David Bowie's iconic album Aladdin Sane turns 45 years old today. The record was influential and not just because of the music; certainly the music was creative and genius, but maybe even more important than that was the album's intriguing and powerful cover art. The iconic artwork illustrated that whatever was inside was going to be different, and not only was being different OK, it was something to celebrate. Bowie made us feel that it didn't matter if we were weirdos; in fact, he taught us to channel our weirdness and run with it.
Aladdin Sane was thought to have been released on April 13th, 1973 and thus anniversary festivities have occurred on that day for years, however back in February Bowie's estate revealed the seminal album was actually released on April 20th. From the posting on Bowie's website:
"Previously thought to have been issued on 13th April, 1973, new evidence has come to light that proves the release date was officially the 20th, but being Good Friday in the UK the album was 'made available' on the 19th."
To mark the important occasion, Parlophone is releasing a limited edition of Aladdin Sane on silver vinyl today. The release is available exclusively in record shops while supplies last and is NOT connected to Record Store Day, which takes place tomorrow (April 21st). Good luck obtaining a copy!
Stream Aladdin Sane in full on Spotify or below:
Published April 20th, 2018