On The Record: David Bowie - The Man Who Sold the World

This week at Heathen Records, we delve into one of David Bowie's most intriguing releases, "The Man Who Sold the World." Released in 1970, this album is significant not only for its music but also for its highly collectible and controversial dress cover edition, which featured Bowie in a striking man's dress, designed by fashion designer Michael Fish. This bold imagery challenged gender norms and set the tone for Bowie’s future as a cultural icon of androgyny and experimentation.

Controversial and Collectible: The dress cover, used for the UK release in 1971, quickly became one of the most controversial and talked-about album covers of its time, cementing its place in rock history. Collectors and fans seek this edition for its rarity and the bold statement it makes. The cover was replaced in other markets with more conventional artwork, making original dress cover pressings especially sought after.

Misprint on the Label: Adding to its collectibility, some original UK pressings of the album contain a label misprint where producer Tony Visconti’s name is misspelled as "Tonny Visconti." This error has turned those specific vinyl records into valuable pieces for collectors, prized for their rarity and uniqueness.

Musical Impact: Musically, "The Man Who Sold the World" is noted for its hard rock edge and thematic complexity, exploring personal and societal issues that were groundbreaking at the time. Songs like the title track "The Man Who Sold the World" and "All the Madmen" delve deep into mental illness and existential doubt, showcasing Bowie’s evolving songwriting and performance style.

At Heathen Records, "The Man Who Sold the World" with its dress cover is more than just an album; it’s a snapshot of Bowie challenging social norms and musical expectations. It remains a coveted item among Bowie enthusiasts and vinyl collectors, embodying a pivotal moment in rock history.

Discover this and other iconic albums at Heathen Records, where music meets art and culture.