Hang on to Yourself

David Bowie's 'Hang on to Yourself' is a vibrant and energetic anthem that captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the exhilarating chaos of rock 'n' roll. The song, part of his iconic album 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,' is a celebration of the raw, unfiltered energy that defined the glam rock era. The lyrics paint a picture of a wild, almost surreal world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur, embodied by the enigmatic female character who is a 'tongue-twisting storm' and a 'funky-thigh collector.' This character seems to symbolize the allure and danger of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, a life lived on the edge, driven by passion and electric dreams.

The chorus, with its repetitive and urgent 'come on, come on,' serves as a rallying cry, urging listeners to seize the moment and embrace the chaos. The line 'if you think we're gonna make it, you better hang on to yourself' suggests a sense of uncertainty and the need for self-reliance amidst the whirlwind of fame and hedonism. The reference to 'The Spiders From Mars' ties the song back to Bowie's alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, and his band, reinforcing the theme of otherworldly escapism and the transformative power of music.

Bowie's lyrics also touch on the physicality and primal nature of rock 'n' roll. The imagery of moving 'like tigers on Vaseline' and the idea that 'the bitter comes out better on a stolen guitar' highlight the raw, untamed spirit of the genre. This song is not just about the music; it's about the lifestyle, the attitude, and the sense of belonging to something larger than oneself. 'Hang on to Yourself' is a testament to the enduring appeal of rock 'n' roll and its ability to inspire and energize, even in the face of uncertainty and chaos.