Most of Bowie’s most popular songs, and some of his lesser known songs, don’t quite resemble the originals. Space Oddity has taken on several re-mixes and re-recordings. But, it stayed pretty close to the original. The song that always caught my attention when it came to do-overs is Moonage Daydream. Now, this is purely an audio experience because I’m not sure there is any video footage of Bowie performing as Arnold Corns. As such, in order to fully appreciate the scope of this transformation, you have to listen to the entire version of both to appreciate the conclusion I come to at the end of this post. Ready? For newbies, I’m quite certain you’re not expecting what you are about to hear. This is the original version of Moonage Daydream, as recorded by David Bowie performing as Arnold Corns:
Now, the version everyone’s used to:
Finished? Now, the conclusion you’ve been waiting for:
It’s amazing what Mick Ronson can do to a song, huh?
“C’mon ya mothers!” Get out mah head, Moon. I’ve been listening to TMWSTW and Ziggy versions all day today and I honestly can’t help but think of you.
The original version does tend to get stuck in my head as well. Very catch ditty think.
Not sure what to think about it making people think of a country-fried redneck tho. Will have to ponder that one over dinner with you and David.
It’s a date.