LISTEN: That time David Bowie kicked toxic masculinity by doing drag
which is also worth a read—Bowie’s “Boys Keep Swinging” is a highlight on his 13th studio album, “Lodger.” The album was in fact the last of a trilogy, with albums “Low” and “Heroes” coming before, and considered a middling commercial success compared to his previous work.
Whereas Bowie’s other albums took him to the stars, many critics felt “Lodger” was too groundbreaking and grounded in experimental pop to be appreciated at the time. “Lodger” peaked at No.
4 on the UK Albums Chart, staying for 17 weeks, and peaked at No. 20 on the US Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart, staying for 15 weeks.
A great deal of that success had to do with Bowie’s promo for the album, which included music videos and performances of “Boys Keep Swinging” as the lead single.When you’re a boy, Bowie sings, “Heaven loves ya/The clouds part for ya/Nothing stands in your way.” Life is a “pop of the cherry,” and you “get a girl” and “other boys check you out.” The lyrics hit home on many levels for many people.
