David Bowie: Sorrow Picture Disc (2013)

A Glam Rock Revival

David Bowie’s “Sorrow” picture disc, was released in the UK on October 14, 2013, on Parlophone Records (catalogue: DBSOZ 4039, barcode: 825646406845). This limited-edition 7-inch picture disc, featuring the studio track backed with a live version, celebrated Bowie’s glam rock era from his 1973 album Pin Ups. Issued as part of Parlophone’s reissue campaign and tied to the I Own It I Want It collector series, the disc showcased the song’s raw energy with remastered audio, appealing to fans during Bowie’s 2013 comeback with The Next Day. With 38 owners and 2 wants in the community, it’s a sought-after item for glam collectors.

Single Overview

A-Side: “Sorrow” (3:04)Written by Jerry Goldstein, Richard Gottehrer, and Bob Feldman (The McCoys, 1965 original). Bowie’s version, from Pin Ups, is a gritty glam rock cover with his brooding vocals, Mick Ronson’s snarling guitar, and Ken Scott’s production. It captures the album’s nostalgic tribute to ‘60s British Invasion, with a driving rhythm and haunting melody.

B-Side: “Sorrow (Live)” (2:54)A live rendition of the same track, likely from Bowie’s 1973 Ziggy Stardust Tour (specific source unconfirmed, but aligning with Ziggy Stardust: The Motion Picture recordings). It features the band’s raw energy, with Ronson’s guitar and Bowie’s commanding presence, offering a dynamic contrast to the studio cut.

Release Details:

Label: Parlophone Records (UK pressing, 45 RPM).

Format: 7-inch picture disc, with artwork depicting Bowie in his Ziggy-era glam pose (A-side) and live or album imagery (B-side). Part of the I Own It I Want It series.

Notes: ℗ 2013 Jones/Tintoretto Entertainment Co. LLC, under license to Parlophone. Remastered for crisp fidelity. The disc’s community stats show 38 owners and 2 wants, with a valuation page for collectors. Search on eBay for current listings.

Production and Context

The studio “Sorrow” was produced by Ken Scott and Bowie, arranged by Bowie and Mick Ronson, recorded at Chateau d’Hérouville, France, in 1973 for Pin Ups, a covers album revisiting Bowie’s ‘60s influences. The live B-side likely captures a 1973 performance, emphasizing the band’s onstage intensity with Ronson (guitar), Trevor Bolder (bass), and Mick “Woody” Woodmansey (drums). Released during Bowie’s 2013 resurgence, the picture disc was part of Parlophone’s anniversary reissues, bridging his glam past with contemporary appeal.

Chart Performance

The 2013 picture disc was a limited collector’s item and did not chart. The original 1973 single (RCA RS 2137) peaked at:

UK: No. 3 (Official Singles Chart), charting for 12 weeks.

US: No. 35 (Billboard Hot 100).

International:

No. 1 in Ireland.

No. 2 in Netherlands.

No. 4 in Belgium (Flanders).

No. 7 in Germany.

No. 10 in Australia.

No. 13 in New Zealand.The 1973 version was a major hit, solidifying Bowie’s glam era.

Legacy and Collectibility

“Sorrow” is a glam rock staple, praised for its brooding reinterpretation of the McCoys original, and remains a live favorite. The picture disc’s 8.0 (studio) and 7.0 (live) community ratings reflect its appeal. Original 2013 UK picture discs fetch £20–£60 on eBay or Discogs, with mint copies prized for their vibrant design—verify barcode and catalogue for authenticity. Tracks stream on Spotify via Pin Ups remasters, preserving their analog grit. This disc is a gleaming tribute to Bowie’s glam peak.

Have you added this Bowie picture disc to your collection? Does “Sorrow” evoke the glam era for you? Share in the comments!