Quick Wiki
- Full Name David Robert Jones
- Birth Date January 8, 1947
- Birth Date Jan 08, 1947
- Age 78 Years, 2 Months
- Death Date 2016-01-10
- Age At Death 69
- Place Of Death New York City, US
- Birthplace London, England
- Occupation Singer, song writer, musician, actor
- Mother Margaret Mary "Peggy"
- Father Haywood Stenton "John" Jones
David Bowie | Biography
David Bowie was a revolutionary rock star known for his innovative music and personas, including Ziggy Stardust. His career spanned decades, leaving an enduring legacy in the music industry.
Who is David Bowie?
David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, in Brixton, South London, was a groundbreaking rock star renowned for his innovative contributions to music and culture. He gained fame with his iconic 1969 hit "Space Oddity," but it was his 1972 album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" that solidified his status as a pop chameleon. Bowie's artful blend of glam rock and theatricality captivated audiences, with his flamboyant alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, heralding a creative revolution in the music industry. This persona explored themes of identity, sexuality, and the human experience, making Bowie a luminary of the artistic landscape.
Throughout his career, Bowie demonstrated an exceptional ability to evolve artistically, shaping and redefining his music across genres, including glam rock, soul, industrial, and electronic. He produced numerous critically acclaimed albums, such as "Young Americans" and "Let's Dance," while also venturing into acting, starring in films like "The Man Who Fell to Earth" and the cult classic "Labyrinth." Bowie's collaborations with a variety of artists, including John Lennon and Iggy Pop, further showcased his multifaceted talent. Recognized as a visionary, his influence continues to resonate through generations, as musicians and fans alike celebrate his distinct style and groundbreaking artistry.
Early Life and Education
David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, in Brixton, South London, developed an early fascination with music. He began playing the saxophone at just 13 years old, a passion that would shape his future career. His elder half-brother Terry significantly influenced him, introducing Bowie to various musical genres and beat literature. However, Terry's struggle with mental illness and eventual suicide in 1985 deeply affected Bowie, becoming a recurring theme in his music, including the poignant track "Jump They Say."
After completing his education at Bromley Technical High School at the age of 16, Bowie embarked on a career as a commercial artist while simultaneously pursuing music. He formed several bands, including one called Davy Jones and the Lower Third, but initial success was elusive. To distinguish himself from Davy Jones of The Monkees, he adopted the surname "Bowie," inspired by the American pioneer Jim Bowie and his famous knife. This pivotal change marked the beginning of a transformative journey that would redefine his life as a musical icon.
Start of Career: First Hit with "Space Oddity"
David Bowie, born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, began his musical journey in the mid-1960s, exploring various styles while trying to find his unique voice. After struggling with several bands and a solo album that failed to gain traction, Bowie faced a pivotal moment in his career. In 1969, he signed a contract with Mercury Records, leading to the release of his iconic single "Space Oddity." The song, inspired by the science fiction film "2001: A Space Odyssey," caught the public’s imagination, particularly during the Apollo 11 moon landing, which helped propel it to success.
The ethereal quality of "Space Oddity" marked a significant departure from Bowie's earlier works. Combining poignant lyrics and atmospheric melodies, it showcased his talent for crafting narratives that blended personal experience with surreal storytelling. This marked the beginning of Bowie’s ascent in the music industry, establishing him as a unique artist who would continuously redefine his image and sound. "Space Oddity" not only introduced the world to Bowie’s innovative artistry but also planted the seeds for his future personas and groundbreaking albums.
Success and Achievements: Ziggy Stardust and Beyond
David Bowie's transformation into Ziggy Stardust marked a pivotal moment in his career and the landscape of rock music. Released in 1972, the album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" not only catapulted him to superstardom but also introduced a dazzling blend of glam rock and theatricality that captivated audiences worldwide. With an androgynous persona and flamboyant costumes, Bowie broke boundaries around gender and identity, establishing himself as a cultural icon. The character of Ziggy Stardust offered a narrative that intertwined existential themes with the fantastical, making it one of the most influential concepts in popular music history.
