David Bowie - Lady Grinning Soul Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who was the inspiration behind 'Lady Grinning Soul'?

   The song 'Lady Grinning Soul' was inspired by American soul singer Claudia Lennear. David Bowie confirmed in a 2014 phone call to Lennear, revealed in a 2016 interview, that the song was written about her.

2. What album features the song 'Lady Grinning Soul'?

   'Lady Grinning Soul' is featured on David Bowie's 1973 album, 'Aladdin Sane'.

3. How was the song 'Lady Grinning Soul' described by David Bowie?

   David Bowie described Mike Garson's piano opening as a 'ridiculous and spot-on re-creation of a 19th Century music hall 'exotic' number.' He also mentioned it was written for 'a wonderful young girl' whom he hadn’t seen in over 30 years, most likely referring to Claudia Lennear.

4. Which films featured the song 'Lady Grinning Soul'?

   'Lady Grinning Soul' was featured in the films 'The Runaways' (2010) and 'Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel' (2012).

5. Who were the key musicians involved in the recording of 'Lady Grinning Soul'?

   The recording featured David Bowie's backing band the Spiders from Mars, including guitarist Mick Ronson, bassist Trevor Bolder, drummer Woody Woodmansey, pianist Mike Garson, and saxophonist Ken Fordham. The song was co-produced by Bowie and Ken Scott.

6. What genre influences can be heard in 'Lady Grinning Soul'?

   The style of 'Lady Grinning Soul' has been compared to a James Bond theme, and pianist Mike Garson described his performance as 'romantic,' with influences of French music and a touch of Franz Liszt.