Leader of a generation. Pioneer of the music industry. Breaker of barriers. An individual truly dedicated to being unapologetically himself. David Bowie was all of these things and more. Bowie's legendary life came to a sudden and heartbreaking end late Sunday, January 10th, 2016, after an 18-month silent struggle with cancer. The legacy he leaves behind is insurmountable.
Aside from his music, he was known for his unique style, eccentric costumes, and iconic mismatched eyes, which were caused by heterochromia (see the story behind those peepers here). Bowie was a chameleon of sorts, mastering the art of mixing fashion and music and transforming himself, all while creating trends of his own. He effortlessly fused all facets of his personality into the way he expressed himself.
His newest album, Blackstar, was released just days ago on the artist's 69th birthday. David Bowie's producer of many years, Tony Visconti, wrote to Rolling Stone about his passing, saying, "His death was not different from his life — a work of Art. He made Blackstar for us, his parting gift." As Bowie silently battled cancer and came to terms with the ending of his life, inspiration struck. His use of jazzy sax, ghostly vocals, and personal lyrics creates a sound unlike any other.
The haunting title track takes one on a journey through the mind of a star whose shine may be different but nonetheless bright. The music video paired with the track is equally as unique, but what would you expect from the man who never failed to keep his fans and the public guessing. David shot a short movie to help promote the Blackstar album and single in 2014. Visconti lamented, "I don't think he's ever going to play live again."
From heavy rock to doomed pop star Ziggy Stardust to The Man Who Fell To Earth, Bowie's newest album offers listeners a new perspective on the transformations he's made throughout his previous 26 albums, and circles back to the contemporary, ground-breaking music he has always been known for. Blackstar is an extraordinary display of David Bowie's never-ending creativity and ability to captivate his listeners. An artist in the true sense of the word, his multitude of personalities and styles have paved the way for future artists to do what he has always done: be himself.
