Not only was David Bowie the Goblin King in the film which defined my childhood, he was truly an icon of creativity and individual expression. He was both a star, and a forward thinker, and used his work as a catalyst for social change and artistry. I am not capable of writing a eulogy worthy of Ziggy Stardust, so I will reflect on his legacy and accomplishments.
Bowie’s music redefined Pop music entirely. During an era of static and unchanging popular music, David Bowie was the driving force for acceleration. While many artists of the 1970’s were trying to revamp the iconic music of the 1960’s, Bowie created music that was true to himself. After all, it was no easy task to live up to the influence of artists like The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles and The Doors, among many others. This struggle, faced by many artists of the 70’s, left little room for imagination.
The language and concepts which Bowie so excellently implemented on his albums Space Oddity and Ziggy Stardust were revolutionary. However, pop was not the only genre he tackled. Bowie’s versatile discography includes funk and soul music, new wave pop, electronic and European inspired styles. Bowie’s music was influential to artists of all genres, particularly punk rock and modern pop.
In addition to inspiring innumerable artists who would succeed him, Bowie worked closely with artists like Iggy Pop and Blondie. He firmly believed in the talent of his fellow musicians and inspired them to create. Bowie frequently visited Iggy Pop after the breakup of The Stooges, while living in Berlin, and helped with the inspiration and production of his solo career. The two artists brought Blondie on tour and supplied the band with performing and musical advice. Both artists attribute his guidance as a major factor in their success.
Bowie’s talent however, included much more than music. He acted in a myriad of films, including The Labyrinth, A View To Kill, The Hunger, and The Man Who Fell To Earth. Additionally Bowie starred in the Browadway musical The Elephant Man and his music was used in many different films.
Often accredited as one of the pioneers of glam rock, Bowie exhibited outlandish and colorful fashion choices. Despite the stigma surrounding flamboyant fashion and behavior, Bowie sported shoulder pads, makeup, and flashy colors, and was often termed as androgynous. He inspired many to become fearless in their choice of dress and to express themselves.
Ziggy also used his musical influence and reputation to speak for those who were not granted a voice. Bowie criticized MTV for not featuring enough black musicians and created music videos which expressed anti-racist sentiments. The entirety of Bowie’s album Tin Man spoke out against fascism, and classism.
Gerard Way once explained that he believed artists who die become a part of the cosmic dust where ideas come from. If this is the case, the future of music looks bright and well dressed. Rest in peace Ziggy, you will be missed.
