Covering David Bowie Spotify Playlist

The Times of London reports legendary musician David Bowie will release a new album entitled Blackstar on January 8, 2016 – which happens to be the day he turns 69. According to the article, the new LP “may well be the odd-est work yet” from The Thin White Duke, and in honor of these developments this week’s Spotify Playlist – Covering David Bowie – compiles 20 acts performing songs originally written by the influential artist.

Like his last full-length release, 2013’s The Next Day, Bowie’s 25th studio album was recorded in New York City at The Magic Shop. The 45-minute Blackstar reportedly includes just seven tracks, including a 10-minute take on the title track which also doubles as the theme to a new TV series The Last Panthers, and can be partially heard in the opening credits video below:

Bowie’s ever-evolving style and musical output helped solidify his place among the most iconic and captivating figures in rock history. Our Spotify Playlist features a broad range of musicians interpreting Bowie’s diverse catalog of work. Among the selections is a totally stripped down, hardly recognizable acoustic version of “Let’s Dance” by M. Ward as well as a delicate take on “Life On Mars?” by Seu Jorge from his contributions to the Life Aquatic Soundtrack.

You’ll also hear inventive covers by Marco Benevento, Keller Williams (who gives Bowie’s collaboration with Queen, “Under Pressure,” a whirl) and The Sea and Cake, powerful recordings by Janelle Monáe, Warpaint and Heartless Bastards and more delicate interpretations by the likes of Dinosaur Jr., Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes and Lewis & Clarke. There are also live performances such as the acclaimed Nirvana rendition of “The Man Who Sold The World” from their MTV Unplugged session, as well as live cuts from Natalie Merchant, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Polyphonic Spree.

All told it’s one hour and 20+ minutes of Bowie under cover for your listening pleasure.