Another musician that I've respected and admired over the years, rather than loved, has been David Bowie.
I've spoken before of how the homophobic atmosphere of a 1970s boys' school meant glam rock was 'only for poofs' and anyone liking Bowie was suspect.
No one wants to stand out at that age. Except 'poofs', obviously.
(That was irony)
So this is, to my shame, the only Bowie CD I own, cherry picked (and a fair price paid) from a donation to the Oxfam shop - another 'this is a classic, I need to give it a proper listen' purchase.
Five Years opens, a slow song building to a glorious climax, followed by the very ordinary Soul Love and Moonage Daydream, which does give Mick Ronson the opportunity to display his not inconsiderable guitar skills. Then Starman, forever tied in with that Top Of The Pops appearance, a real 'did you see that' moment in school, the next day. It Ain't Easy and Lady Stardust don't inspire, but Star is a bit more upbeat and pleasing to the ears, and Hang On To Yourself really rocks this old man! Then the iconic Ziggy Stardust, so familiar and welcome, before the fantastic hard rocking Suffragette City. Wham bam, thank you, ma'am! After that Rock and Roll Suicide is a bit anonymous.
I get that this probably isn't Bowie's best work, but it did represent his worldwide breakthrough, so it's one of his best known. I must investigate further.
3* - Some wonderful stuff, but also some ordinary
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