REBEL REBEL - DAVID BOWIE (1974) on RCA Victor 45 RPM - Original alternate US version (USA, America)

Written by David Bowie, 'Rebel, Rebel' was released in February 1974 in the UK. It wasn't until May of that year that the single was released in North America.

The Latin-influenced US version was more up-tempo, shorter in duration and had a completely new arrangement. It is reported that, on the US version, Bowie may have played all of the instruments with the exception of congas. For certain, it was a significant studio reworking undertaken by Bowie and Geoff MacCormack after they had arrived in New York in April.

The US offering was short-lived and within weeks, it was withdrawn and replaced with the more familiar UK version.

This is the original release of US 45 single.

I recorded this video of my original 1974 US pressing being played on my turntable to share the experience of playing 45s with those who also enjoy the hobby and history of vinyl records. I do not claim or own, nor imply ownership, of the song or music recording in any way.

[jekku]

Coolest version ever! I remember hearing this as a teen! 👍❤️🎸 🥁

[BlueParadoxical]

Wow, I have never heard this version before! It gave me chills. Thank you

[dkrohnert]

This was the very best version of the song ❤

[kabramarroquin]

Nunca la avía escuchado esa versión 10/10

[DavidOPerson]

Dense, exhilarating and rather camp, and so much snappier (and fun) than the more established version, which I like but which I always find a bit plodding by comparison. I bought the single (this version) in July '74, when it reached the Top Ten of 'progressive' Top 40 station WBZ-FM in Boston.

[wmbrown]

Pop Chart Peaks: Cash Box 53, Billboard 64, Record World 72 - UK Peaks: 3 (NME), 5 (BMRB), 6 (MM)

Much prefer this to the long "album" version.