Shadow Man
David Bowie · Slow Burn [1977]
Who believes at where he is
And there's a girl
Up ahead who says she knows
And the street overflows
With the folk who understand
But for the guy who can't be seen
He's the shadow man
And the shadow man is close at hand
Take a turn and see his smile
Made of nothing but loneliness
Just take a walk and be a friend
To the shadow man
You can call him joe, you can call him sam
You should call and see who answers
For he promises to come running, guided by the truth
But the shadow man is really you
Look in his eyes and see your reflection
Look to the stars and see his eyes
He'll show you tomorrow, he'll show you the sorrows
Of what you did today
You can call him foe, you can call him friend
You should call and see who answers
For he knows your eyes are drawn to the road ahead
And the shadow man is waiting round the bend
Oh, the shadow man
Ohooooo oooo
Shadow man, shadow man
It's really you, it's really you, it's really you
He's the shadow man
Oh yeah
Shadow man
Shadow Man
Shadow Man stands as a compelling song in David Bowie's extensive discography, capturing the artist's signature ability to blend theatricality with introspective rock. Recorded during a period of significant creative evolution, the track reflects the atmospheric textures and narrative depth that defined his work in the mid-to-late 1970s. While often overshadowed by his most celebrated anthems, the song showcases Bowie's mastery of mood and melody, offering listeners a glimpse into his broader musical exploration. As part of a rich catalogue of recordings, Shadow Man contributes to the enduring legacy of an artist who consistently redefined the boundaries of popular music through innovative songwriting and distinctive vocal performance.