David Bowie, the ever-evolving chameleon of rock, was renowned for his eclectic personas. Among them, Ziggy Stardust stands out as a fan favorite. While many are aware that Bowie drew inspiration from artists like Iggy Pop and Vince Taylor, the “Stardust” in Ziggy’s name has a more obscure origin: an enigmatic musician named Norman Carl Odam, popularly known as the Legendary Stardust Cowboy.
Hailing from Lubbock, Texas, Odam recorded his debut track, “Paralyzed,” in 1968. The song gained local traction and eventually caught the attention of Mercury Records. His stage name reflected his fascination with both outer space and cowboy culture—a nod to his Texan roots. “Paralyzed” has been celebrated as a pioneering piece in the outlaw country genre and is often credited as a precursor to psychobilly. Interestingly, it has also appeared on various lists highlighting the “worst songs of all time.”
In a 1996 interview with the BBC, Bowie recounted his introduction to the Legendary Stardust Cowboy upon signing with Mercury Records in the late ’60s. He was immediately captivated by Odam’s work, stating, “I fell in love with the idea of his music.” This admiration led Bowie to incorporate “Stardust” into his own alter ego’s moniker.
Despite a promising start, Odam’s musical journey faced challenges, primarily due to the unconventional nature of his sound, which limited its commercial appeal. However, Bowie’s appreciation for his artistry remained steadfast. He even invited Odam to perform alongside him at a festival in 2007. As of today, at 77, the Legendary Stardust Cowboy continues to be recognized as a trailblazer in psychobilly and remains a captivating figure in rock and roll history.
