i did the same test at our local used cd store (where i get all my non bowie boots). I played the bonus disc of the BTWN 3 disc set and everyone was grooving to it! One couple who came in said that it was the best thing they had ever heard played in the store. Another educated gentleman was stopped dead by the the indonesian vocals (having spent some time there) and did not really appreciate the depth of Bowie's genious prior to hearing this disc. Even young kids looking for tool and insane clown posse were bopping to LUCY!
I, of course, made the connection to madonna just by hearing the lyrics. I agree with a statement by tony visconti in WEST 57th (1987)..."David breaks the new ground, he creates the musical territory...others come along behind him and do it a little bit more slick, a little more commercial, and they get all the credit for it". I cannot blame david for reminding listeners (no matter how subtely) that he is the innovator.
I see "who died and made you material girl" as a reference to the fact that he was back in business.
He got his wish when Madonna gave him those "few simple words like i love you (DAVID) i need you" at the hall of fame induction. By the way, did you know madonna released a cd entitled DANCE?
I don't think that lucy is the greatest song on the album, but I do LOVE it! and I agree that,if shortened, it would have been a succes in America.
"howls like a wolf"