Bowie's extensive musical repertoire further solidified his legacy. The early hits "Space Oddity" and “Fame” showcased his ability to reinvent himself and experiment with various musical styles, from glam rock to soul and beyond. He pushed creative limits by collaborating with renowned artists like John Lennon and producers such as Tony Visconti. Albums like "Young Americans" and "Scary Monsters" not only garnered critical acclaim but also showcased Bowie’s aptitude for blending compelling narratives with innovative sound. His acceptance of various genres and continuous evolution ensured that Bowie's work remained relevant for decades, illustrating his profound influence on generations of musicians and fans alike.
Later Career and Collaborations
David Bowie's later career was marked by a series of notable transitions and collaborations that showcased his enduring creativity and adaptability. After experiencing a heart attack in 2004, he took a step back but returned to music with renewed vigor. He collaborated with various artists such as Arcade Fire and actress Scarlett Johansson, who contributed to her album "Anywhere I Lay My Head" in 2008, featuring covers of Tom Waits' songs. These collaborations highlighted Bowie's ability to merge his visionary ideas with the talents of a new generation, ensuring his relevance in an ever-evolving music landscape.
In 2013, David Bowie made a triumphant return to the music scene with the surprise release of "The Next Day," which debuted at number two on the Billboard charts. This album marked a significant comeback for the artist, featuring a collection of innovative tracks that reaffirmed his status as a rock legend. The release of the greatest hits collection "Nothing Has Changed" in 2014, which included the new song "Sue (Or in a Season of Crime)," further solidified his legacy. Bowie's continuous experimentation and willingness to take creative risks were evident in his later works, culminating in the release of "Blackstar" on his 69th birthday, a poignant and enduring reflection of his artistic journey.
Personal Life: Married to Iman, Father of Two
David Bowie was married to supermodel Iman, a relationship that began in the early 1990s and solidified his status as a devoted family man. The couple married on April 24, 1992, and their union was characterized by mutual respect and support. Iman often spoke about how Bowie inspired her in both her personal and professional life, highlighting the influence he had on her career and artistic endeavors. Their marriage was a stable and loving partnership that endured until Bowie's passing in 2016, showcasing a deep bond that transcended the glitz and glamour of their celebrity lifestyles.
Bowie was also a father to two children: Duncan Jones and Alexandria Zahra Jones. His son, Duncan, who was born on May 30, 1971, is a successful filmmaker known for his work on films such as "Moon" and "Source Code." Bowie was known for his protective and guiding nature as a father, often discussing the joy his children brought into his life. Alexandria, born on August 15, 2000, is an emerging talent in her own right and has inherited her father's passion for the arts. Through both his marriage and his role as a father, Bowie cultivated a legacy of love and creativity that lives on in his family.
Net Worth and Earning: Estimated at $230 million
David Bowie's net worth at the time of his death in 2016 was estimated to be around $230 million. This staggering figure reflects not only his long-standing success as a musician but also his ventures in film, art, and innovative financial strategies. Over his lifetime, Bowie released an impressive catalog of 26 studio albums, showcasing his unique talent and versatility that spanned decades and genres. His ability to reinvent himself continuously kept his fan base engaged and his music relevant, allowing him to command significant earnings from both record sales and live performances.
In addition to his musical career, Bowie made headlines with his unique financial approach, notably through the launch of Bowie Bonds in 1997. These financial securities were backed by his music royalties, and they generated $55 million, showcasing his acumen not just as an artist, but as a businessman. Bowie's popularity in popular culture was further evidenced by lucrative merchandise sales, licensing deals, and his iconic status which helped him retain substantial earnings long after his passing. His artistic legacy continues to influence new generations, ensuring that his financial success remains a testament to his enduring impact on music and popular culture.
