Ziggy Stardust

Bauhaus's rendition of 'Ziggy Stardust' pays homage to David Bowie's iconic character, Ziggy Stardust, a fictional rock star who becomes a messianic figure. The song narrates the rise and fall of Ziggy, a character who starts as a talented and unique musician, playing guitar left-handed and captivating audiences with his charisma and style. Ziggy's band, the Spiders from Mars, initially supports him, but as Ziggy's fame grows, so does his ego, leading to tension and eventual downfall.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Ziggy's persona, describing his 'screwed up eyes and screwed down hair-do' and his ability to charm and dominate the stage. However, the song also hints at the darker side of fame, with references to Ziggy's 'snow-white tan' and 'making love with his ego.' These lines suggest that Ziggy's success and self-obsession ultimately lead to his isolation and demise. The metaphor of Ziggy as a 'leper messiah' underscores the idea that his rise to fame was both miraculous and destructive, leading to his eventual downfall when 'the kids had killed the man.'

The song also explores the dynamics within Ziggy's band, highlighting the tension and disillusionment that arise as Ziggy's ego grows. The Spiders from Mars, once loyal supporters, become disenchanted and ultimately decide to 'break up the band.' This narrative reflects the broader theme of the destructive nature of fame and the impact it can have on personal relationships and artistic integrity. Bauhaus's interpretation of 'Ziggy Stardust' captures the essence of Bowie's original creation while adding their unique post-punk edge, making it a powerful commentary on the perils of stardom and the fragility of human connections.