About The Song
Song about fictional astronaut Major Tom. Inspired by the film 2001: A Space Odyssey and Bowie’s feelings of alienation. Released in 1969, just ahead of the first moon landing. Became one of Bowie’s most iconic and influential songs. Haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and themes of isolation and detachment.
Bowie began writing it after seeing 2001: A Space Odyssey multiple times. Character of Major Tom was based on the film’s protagonist, Dr. David Bowman. Recording process was innovative for its time, incorporating early synthesizers and sound effects.
Reached #1 on the UK Singles Chart and helped launch Bowie’s career. Endured as a classic rock anthem and a touchstone of space-themed music. Major Tom character has reappeared in other Bowie songs, including “Ashes to Ashes” and “Hallo Spaceboy.” Continues to inspire and influence musicians and artists across genres.
Video
Lyrics
Ground Control to Major Tom
Ground Control to Major Tom
Take your protein pills and put your helmet on
(Ten)
Ground Control
(Nine)
To Major Tom
(Eight, seven, six)
Commencing countdown
(Five)
Engines on
(Four, three, two)
Check ignition
(One)
And may God’s love
(Lift-off)
Be with you
This is Ground Control to Major Tom
You’ve really made the grade
And the papers want to know whose shirts you wear
Now it’s time to leave the capsule if you dare
This is Major Tom to Ground Control
I’m stepping through the door
And I’m floating in a most peculiar way
And the stars look very different today
For here am I sitting in a tin can
Far above the world
Planet Earth is blue
And there’s nothing I can do
Though I’m past one hundred thousand miles
I’m feeling very still
And I think my spaceship knows which way to go
Tell my wife I love her very much
She knows
Ground Control to Major Tom
Your circuit’s dead, there’s something wrong
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you hear me, Major Tom?
Can you he—
Here am I floating ’round my tin can
Far above the Moon
Planet Earth is blue
And there’s nothing I can do