David Bowie
Revolutionizing rock, Bowie blended personas and genres into timeless artistry
David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, in Brixton, London, was an artist whose influence stretched far beyond the confines of any single genre or medium. With his chameleonic ability to continuously reinvent himself, Bowie became one of the most pioneering and influential musicians in the history of rock music. His career, spanning over five decades, reflected not only a relentless pursuit of innovation but also a profound understanding of the cultural currents of his times.
From an early age, Bowie displayed a fervent interest in music and performance. Falling under the influence of artists like Little Richard and Elvis Presley, Bowie was particularly drawn to the idea of identities and characters—a motif that would become a hallmark of his career. His early experimentation with various bands and performance arts laid the groundwork for his breakout as a solo artist with the release of "Space Oddity" in 1969. The track, enriched by its release during the Apollo 11 moon landing, introduced audiences to Bowie's distinctive ability to blend compelling narratives with ethereal music.
The 1970s were arguably Bowie's most transformative period. With albums like "The Man Who Sold The World" (1970) and "Hunky Dory" (1971), he began to cement his status as a cultural icon. However, it was his creation of the androgynous alien rock star persona Ziggy Stardust in "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" (1972) that catapulted him into the limelight. This alter ego not only challenged the norms of gender and sexuality but also pioneered what would become glam rock, influencing countless artists with its bold theatricality.
“I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring.”
— David BowieListen Now
Early Life
David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, in Brixton, London, was the son of Margaret Mary "Peggy" (née Burns) and Haywood Stenton "John" Jones. His mother worked as a waitress, while his father served as a promotions officer for the children's charity Barnardo's. Growing up in post-war London within a working-class family, Bowie faced both the challenges and vibrancy of the era. At six, his family moved to the suburb of Bromley, which provided a more stable environment for young David.
Timeline
David Bowie is born as David Robert Jones on January 8 in Brixton, London.
Released debut album 'David Bowie'.
Released the single 'Space Oddity', which becomes his first hit.
Introduces alter ego Ziggy Stardust with the album 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars'.
Released the acclaimed album 'Station to Station'.
In Their Own Words
“I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring.”
— David Bowie
“We can be heroes, just for one day.”
— David Bowie
“The only real thing is the music, it's the language of the soul.”
— David Bowie
Legendary Moments
David Bowie Releases 'Space Oddity'
Timed to coincide with the Apollo 11 moon landing, Bowie's tale of Major Tom adrift in space gave the world one of its most enduring and prescient pop anthems.
David Bowie Release "Let's Dance"
On this day in 1983, David Bowie released the album "Let's Dance".
David Bowie Release "Tonight"
On this day in 1984, David Bowie released the album "Tonight".
David Bowie Dies at 69
Just two days after releasing his final album 'Blackstar,' the rock chameleon passed away from liver cancer, leaving a universe of music behind.
Essential Albums
View AllDavid Bowie
1967London Bye, Ta-Ta
1969David Bowie
1969
The World of David Bowie
1970The Man Who Sold the World
1970
Hunky Dory
1971
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust
1972
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
1972
Images 1966–1967
1973
Aladdin Sane
1973
Heroes
1977Blackstar
2016Own a Piece of David Bowie's Legacy
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