Young Americans

During the American tour promoting the dystopian art rock of 1974's <i>Diamond Dogs</i>, David Bowie fell hard for the gloriously smooth sound of Philly soul. So he went right to the source to make <i>Young Americans</i>, with a backing group featuring Luther Vandross. It’s a slick, tuneful pop-R&B record given extra depth by some of Bowie's most pointed lyrics. The gospel-tinged title track and the needling funk of "Fame" (with lyrics and vocals by John Lennon) are among Bowie's most exciting, impassioned performances.