Rebel Rebel

David Bowie

About Rebel Rebel

"Rebel Rebel" is a song by English musician David Bowie, released in 1974 as a single from the album Diamond Dogs. Cited as his most covered track, it has been described as being effectively Bowie's farewell to the glam rock movement that he had helped pioneer, as well as being a proto-punk track.


Year:
1989
3:01
89 

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Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo 
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo

You've got your mother in a whirl 
She's not sure if you're a boy or a girl
Hey babe, your hair's alright
Hey babe, let's go out tonight
You like me, and I like it all
We like dancing and we look divine
You love bands when they're playing hard
You want more and you want it fast
They put you down, they say I'm wrong
You tacky thing, you put them on

Rebel Rebel, you've torn your dress
Rebel Rebel, your face is a mess
Rebel Rebel, how could they know?
Hot tramp, I love you so!

Don't ya?
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo 

You've got your mother in a whirl 'cause she's
Not sure if you're a boy or a girl
Hey babe, your hair's alright
Hey babe, let's stay out tonight
You like me, and I like it all
We like dancing and we look divine
You love bands when they're playing hard
You want more and you want it fast
They put you down, they say I'm wrong
You tacky thing, you put them on

Rebel Rebel, you've torn your dress
Rebel Rebel, your face is a mess
Rebel Rebel, how could they know?
Hot tramp, I love you so!

Don't ya?
Oh?
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo 
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo doo

Rebel Rebel, you've torn your dress
Rebel Rebel, your face is a mess
Rebel Rebel, how could they know?
Hot tramp, I love you so!

You've torn your dress, your face is a mess
You can't get enough, but enough ain't the test
You've got your transmission and your live wire
You got your cue line and a handful of ludes
You wanna be there when they count up the dudes
And I love your dress
You're a juvenile success
Because your face is a mess
So how could they know?
I said, how could they know?

So what you wanna know
Calamity's child, chi-chile, chi-chile
Where'd you wanna go?
What can I do for you? Looks like you've been there too
'Cause you've torn your dress
And your face is a mess
Ooo, your face is a mess
Ooo, ooo, so how could they know?
Eh, eh, how could they know? 
Eh, eh

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David Bowie

David Robert Jones (8 January 1947 - 10 January 2016), known by his stage name David Bowie ( /ˈboʊ.i/ BOH-ee), was an English musician, actor, record producer and arranger. A major figure for over four decades in the world of popular music, Bowie is widely regarded as an innovator, particularly for his work in the 1970s. He is known for his distinctive voice as well as the intellectual depth and considerable eclecticism of his work. more »

30 fans

Written by: David Bowie

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, TINTORETTO MUSIC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Artist Inspiration
"Rebel Rebel" was written by David Bowie as a tribute to the rebellious youth of the 1970s, particularly those in the glam rock movement. He wanted to encourage young people to defy societal expectations and norms.
Album Release
The song was first released in February 1974 as a single and later included in the album "Diamond Dogs" in May 1974.
Chart Performance
"Rebel Rebel" did well on the charts, reaching No. 5 in the UK and No. 64 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It's one of Bowie's most successful songs.
Famous Guitar Riff
The song is notable for its distinctive guitar riff, which was played by Bowie himself. It's considered one of the iconic guitar riffs in rock music.
Evergreen Influence
The song has been covered by numerous bands after its release, demonstrating its enduring influence in the world of rock music.
Lyrics Interpretation
The song's lyrics, "You've got your mother in a whirl/She's not sure if you're a boy or a girl", are often interpreted as an affirmation of gender fluidity and expression, something that Bowie himself was known for exploring.
Live Performances
Bowie performed "Rebel Rebel" in most of his live shows and tours, and it became one of his signature songs.
Media Features
"Rebel Rebel" has been featured in several popular films and TV shows, including "Morvern Callar", "Frances Ha" and "The Martian".
Musical Style
The song has been classified as a glam rock song, a genre known for its flamboyant style and pop rock influences.
Song Duration
The original single version of "Rebel Rebel" runs for 4 minutes and 22 seconds.
Last Glam Rock Song
"Rebel Rebel" is often considered Bowie's last glam rock song, as his music started taking a new direction after its release.
Revisions
The song has a number of revised versions; the most notable is a shorter, rearranged version featured on the compilation album "ChangesOneBowie".
Originality
Unlike most of Bowie's early hits, the song does not feature lead guitar work by Mick Ronson, Bowie's early creative collaborator. Bowie played the guitar himself.
Music Video
Despite its popularity, "Rebel Rebel" did not have a promotional video until 2014, 40 years after its initial release.
Iconic Fashion
The cover artwork for the single features Bowie in an eye-catching 'Pierrot' costume, an iconic image in his fashion legacy.

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    Rebel Rebel

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1974

    Billboard #64


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