David Bowie is an icon of music, fashion, and limitless freedom — a perpetual source of inspiration. A mystery that no one truly unraveled before time ran its course. We could go on with endless tributes, but what did the artist himself say about his life and fame?
Here’s a glimpse into the mind of a legend. Catch 10 extraordinary David Bowie quotes.
David Robert Jones
David Bowie’s real name was David Robert Jones. He was born in London on January 8, 1947, and passed away in New York on January 10, 2016. A British musician, singer, songwriter, and actor, he was a superstar and one of the most influential figures in music history.
Bowie’s innovation and openness set him apart, not just in music, but also in fashion and art. He had a phenomenal ability to blend rock, pop, soul, funk, and electronic music. David loved to experiment.
Cosmic album
David Bowie’s music career soared in the 1970s with the release of his fifth studio album, The Rise, and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars. The album tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, an alien rock star.
Without a doubt, Bowie had a tremendous impact on popular culture. His charisma and talent secured him a place in the pantheon of the greatest artists of all time.
David Bowie quotes
1.
Even though I was very shy, I found I could get onstage if I had a new identity.
“New York Daily News”, June 2002
2.
Growing up with my son is one of the greatest enjoyments that I have.
In an interview with Angus MacKinnon for NME, September 1980
3.
Tomorrow belongs to those who can hear it coming.
A press advertisement for the album Heroes, October 1977
4.
Fame can take interesting men and thrust mediocrity upon them.
“Esquire”, February 2004
5.
I think fame itself is not a rewarding thing. The most you can say is that it gets you a seat in restaurants.
In an interview with Paul Du Noyer for Q magazine, April 1990
6.
Music has given me over 40 years of extraordinary experiences. It’s been both my doorway of perception and the house that I live in.
For Berklee College of Music, Boston, May 1999
7.
I’m always amazed that people take what I say seriously. I don’t even take what I am seriously.
8.
The truth is of course is that there is no journey. We are arriving and departing all at the same time.
9.
I don’t know how many times someone has come up to me and said, ‘Hey, Let’s dance!’. I hate dancing. God, it’s stupid.
10.
I always thought I was intellectual about what I do, but I’ve come to the realisation that I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing half the time.
In an interview with Charles Shaar Murray for NME, September 1984
The other thing I would say is that if you feel safe in the area you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you’re capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth, and when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.
If you’re a fan of David Bowie’s work, listen to radio stations playing music from the 80s and 90s.