Ground Control to Major Tom: it’s the 50th anniversary of David Bowie’s iconic jam, “Space Oddity.” Inspired by 2001: A Space Odyssey, “Space Oddity” introduced us to the galactic, whimsical world of our favorite alien, Bowie. To celebrate the occasion, David Bowie’s website released a new, 2019 mix done by his longtime producer, Tony Visconti.
Besides the updated audio mix, this new music video also features never before released footage of Bowie. Featuring direction from Tim Pope and Eduaord Lock, the video includes footage of a live Bowie performances and tour visuals. Clips of Bowie playing guitar and singing come from his 50th birthday concert in 1997 at Madison Square Garden. Also included are videos created for the background visuals of his 1990 Sound & Vision tour.
As a result, the new music video is incredibly otherworldly. Besides watching multiple, monochrome Bowies inhabit a black void, we also watch Major Tom stand through a cloud of confetti. We especially love seeing Bowie in his element, strumming his guitar with a sole spotlight on him. The overall effect is very avant-garde, lively, and whimsical; just like Bowie.
Besides the anniversary of the hit song, this year is also the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. According to Entertainment Weekly, NASA got a first look at the music video in honor of their historic event, too. David Bowie’s galactic impact isn’t stopping anytime soon, though. Mattel is also honoring the iconic singer with a Ziggy Stardust Barbie doll that was released this past month.
Another music legend, Freddie Mercury, also got the remastered treatment with “Time Waits for No One” back in June. We’re especially curious to see if any other great musicians will also release new music videos and mixes this summer. Perhaps we’ll get some Prince in August?
Featured Image: David Bowie