David Bowie

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“Heroes” album cover

“Heroes”

David Bowie

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen

[Chorus]
Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them, just for one day
We can be heroes, just for one day

[Verse 2]
And you, you can be mean
And I, I'll drink all the time
'Cause we're lovers, and that is a fact
Yes, we're lovers, and that is that

[Chorus]
Though nothing will keep us together
We could steal time, just for one day
We can be heroes, forever and ever
What d'you say?
[Verse 3]
I, I wish you could swim
Like the dolphins, like dolphins can swim

[Chorus]
Though nothing, nothing will keep us together
We can beat them forever and ever
Oh, we can be heroes, just for one day
[Verse 1]
I, I will be king
And you, you will be queen

[Chorus]
Though nothing will drive them away
We can be heroes, just for one day
We can be us, just for one day
[Verse 4]
I, I can remember (I remember)
Standing by the wall (By the wall)
And the guns shot above our heads (Over our heads)
And we kissed as though nothing could fall (Nothing could fall)

[Chorus]
And the shame was on the other side
Oh, we can beat them forever and ever
Then we can be heroes, just for one day

[Bridge]
We can be heroes
We can be heroes
We can be heroes, just for one day
We can be heroes
[Outro]
We are nothing, and nothing will help us
Maybe we're lying, then you better not stay
But we could be safer, just for one day
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh-oh-oh-oh, just for one day

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David Bowie is an iconic musician who revolutionized the music industry with his unique sound and creative vision. One of his most famous songs is "Heroes," which was released in 1977 as part of his album of the same name. The song has become an enduring classic that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.

About “Heroes”

“Heroes” was written by David Bowie during his time in Berlin, where he was experiencing a creative renaissance. The song was recorded in Hansa Studios, which was located near the Berlin Wall. As Bowie walked to the studio every day, he passed by the wall that separated East and West Berlin. The stark symbolism of the wall made a profound impact on Bowie, who felt a deep sense of empathy for those who were trapped on the other side.

The song is notable for its haunting melody and lyrics, which tell the story of two lovers who are separated by the wall but find a moment of redemption together. The lyrics are infused with a sense of longing and desperation, as the lovers know that their time together is limited. The emotional intensity of the song is heightened by Bowie's raw, impassioned vocals.

Brian Eno, who was a collaborator on the album, played a significant role in the creation of “Heroes.” Eno contributed a droning EMS VCS3 that provided a backdrop for the song's melody. Robert Fripp of King Crimson played guitar with pitched feedback, which added to the song's ethereal quality.

One of the most interesting aspects of “Heroes” is its backstory. According to legend, Bowie was inspired to write the song after he witnessed his friend, Tony Visconti, kissing a backing vocalist named Antonia Maaß by the Berlin Wall. Visconti was already married, and Bowie wanted to protect him from the consequences of the affair. To obscure the true meaning of the song, Bowie filled in details from his imagination, resulting in a haunting and enigmatic masterpiece that has intrigued fans for decades.

“Heroes” was not an immediate commercial success, but it has since become one of Bowie's most popular songs. The song's anthemic qualities and powerful emotional resonance have made it a staple at sporting events and awards ceremonies. It has also been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, solidifying its place as an enduring classic of modern music.

Michael Rother of the German band Neu! has claimed that Bowie was inspired by his band and the possibility of Rother playing on the album was discussed between the pair, but ultimately fell through due to miscommunication.

Despite being released in 1977, “Heroes” feels just as fresh and powerful today as it did four decades ago. The song's timeless message of love and hope in the face of adversity resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. “Heroes” is a testament to Bowie's creative genius and his enduring impact on popular culture.

Conclusion

David Bowie's "Heroes" is a song that continues to inspire and captivate people around the world. The song's emotional intensity, haunting melody, and powerful lyrics have made it a classic of modern music. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Bowie or hearing the song for the first time, “Heroes” is a work of art that is sure to leave a lasting impression.