15. Under Pressure (Hot Space by Queen, 1981)
“It’s the terror of knowing what this world is about…” Right on. It’s about some pipsqueak rapper stealing your bassline and having an even bigger hit than you did with it.
Covers:
14. This Is Not America (The Falcon and the Snowman, 1985)
From the soundtrack to a mediocre movie, David Bowie and the easy jazz band Pat Metheny Group released this wonderful ballad.
Covers:
13. Warszawa (Low, 1977)
Written with ambient artist Brian Eno, Warszawa is a long, creeping song that’s mostly instrumental and feels more like Pink Floyd than David Bowie. Bowie is the only singer on the track, with over a hundred overdubs. It shows his versatility as a composer, and it’s an amazing piece of music. My favorite version is the live on that’s on Bowie’s “Stage” album from 1978—but Philip Glass’ cover is also quite extraordinary.
Covers: Just for the bizarre factor…The Red Hot Chili Peppers!!!
Next: Bowie’s Most Covered Song!
