September 27, 1980 | David Bowie’s Scary Monsters Hits No. 1
On September 27, 1980, David Bowie entered the UK album chart at No. 1 with Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps), giving the new decade one of its earliest examples of how adventurous rock, pop and striking visual imagery could coexist.
Released in the UK on September 12, 1980, the album was produced by Bowie and longtime collaborator Tony Visconti. Recording took place at the Power Station in New York and Good Earth Studios in London. Bowie’s official archive lists the record as reaching No. 1 in Britain and No. 12 in the United States.
Its chart arrival was particularly impressive: Official Charts records Scary Monsters entering directly at No. 1 for the chart dated September 27. It remained on top for a second week and ultimately spent five weeks in the UK Top 10.
The album had already received a major boost from “Ashes to Ashes.” The single returned to Major Tom, the character Bowie introduced in “Space Oddity,” and became a UK No. 1. Its groundbreaking promotional film—co-directed by Bowie and David Mallet—used solarized imagery, unusual visual effects and Bowie’s unforgettable Pierrot costume. Bowie’s official site notes that it was then the most expensive music video ever made.
The album also produced “Fashion,” another song accompanied by an influential video. Guitarist Robert Fripp returned to work with Bowie, while Pete Townshend made a guest appearance on “Because You’re Young.”
What makes Scary Monsters particularly significant to ’80s music history is its timing. MTV was still almost a year away from launching, yet Bowie was already demonstrating how carefully constructed imagery could amplify a record and its singles.
On September 27, 1980, Scary Monsters wasn’t simply another successful Bowie album. Its No. 1 debut helped open the decade with a combination of music, fashion and video that would soon become central to ’80s pop culture.
Sources: David Bowie Official — Scary Monsters 45th Anniversary · Official Charts — Scary Monsters Chart History · David Bowie Official — Ashes to Ashes Video Focus · Rhino — September 1980: David Bowie Releases Scary Monsters.
Image Source: Wikipedia.
