It has been 50 years since David Bowie released the iconic 1973 album Aladdin Sane.
The Aladdin Sane album cover portrait is considered to be one of the most influential pop culture images of the past half-century.
But what is Aladdin Sane about?
We look at the iconic album on its anniversary.
What is Aladdin Sane about?
Aladdin Sane was the first album Bowie wrote and released from a position of stardom.
He composed most of the tracks on the road during his US tour in late 1972 and, because of this, many of the tracks were influenced by America and his perceptions of the country.
In Bowie, Loving the Alien biographer Christopher Sandford said he believes the album showed that Bowie “was simultaneously appalled and fixated by America”.
The tour also took a toll on Bowie’s mental health, which further influenced his writing; it marked the beginning of his longtime cocaine addiction.
Celebrating 50 years
The Southbank Centre will be holding an exhibition to mark 50 years since the launch of the album today, on April 6.
It has been curated by Chris Duffy, the son of photographer Brian Duffy, who worked with the late Bowie to create his highly recognisable lightning-flash portrait.
The show will run for two months and include artwork from the album, including the lightning-flash portrait, and a line-up of live music and talks.
The exhibiton is being held at the Spirit Level, at the Royal Festival Hall, which is set to explore the portrait by mapping how Bowie continuously reinvented his image throughout his career and inspired his fans to do the same.
On April 21, a variety of musicians will honour Bowie and Aladdin Sane in the Royal Festival Hall.
The Nu Civilisation Orchestra will serve as the event's host, and Bowie's whole album, including classics like The Jean Genie, Drive In Saturday, and Lady Grinning Soul, will be performed by a cast of musicians that includes Anna Calvi, Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters, Tawiah, Roxanne Tataei, and Lynks.
The DJ collective Queer House Party and the Afro-Caribbean-inspired Queer Bruk will perform two nights of dance music in honour of Bowie on April 21 and 22, in the Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer.
Ticket prices are £5 and can be purchased on the Southbank Centre website. Members can attend for free.
