In light of the sudden and unfortunate passing of the star man himself, we all should take a minute to remember some of the moments that will linger in our heads and our hearts from the life of David Bowie. Yes, there's no doubt Bowie held a special place in the hearts of millions, but above that he redefined music, art, literature, and gender identity/sexuality by combining a tendency to push the limit with exceptional talent and ability. Here are just some of the many things that we loved from Bowie's long, full life:
1. Space Oddity
Released just a few weeks before humans first landed on the moon, "Space Oddity" will always be an iconic jam of America's golden space age, not to mention remembered as one of Bowie's most popular records.
2. Under Pressure
This gem is almost self-explanatory. Not only one of his most meaningful songs, but also one of David's biggest hits. Also, come on, he made this masterpiece with freakin' Queen.
3. His Alter-Egos
photo from www.zeitgestworld.com
Bowie was definitely a man of many faces, and he proved that on many occasions. Whether it be the glam filled and flashy Ziggy Stardust/Starman, or the slicked back and self titled "cool cat," Thin White Duke... he always knew what he was doing, whomever he might be that day.
4. The Man Loved Dancing
"Let's Dance" is revered as one of the dancing man's biggest dance hits, and it's still being played in dance clubs all around the world. David Bowie released a number of timeless hits, but this song in particular just makes you want to "Put on your red shoes and dance the blues."
5. (More) Dancing Into Our Hearts.
David Bowie teamed up with Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones in 1985 to cover a Motown hit and raise money for Live Aid. The "Dancing In The Streets" music video is a prime example of how Bowie could get us dancing while raising money for charity, Bowie inspires us to remember that all we need is music, sweet, sweet music.
6. Sexual/Gender Ambiguity
photo from www.davidbowie.com
As proven multiple times, David Bowie was comfortable with who he was. There were multiple examples of him appearing in androgynous dress and makeup, often adopting a feminine appearance in images and videos alike, such as in the above on his "Hunky Dory" album cover. Among other things, Bowie was known to dressed in heavy glam, effectively struttin' his stuff and inspiring millions of fans worldwide to be comfortable with who they are, no matter what.
7. Intergalactic Story Teller
From "Space Oddity" to "Starman", Bowie never failed to push the limits and entertain millions. Whether he was telling the sad story of a lonely astronaut stranded in space, or about a man living among the stars who just wants the children to boogie; David knew how take us to unexplored places with his music.
8. He Did What Made Him Happy
gif from buzzfeed
He did what millions dreamt of doing... he did what he wanted to do and didn't care what others thought. He wore what he wanted, did what he wanted, and said/sang what he wanted. Truly inspiring, Mr. Bowie.
9. He oozed Class.
photo from wherefashiondares
On stage, he wore slammed up outfits that made him the center of the universe. Off stage, he often channeled his inner old school Hollywood bigwig, and donned a low-tilted hat and a long black coat. In other words, he was a bad ass no matter what he wore.
10.Lazarus
In his final days, David Bowie left a haunting parting gift for his fans. As he began to lose his long-fought, secret battle with cancer, Bowie released his final video on his 69th birthday, just two days before his sudden passing. Used as a carefully planned finale, Lazarus talks intimately to his fans about his impending death. Leaving many to believe that "his death was no different than his life - a work of art."