"David Bowie Rainbowman: 1967-1980" by Jérôme Soligny
Book Review
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Title: David Bowie Rainbowman 1967-1980
Author: Jérôme Soligny
Publisher: Monoray
Date: September 5, 2023
Jerome Soligny's "David Bowie Rainbowman: 1967-1980" offers an intimate and extensive exploration into the enigmatic brilliance of David Bowie, focusing on his musical evolution during this chapter of his career. This landmark volume stands out as a definitive guide to Bowie's early career, weaving together the stories of those intimately involved in the creation of his music.
Covering Bowie’s career from 1967 to 1980—a period often considered his most creatively fertile—this comprehensive work was originally published in French in 2019 and translated into English in 2023. Soligny, an erudite writer and meticulous researcher, is a renowned French musician, writer, and journalist. Over two decades, he interviewed Bowie and his closest collaborators, providing detailed descriptions of Bowie's life, work, connections, inspirations, hits, and misses.
What makes this book truly exceptional is its structure. Each chapter begins with an essay by Soligny on one of Bowie’s albums from this era, followed by oral histories from those who were directly involved in its creation. This format offers a multi-faceted exploration of Bowie’s music, presenting readers with a rich tapestry of perspectives and anecdotes. Divided by album, the book combines detailed accounts of the recording process with extensive interviews, ensuring an authentic and comprehensive perspective on Bowie's creative journey.
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