The 1982 album Zombie Birdhouse on Chris Stein's Animal label, with Stein himself producing, was no more commercially successful than his Arista works. In 1983, Pop's fortunes changed when David Bowie recorded a cover of the song "China Girl". The song had originally appeared on The Idiot and was a major hit on Bowie's blockbuster Let's Dance album. As co-writer of the song, Pop received substantial royalties. On Tonight in 1984, Bowie recorded five more of their co-written songs (2 from Lust for Life, 1 from New Values, and 2 new songs), assuring Pop financial security, at least for the short term. The support from Bowie enabled Pop to take a three-year break, during which he overcame his resurgent heroin addiction and took acting classes.
The 1982 album Zombie Birdhouse on Chris Stein's Animal label with Stein himself producing was no more commercially successful than his Arista works In 1983 Pop's fortunes changed when David Bowie recorded a cover of the song "China Girl" The song had originally appeared on The Idiot and was a major hit on Bowie's blockbuster Let's Dance album As co-writer of the song Pop received substantial royalties On Tonight in 1984 Bowie recorded five more of their co-written songs (2 from Lust for Life 1 from New Values and 2 new songs) assuring Pop financial security at least for the short term The support from Bowie enabled Pop to take a three-year break during which he overcame his resurgent heroin addiction and took acting classes