David Bowie

Hello

As I’m sure you’re all aware, David Bowie passed away after a silent 18 month battle with cancer this morning 11/01/16.

To say that I am heartbroken would be the epitome of an understatement.

After thinking of all the different ways to describe Bowie, a maverick is definitely my favourite: ‘an unorthodox or independent-minded person’, ‘nonconformist’, ‘free spirit’, ‘trendsetter’, ‘eccentric’ – all of which describe Bowie in a beautiful, honest manner – I’d like to say that, perhaps, the word was tailored specifically for him.

For as long as I can remember, Bowie has had great influence in my life – I was brought up with his music in my home and his style in my heart. Perhaps I am too young to fully appreciate the work of the Legend, but I refuse to let anyone attempt to knock me for that – after all, I’m lucky enough to have even been alive at the same time as him, even if it was for a mere 18 years! My dad, however, has idolised Bowie since the age of 14, for a solid 30 years of his life he listened to his music and even dressed like him. I’d quite often come downstairs wearing playsuits and jumpsuits and be greeted with ‘alright Ziggy?’ as dad has always said my style is influenced by Bowie; something I take great pride in.

27 studio albums, 9 live albums, 45 compilation albums, 5 EPs, 111 singles, 5 UK number 1’s, 3 soundtracks, 13 video albums and 51 music videos. No one can say that the man wasn’t talented. He was a pioneer of rock! However, Bowie has done so much more than ‘music’. He revolutionised the world in my opinion. If it wasn’t for Bowie, and his ever changing androgynous persona’s, I don’t think our society would be where it stands today in terms of trans/homosexuality. Not only that, but I think he taught us all a valuable lesson: to be yourself – nothing ever stopped him, why should it stop us? Additionally, not only has the music industry as a whole been influenced by Bowie, the makeup and fashion industries have also been largely influenced by his personas – you only have to flick through vogue to see that. 

To anyone who feels as though their life has gone unaffected by Bowie, I believe you are sadly mistaken.

As tribute to Bowie’s death, I’ll be sat here watching one of my all-time favourite films, ‘Labyrinth’ and playing my Hunky Dory and Wild as the Wind vinyls on repeat – after all, Eddie Izzard’s right – we owe him that much.

A huge thank you to Bowie for being one of my greatest inspirations and idols in my youth – he really was one of those people whom I believed to be immortal, yet his music and influence will live forever in the hearts of all who adore him.

Major Tom. Ziggy Stardust. Aladdin Sane. Halloween Jack. The Thin White Duke.

Rest in Peace.

Thanks for reading!

Bethan xx