The cultural milestone known as " Starman Appearance Day " refers to July 6, 1972 , the historic date when David Bowie performed his single "Starman" as his flamboyant alter ego Ziggy Stardust on the BBC's television show, Top of the Pops .  While the song itself was released as a single on April 28, 1972, this specific television broadcast is widely recognized as a pivotal moment in music history that launched Bowie into instant superstardom and reshaped British pop culture.  Why the Performance Was Historic The Look: Bowie stunned viewers by sporting an androgynous look featuring a vibrant rainbow jumpsuit, "shocking" red hair, and astronaut boots.   The Controversial Arm Drape: During the performance, Bowie casually and coquettishly draped his arm around guitarist Mick Ronson's shoulder, a revolutionary and provocative statement for prime-time television at the time.   The Camera Point: When singing the lyric "I had to phone someo...