“Space Oddity” (1969 issue) #124 8/23/1969

Another record that did zilch in America the first time around, though it became David Bowie’s first UK Top 5 record. In a few years a reissue became his initial US hit (#15), which he based on “2001: A Space Odyssey.” An earlier version had Rick Wakeman (pre-Yes) playing keyboards. Bowie had a tough time finding a producer, being turned down by George Martin and Tony Visconti until finally securing Gus Dudgeon for the job. Dudgeon would produce all of Elton John’s hits in the 70’s.