About The Song
“Changes” is a classic song by David Bowie, released in 1971 as part of his fourth studio album, “Hunky Dory.” The song is known for its catchy melody, insightful lyrics, and Bowie’s distinctive vocal delivery. It has become one of Bowie’s signature songs and a timeless anthem for personal and societal transformation.
Five Facts:
- Release Year and Album: “Changes” was released in 1971 as part of David Bowie’s album “Hunky Dory.” The album is considered one of Bowie’s masterpieces, showcasing his diverse musical influences and innovative songwriting.
- Theme of Transformation: The lyrics of “Changes” reflect Bowie’s thoughts on the inevitability of change and the challenges of staying true to oneself amid life’s fluctuations. The song’s chorus famously declares, “Turn and face the strange, ch-ch-changes.”
- Influence and Impact: “Changes” is often regarded as one of Bowie’s most iconic songs and a pivotal moment in his career. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, attesting to its enduring popularity.
- Musical Style: The song blends different musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, glam, and soul. Bowie’s ability to fuse diverse genres was a hallmark of his career and contributed to his status as a musical chameleon.
- Cultural Significance: “Changes” is not only a personal reflection on the nature of change but also captures the spirit of the early 1970s and the cultural shifts occurring during that time. Bowie’s androgynous image and artistic evolution during this period had a profound impact on the music and fashion scenes.
Video
Lyrics
I still don’t know what I was looking for
And my time was running wild
A million dead-end streets
Every time I thought I’d got it made
It seemed the taste was not so sweet
So I turned myself to face me
But I’ve never caught a glimpse
Of how the others must see the faker
I’m much too fast to take that testCh-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Don’t want to be a richer one
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Just gonna have to be a different one
Time may change me
But I can’t trace timeI watch the ripples change their size
But never leave the stream
Of warm impermanence
So the days float through my eyes
But still the days seem the same
And these children that you spit on
As they try to change their worlds
Their immune to your consultations
They’re quite aware of what they’re going throughCh-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Don’t tell them to grow up and out of it
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Where’s your shame
You’ve left us up to our necks in it
Time may change me
But you can’t trace timeStrange fascination, fascinating me
Changes are taking the pace I’m going throughCh-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Oh, look out you rock ‘n rollers
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the stranger)
Ch-ch-Changes
Pretty soon you’re gonna get a little older
Time may change me
But I can’t trace time
I said that time may change me
But I can’t trace time