Quick Take

"Ziggy Stardust," "Changes," Under Pressure," "Let's Dance," "Fame," "Heroes," and of course, "Starman." These are the classic songs of David Bowie, the artist whose personas are indelibly etched in our pop consciousness alongside his music. He wrote and recorded with everyone from Iggy Pop to Freddie Mercury to John Lennon, sold 136 million albums, has one of the truly great voices, and influenced bands as wide-ranging as Nirvana and Franz Ferdinand.Paul Trynka illuminates Bowie's seemingly contradictory life and his many reinventions as an artist, offering over 300 new interviews with everyone from classmates to managers to lovers. He reveals Bowie's broad influence on the entertainment world, from movie star to modern-day icon, trend-setter to musical innovator. This book will define Bowie for years to come.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: David Bowie: Starman

Introduction

David Bowie, the legendary musician and cultural icon, has captivated audiences for decades with his innovative music, unforgettable performances, and enigmatic persona. In "David Bowie: Starman," author Paul Trynka delves into the life and career of this extraordinary artist, shedding light on his many reinventions, his impact on the entertainment world, and his enduring influence on generations of musicians. This comprehensive biography offers readers a deep understanding of Bowie's life and legacy, making it a must-read for fans and music enthusiasts alike.

About Paul Trynka

Paul Trynka, the author of "David Bowie: Starman," is a renowned music journalist and biographer. With a background in editing and publishing, Trynka brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his work. He has previously written books on Iggy Pop, Portrait of the Blues, and Denim, a history of the fabric. With his extensive research and passion for music, Trynka has earned a reputation as a reliable and insightful narrator of musical legends.

Analysis of Views

A Comprehensive Overview: Readers praise "David Bowie: Starman" for its thorough and comprehensive coverage of Bowie's life and career. The book delves into the artist's early years, his struggles to break into the music industry, his reinventions, and his impact on various genres of music. This in-depth exploration of Bowie's life provides readers with a deep understanding of his artistry and influence.
Inspiring and Motivational: Many readers find Bowie's story inspiring and motivational. His tireless work ethic, his willingness to take risks, and his determination to push boundaries are highlighted throughout the book. Bowie's journey serves as a reminder that success requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change.
A Balanced Perspective: While some readers appreciate the book's focus on Bowie's achievements, others note that it occasionally veers towards hagiography. They feel that the author's admiration for Bowie can sometimes cloud his objectivity. However, overall, the book is praised for its balance and fairness in presenting Bowie's life and career.
Engaging Writing Style: Paul Trynka's writing style is widely praised for its concise and engaging nature. The author's ability to convey complex information in a clear and accessible manner makes the book enjoyable to read. Readers appreciate the author's attention to detail and his skill in bringing Bowie's story to life.
A Celebration of Bowie's Brilliance: "David Bowie: Starman" is celebrated for its celebration of Bowie's brilliance as an artist. The book explores his innovative approach to music, his ability to reinvent himself, and his impact on popular culture. Readers appreciate the author's appreciation for Bowie's artistry and his recognition of Bowie's place as a musical icon.

Reasons for Recommendation

Thorough Exploration: The book's comprehensive coverage of Bowie's life and career makes it a valuable resource for fans and music enthusiasts alike. Readers appreciate the in-depth exploration of Bowie's artistry, his influence on various genres of music, and his impact on popular culture.
Inspirational Storytelling: Bowie's story serves as an inspiration to many readers. His determination, creativity, and willingness to embrace change are highlighted throughout the book, providing readers with a motivational narrative that resonates deeply.
Engaging Writing Style: Paul Trynka's engaging writing style makes the book an enjoyable read. Readers appreciate the author's concise and accessible prose, which makes complex information easy to understand. The book's engaging narrative keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Occasional Hagiography: Some readers feel that the book occasionally veers towards hagiography, which can detract from its objectivity. They feel that the author's admiration for Bowie can sometimes overshadow critical analysis of his life and career. However, this criticism is relatively minor compared to the overall positive reception of the book.
Limited Focus on Film Work: A few readers express disappointment that the book does not delve deeper into Bowie's film work, particularly in relation to his collaborations with other artists such as Jim Henson in "Labyrinth." They feel that this aspect of Bowie's career deserves more attention in a comprehensive biography.

Conclusion

"David Bowie: Starman" by Paul Trynka is a highly recommended biography that offers readers an in-depth exploration of David Bowie's life and career. With its comprehensive coverage, engaging writing style, and celebration of Bowie's brilliance as an artist, this book is a must-read for fans and music enthusiasts alike. While some readers express minor criticisms about occasional hagiography and limited focus on certain aspects of Bowie's career, the overall consensus is that "David Bowie: Starman" provides a compelling portrait of one of the most influential musicians of our time.