David Bowie

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

First released1972

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars was recorded primarily at Trident Studios in London between November 1971 and February 1972, with producer Ken Scott and engineer Roy Thomas Baker overseeing the sessions. David Bowie worked with his newly assembled backing band, the Spiders from Mars, featuring Mick Ronson on guitar, Trevor Bolder on bass, and Woody Woodmansey on drums, establishing a more rock-oriented sound than his previous work. The album utilized multi-track recording techniques and innovative production methods of the era, including layered vocals and guitar work that became hallmarks of the glam rock sound. Released in June 1972, the album's production captured a pivotal moment in Bowie's career, transforming him from a cult artist into an international star while defining the aesthetic and sonic qualities of glam rock for a generation.