The song David Bowie’s says he father gave to him in a dream and told him he has 5years to live: “It just feels right but..”

David Bowie’s career was marked by a series of enigmatic and groundbreaking works, and his 1969 hit “Space Oddity” was just the beginning. With its intriguing narrative and otherworldly themes, it set the stage for Bowie’s future explorations of complex concepts and ambiguous meanings.

Among these, one of the most perplexing tracks is “Five Years,” the opening number of his seminal 1972 album, *The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars*.

“Five Years” immediately establishes a somber and reflective tone, addressing the end of the world in a way that has sparked various interpretations among fans and critics.

The song’s apocalyptic imagery, coupled with its melancholic melody, has led many to believe that Bowie was predicting the world’s end within five years.

Drummer Woody Woodmansey, who played on the track, has shed some light on the creative process behind its distinctive

drumbeat. In reflecting on his contribution, Woodmansey described the challenge of setting the right tone for both the song and the album.

“What was wanted was a drum beat to introduce the song itself and to set an atmosphere for the whole album,” he said. The drumbeat, characterized by its restrained and almost resigned quality, was intended to convey a sense of impending doom and existential despair.

Woodmansey’s approach was influenced by his own reflections on what music might accompany the end of the world. He recalled, “I remember going through drum rolls, cymbal crashes and I kind of thought: ‘Well if it’s the end of the world…

I can’t be bothered! Haha!’” His choice to emphasize a feeling of apathy and resignation reflected the emotional landscape Bowie aimed to evoke.

However, Bowie himself provided an alternative perspective on the song’s meaning. In various interviews, he suggested that “Five Years” was not necessarily a literal prediction of the end of the world but rather a metaphor for personal or existential crises.

Bowie once mentioned that the song was inspired by a dream involving his late father, who told him he had only five years left to live. This personal revelation, coupled with the metaphorical weight of the track, adds layers of meaning to the song beyond its apparent apocalyptic theme.

Despite the ambiguity surrounding its interpretation, “Five Years” remains a powerful and evocative piece, setting the stage for the narrative arc of Ziggy Stardust.

Bowie’s ability to blend personal reflection with broader themes of existential crisis is a testament to his artistic vision. The track not only opens one of his most celebrated albums but also continues to provoke thought and discussion, embodying the very essence of Bowie’s innovative and enigmatic approach to music.