David Bowie - No Plan Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired the music video for 'No Plan' by David Bowie?

   The music video for 'No Plan' was directed by Tom Hingston and intended as a tribute to David Bowie on his 70th birthday. It features a series of TV screens in an electrical shop window displaying images of Bowie and lyrics from the song. The shop, named Newton Electrical, references Thomas Newton, a character from Bowie's earlier works. Hingston infused the video with multiple references for fans, creating a setting that feels familiar yet out of place, reflecting themes of disembodiment and timelessness present in the song.

2. Who performed 'No Plan' in the Lazarus musical?

   In the musical Lazarus, 'No Plan' was performed by Sophia Anne Caruso. She played one of the leading roles in the production and her version is featured on the cast album. Her performance style brought a dramatic, musical theatre approach to the song.

3. How did David Bowie's approach to recording 'No Plan' change over time?

   'No Plan' was first recorded in January 2015 during sessions that might have included it on Bowie's Blackstar album but didn't make it to the final tracklisting. Later, in March 2015, Bowie revisited and re-recorded the song with different instrumentation and more takes. Initially recorded with just guitar accompaniment by Bowie himself, he later sent a new demo featuring acoustic piano by Henry Hey and vocals styled for theatrical performance.

4. What role did Donny McCaslin play in the creation of 'No Plan'?

   Donny McCaslin led the jazz troupe that collaborated with David Bowie on both his Blackstar album and on new songs written for Lazarus including 'No Plan'. For this particular track, McCaslin contributed significantly by playing flutes, clarinet, and low-end tenor saxophone to support Bowie’s vocal arrangements. His insights into changing phrase lengths and musical structures were crucial in shaping the final sound of 'No Plan'.