David Bowie

Lyrics

[Intro]
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl

[Verse 1]
I could escape this feeling with my China Girl
I feel a wreck without my little China Girl
I hear her heart beating loud as thunder
Saw the stars crashing

[Verse 2]
I'm a mess without my little China Girl
Wake up in the mornings, where's my little China Girl?
I hear her hearts beating loud as thunder
I saw the stars crashing down

[Chorus]
I'm feeling tragic like I'm Marlon Brando
When I look at my China Girl
I could pretend that nothing really meant too much
When I look at my China Girl

[Verse 3]
I stumble into town just like a sacred cow
Visions of swastikas in my head, plans for everyone
It's in the white of my eyes
[Bridge]
My little china girl
You shouldn't mess with me
I'll ruin everything you are
You know, I'll give you television
I'll give you eyes of blue
I'll give you a man who wants to rule the world

[Chorus]
And when I get excited
My little China Girl says
Oh baby, just you shut your mouth
She says... shh
She says... shh
She says...

[Chorus]
And when I get excited
My little China Girl says
Oh baby, just you shut your mouth
And when I get excited
My little China Girl says
Oh baby, just you shut your mouth
She says... shh
She says...
[Outro]
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl
Oh-oh-oh-oh, little China Girl

David Bowie was a music icon who had a prolific career spanning over four decades. His music was groundbreaking, innovative, and boundary-pushing, earning him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

One of David Bowie's most famous songs is "China Girl." Originally written by David Bowie and Iggy Pop while living in France, the song was included on Iggy Pop's 1977 album "The Idiot," which was co-written by Bowie. However, Bowie recorded his own version of the song for his success album "Let's Dance," which was released in 1983.

About "China Girl"

David Bowie's "China Girl" is a song that has a layered and intriguing backstory. The song was originally co-written by David Bowie and Iggy Pop while they were living together in France. At the time, they were going through what is known as their "Berlin Era," which was a period of heightened creativity and experimentation. "China Girl" was one of the songs that emerged from this period.

The song was originally recorded by Iggy Pop for his 1977 album "The Idiot," which was co-written by Bowie. The album was not a commercial success, but it did receive critical acclaim. Bowie recorded his own version of the song for his 1983 album "Let's Dance." The album was produced by Nile Rodgers, who was known for his work with Chic. Rodgers' production added a funky, upbeat sound to the song, which helped it gain commercial success.

Bowie's version of "China Girl" became a hit, reaching number two on the UK charts and number ten on the US charts. The song's popularity helped Iggy Pop gain financial stability for the first time in his career. Iggy Pop received royalties from the success of the song, as he had co-written it with Bowie.

“China Girl” opens with a catchy guitar riff and a playful vocal melody, which immediately hooks the listener. The song features a mix of uptempo, funk-influenced instrumentation and moody, introspective lyrics. The chorus is particularly memorable, with Bowie's vocals soaring over a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar lines.

The lyrics to "China Girl" are somewhat controversial, as they have been accused of being racist and degrading to Asian women. The song's chorus includes the lines, "Oh, baby, just you shut your mouth/ She says, shh." These lyrics have been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes about Asian women being subservient and submissive. However, Bowie later stated that the song was actually a critique of Western cultural imperialism and the objectification of Asian women.

Despite the controversy surrounding the lyrics, "China Girl" remains one of David Bowie's most enduring songs. Its catchy melody, memorable chorus, and funky instrumentation helped it become a staple of classic rock radio. The song's backstory only adds to its appeal, as it represents a pivotal moment in Bowie's career and helped his friend and collaborator Iggy Pop gain financial stability.

Conclusion

"China Girl" is a song that showcases David Bowie's prodigious talent as a songwriter and musician. Its catchy melody and funky instrumentation helped it become a hit, while its layered lyrics and intriguing backstory have ensured its enduring appeal. The song is an important part of Bowie's legacy, both as a musician and as a cultural icon.

• Release Date: April 14, 1983
• Artist: David Bowie