Ching-A-Ling
David Bowie · Deram Anthology 1966-68
A crystal girl I'd spy
She kissed the blue bird's honey tongue
And stuttered as she sighed
I wish to sing the ching-a-ling song
Ching-a-ling song is fine
I'd give my jewels and caviar
To make the daydeam mine
While stepping thru a heaven's eye
Two lover souls we spied
They wished the cloud boys sang to me
A cheerful happy cry
We love to play our love-strong hearts
No better do we know
No gifts of money do we give
For love is all we own
Ching-A-Ling
David Bowie's "Ching-A-Ling" stands as a pivotal early recording that helped define his unique artistic voice during the mid-1960s. Recorded for Deram Records, the track showcases Bowie's emerging ability to blend theatrical performance with psychedelic pop, setting the stage for his later global stardom. Released within the Deram Anthology 1966-68 collection, the song reflects the experimental spirit of the era, featuring Bowie's distinctive vocal delivery and innovative use of studio techniques. It serves as a crucial link between his early British rock roots and the glam rock explosion that would follow, demonstrating his commitment to pushing musical boundaries and creating a persona that transcended traditional genre limitations.