David Bowie

Lyrics

[Intro]

[Verse 1]
Man, she punched me like a dude
Hold your mad hands, I cried
‘Tis a pity she was a whore
‘Tis my curse, I suppose
That was patrol
That was patrol
This is the war
[​Bridge]

[Verse 2]
Black struck the kiss, he kept my cock
Smote the mistress, drifting on
‘Tis a pity she was a whore
She stole my purse, with rattling speed
That was patrol
This is the war
‘Tis a pity she was a whore

[Bridge 2]​​

[Verse 3]
Man, she punched me like a dude
Hold your mad hands, I cried
‘Tis a pity she was a whore
‘Tis my fate, I suppose
For, that was patrol
That was patrol
‘Tis a pity she was a whore
[Outro]
‘Tis a pity she was a whore
Woo!
Ahh! Woo!
Woo!

If you're a fan of David Bowie, then you're well aware of his ability to push boundaries and create thought-provoking music. One such example is the song 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore, which serves as the B-side to Bowie's single "Sue (Or In A Season of Crime)." This track, released in 2014, was eventually included on his final album, Blackstar, adding to its significance. But what makes this song so intriguing? Let's dive into the details and uncover the layers of meaning behind 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore.

About 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore

'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore takes its title from a play by John Ford called 'Tis Pity She's a Whore. Bowie's choice of title immediately piques curiosity, as it evokes a sense of intrigue and controversy. The play itself is known for its exploration of taboo themes, including incestuous love. This connection sets the stage for the provocative nature of Bowie's song, hinting at something deeper beneath the surface.

The lyrics of 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore are just as enigmatic as its title. Bowie, known for his poetic prowess, crafts a narrative that delves into the human experience amidst the backdrop of the First World War. The song acknowledges the shocking rawness of the war, channeling its intensity and brutality into a musical expression. Bowie taps into the emotional turmoil of the time, using his artistry to explore the complex web of emotions that war brings forth.

Musically, 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore features a blend of avant-garde jazz and rock influences, showcasing Bowie's experimental side. The instrumentation is dynamic, with intricate drum patterns, haunting saxophone melodies, and distorted guitar riffs weaving throughout the track. This fusion creates a sense of dissonance, mirroring the tumultuous nature of war and the poignant themes explored within the lyrics.

The song's release as the B-side to "Sue (Or In A Season of Crime)" further emphasizes its significance. Bowie intentionally chose to pair these two songs together, crafting a cohesive narrative that transcends the boundaries of a single release. This strategic decision demonstrates Bowie's commitment to delivering a comprehensive musical experience, where each song serves a purpose within a larger context.

Shortly after its single release, 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore found its home on Bowie's final album, Blackstar. This inclusion solidifies its importance in the artist's overarching body of work. Blackstar, released 14 months after the single, became a poignant farewell from Bowie, as he tragically passed away just two days after its release. The song's presence on this album further cements its significance and serves as a reflection of Bowie's brilliance as a musician and storyteller.

'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore showcases Bowie's ability to tackle complex themes and evoke deep emotions through his music. With its thought-provoking title, powerful lyrics, and captivating musical composition, this song leaves a lasting impression on listeners. It serves as a testament to the artistry and creativity that made David Bowie an iconic figure in the music industry.

In the end, 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore stands as a testament to Bowie's fearless approach to music. It challenges societal norms, tackles difficult subjects, and captures the essence of a tumultuous era. This song not only showcases the depth and range of Bowie's talent but also serves as a reminder of the impact music can have in expressing the human experience. 'Tis a Pity She Was a Whore is a powerful piece of art that continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the indelible mark Bowie left on the music world.

• Release Date: November 10, 2014
• Artist: David Bowie