David Bowie

Let's Dance

First released1983

Let's Dance was recorded primarily at the Power Station in New York City and at the Hit Factory, also in New York, during 1982. The album was produced by Nile Rodgers of Chic, whose production style emphasized accessible pop sensibilities and tight, groove-oriented arrangements that marked a significant departure from Bowie's more experimental work of the late 1970s. The recording utilized state-of-the-art digital recording technology and featured prominent use of synthesizers and drum machines, which gave the album its distinctive polished, radio-friendly sound. Engineer Jason Corsaro worked on the project, which benefited from Rodgers' meticulous approach to layering and production detail. The album was released in April 1983 and became Bowie's most commercially successful work, reaching number one in multiple countries and establishing him as a major figure in the 1980s pop mainstream.