Album Info
| Artist: | Various |
| Album: | Just A Gigolo |
| Released: | Australia, 1979 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Marlene Dietrich - "Just A Gigolo" | |
| A2 | The Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Salome | |
| A3 | The Manhattan Transfer - Johnny | |
| A4 | Gunther Fischer Orchestra, The - The Streets Of Berlin | |
| A5 | The Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Charmaine | |
| A6 | Sydne Rome - Don't Let It Be Too Long | |
| A7 | The Ragtimers - The Ragtime Dance | |
| A8 | The Manhattan Transfer - Jealous Eyes | |
| B1 | The Rebels - The Revolutionary Song | |
| B2 | The Ragtimers - Easy Winners | |
| B3 | The Manhattan Transfer - I Kiss Your Hand, Madame | |
| B4 | Gunther Fischer Quintet, The - Kissing Time | |
| B5 | The Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Black Bottom | |
| B6 | The Barnabas Orchestra - Jealous Eyes | |
| B7 | Village People - Just A Gigolo |
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Description
"Just a Gigolo" is a soundtrack album that accompanies the 1978 film of the same name, directed by David Hemmings and starring David Bowie. The film, set in post-World War I Berlin, explores themes of disillusionment and the search for identity, with Bowie playing the lead role of Paul Ambrosius von Przygodski, a Prussian officer who becomes a gigolo. The soundtrack album, released in 1979, features a diverse array of music that reflects the film's setting and mood.
The album is notable for its eclectic mix of artists and styles, capturing the essence of the Weimar Republic era with a modern twist. It includes contributions from artists such as Marlene Dietrich, who performs the title track "Just a Gigolo," marking her final film appearance. Dietrich's rendition of the song is a standout moment, her voice carrying the weight of nostalgia and melancholy that perfectly encapsulates the film's themes.
David Bowie's involvement in the project is one of the album's key attractions. Although Bowie does not perform on the soundtrack, his presence in the film and his influence on the project are significant. At the time, Bowie was at a creative peak, having recently released his "Berlin Trilogy" of albums, which included "Low," ""Heroes,"" and "Lodger." These albums were known for their experimental sound and exploration of themes related to identity and alienation, which resonate with the film's narrative.
The soundtrack also features music by the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, a British band known for their authentic performances of 1920s and 1930s jazz and swing music. Their contributions add an air of authenticity to the soundtrack, transporting listeners back to the vibrant and tumultuous atmosphere of 1920s Berlin. The inclusion of period-appropriate music helps to ground the film in its historical context, while also providing a contrast to the more modern elements introduced by Bowie's involvement.
Critically, the "Just a Gigolo" soundtrack received mixed reviews. While some praised the album for its atmospheric qualities and the way it complements the film's setting, others felt that it lacked cohesion due to its varied musical styles. The film itself was not a commercial success, and this may have impacted the reception of the soundtrack. However, for fans of David Bowie and those interested in the cultural milieu of post-war Berlin, the album offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique artistic collaboration.
In terms of cultural significance, "Just a Gigolo" and its soundtrack capture a moment in time when the world was grappling with the aftermath of war and the search for new identities. The film and its music reflect the tensions and transformations of the era, making it a valuable piece of historical and cultural commentary. The soundtrack serves as a reminder of the power of music to evoke a sense of place and time, and its ability to enhance the storytelling of cinema.
Overall, "Just a Gigolo" is an intriguing soundtrack that, while perhaps not achieving widespread acclaim, offers a rich tapestry of sounds and styles that reflect the film's themes and setting. It stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the late 1970s, bringing together iconic figures like Marlene Dietrich and David Bowie in a project that bridges the past and the present. For those interested in the intersection of music, film, and history, "Just a Gigolo" provides a compelling listening experience.