziggy Stardust era.
The Bewildering Beauty of The Bewlay Brothers
We conclude our journey with "The Bewlay Brothers". This mysterious track, apparently about Bowie's relationship with his brother Terry, creates a lingering, introspective ending. It's cryptically beautiful and invites listeners to unravel the personal darkness and identity reflections within.
The Iconic Cover and Its Artistic Messaging
"Hunky Dory's" cover is a work of art, inspired by silver screen actresses like Marlene Dietrich and Greta Garbo. The androgynous pose and filtered tones hint at Bowie's glam future, perfectly mirroring the album's adventurous music. It's visually stunning and thought-provoking, capturing Bowie’s daring and innovative spirit.
Where Does Hunky Dory Rank for You?
In our quest to rank top albums, "Hunky Dory" sits high for both Andy and me, though we slightly differ in our choices. For me, it's number two, a testament to its musical genius and personal impact. What's your take? Let us know where you would rank it in your top albums.
Join the Chatting Tracks Community
We love connecting with fellow music enthusiasts. Drop us a comment on what this album means to you, or suggest which album we should explore next. Whether you're a lifelong Bowie fan or discovering him anew, your thoughts are invaluable as we continue our musical voyage. Subscribe to Chatting Tracks and join us weekly as we journey through the world's greatest albums, one track at a time. Thanks for tuning in, and remember, Chatting Tracks – Where Music Comes to Life!
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