The record would be released in 1970 and with Bowie already establishing himself in the UK, the concerns surrounded the album’s prospects in America. Despite the record having a small budget, Oberman was optimistic.
“The label’s got doubts that’s all,” Oberman says. “But I don’t.”
“You don’t?” returns Bowie.
“No. I think you’re going to be the biggest goddamn star in America,” Oberman reassures. “Seriously man, this is a great record, it’s a great record. It’s just no one knows how to sell you in America. They just don’t care enough.”
The lack of confidence in Bowie is evident but he would eventually live up to Oberman’s faith, releasing 11 albums in the next ten years. Hunky Dory would follow in 1971 and reach platinum in the UK. 1972’s The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars would see Bowie find gold status in the States and from there, the legendary songwriter skyrocketed to global fame.
The film Stardust focuses on the early ’70s when Bowie made the courageous transformation to become Ziggy Stardust. It was scheduled to premiere at New York’s Tribeca Film Festival this week, which has since been postponed. Check out the clip below:
Read more about the Stardust biopic here. This story was originally published by Beat Magazine – show ’em some love.