Panic In Detroit
David Bowie · Sound + Vision [2003]
Kept his gun in quiet seclusion, such a humble man
The only survivor of the National People's Gang
Panic in Detroit, I asked for an autograph
He wanted to stay home, I wish someone would phone
Panic in Detroit
He laughed at accidental sirens that broke the evening gloom
The police had warned of repercussions
They followed none too soon
A trickle of strangers were all that were left alive
Panic in Detroit, I asked for an autograph
He wanted to stay home, I wish someone would phone
Panic in Detroit
Putting on some clothes I made my way to school
And I found my teacher crouching in his overalls
I screamed and ran to smash my favourite slot machine
And jumped the silent cars that slept at traffic lights
Having scored a trillion dollars, made a run back home
Found him slumped across the table. A gun and me alone
I ran to the window. Looked for a plane or two
Panic in Detroit. He'd left me an autograph
"Let me collect dust." I wish someone would phone
Panic in Detroit
Panic In Detroit
Panic In Detroit stands as a pivotal moment in David Bowie's discography, capturing the raw energy of his 1974 American tour. Recorded live in Detroit, the track showcases the artist's dynamic stage presence and the intense atmosphere of his Ziggy Stardust era. The performance highlights the band's tight musicianship, blending rock and glam influences into a driving, urgent sound that defined Bowie's live shows during this period. As a key song in his extensive catalogue of live recordings, the song reflects the artist's ability to connect with audiences through powerful, immediate performances. It remains a celebrated example of his work from the mid-1970s, illustrating the evolution of his sound and the enduring impact of his live recordings on his broader musical legacy.