David Bowie - Pablo Picasso Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally wrote the song 'Pablo Picasso'?

   'Pablo Picasso' was originally written by Jonathan Richman for the proto-punk group The Modern Lovers. It first appeared on their self-titled debut album released in 1976.

2. When did David Bowie release his cover of 'Pablo Picasso'?

   David Bowie released his cover of 'Pablo Picasso' on his 24th studio album, 'Reality,' which came out on September 15, 2003, in Europe and the following day in America.

3. How does Bowie's version of 'Pablo Picasso' differ from the original?

   Bowie's rendition is more upbeat and rockier compared to the minimalist original by The Modern Lovers. He updated some lyrics and added new chords, with Tony Visconti's production utilizing a wall of synthesizers against bursts of guitar and energetic percussion.

4. Who are the musicians that played on Bowie's version of 'Pablo Picasso'?

   The musicians on Bowie's version primarily consisted of his then-touring band: Earl Slick and Gerry Leonard on guitar, Mark Plati on guitar and bass, Mike Garson on piano, Sterling Campbell on drums, Gail Ann Dorsey and Catherine Russell providing backing vocals.

5. What inspired Jonathan Richman to write 'Pablo Picasso'?

   Jonathan Richman stated in a 1980 interview that he was inspired by his own adolescent self-consciousness with women when writing 'Pablo Picasso.' The song humorously suggests that despite being only five foot three, Pablo Picasso never faced rejection from women.