David Bowie, born David Robert Jones, was a highly influential English artist known for his innovative music and theatrical stage presence. His impact on 20th-century music is profound, particularly his work in the 1970s, which critics and fellow musicians widely praised. Bowie's constant reinvention and striking visual style became hallmarks of his career, solidifying his legacy as a transformative figure in popular music.
David Robert Jones was born in January 1947 in Brixton, London. His mother worked at a cinema, and his father worked for Barnardo's, a children's charity.
David Robert Jones, later known as David Bowie, was born in Brixton, London in January 1947.
Bowie and his family moved to Bickley in 1953.
Bowie's family settled in Sundridge Park in 1955, and he began attending Burnt Ash Junior School.
David Bowie was first impressed by Elvis Presley in 1956 when he witnessed his cousin dancing to "Hound Dog".
Bowie began attending Bromley Technical High School in 1958, where he studied art, music, and design.
Bowie was introduced to modern jazz and received a Grafton saxophone as a gift from his mother in 1961. He began taking lessons from baritone saxophonist Ronnie Ross.
At school in 1962, David Bowie sustained a serious injury to his left eye during a fight with his friend George Underwood. This resulted in multiple surgeries and permanently affected his depth perception and pupil dilation.
David Bowie, at age 15, started his music career in 1962 by forming his first band, the Konrads, playing at local events. He later joined the King Bees and sought management, leading to his first personal management contract.
David Bowie began his professional music career in 1963 after studying art, music, and design.
In November 1964, a 17-year-old David Bowie, then known as Davy Jones, appeared on BBC's "Tonight" to defend the right to have long hair.
In January 1966, after leaving the Lower Third, David Bowie released music under his new stage name, chosen to avoid confusion with Davy Jones of the Monkees. This marked the beginning of his career using the name David Bowie.
David Bowie released his debut album, "David Bowie," in April 1967.
Bowie's first foray into film came in September 1967 with "The Image", a short black-and-white film where he played a ghostly figure. He would later describe the film as "awful".
Influenced by his half-brother, Bowie developed an interest in Buddhism in 1967, even considering becoming a monk before finding success in music.
Bowie's study of dramatic arts under Lindsay Kemp in 1967 influenced his songwriting and performance style, leading to the single "Over the Wall We Go."
Bowie's self-titled debut album, released in 1967, showcased influences from rock and roll icons like Little Richard and Elvis Presley. His theatrical style drew heavily from British musical theatre, particularly the work of Anthony Newley. This emulation, however, did not impress Newley, who reportedly discarded the copy of the album Bowie had gifted him.
Bowie's interest in image "really blossomed", as he put it in 1972, upon meeting dancer Lindsay Kemp in 1967 and joining his dance class. Kemp had a profound impact on Bowie, inspiring his theatrical presence and artistic expression.
In 1967, David Bowie released the novelty record 'The Laughing Gnome.' Although it only gained significant chart success in 1973, it remains a notable part of Bowie's early career.
Bowie secured a walk-on role for the BBC drama series "Theatre 625" in late January 1968, which aired later that year in May.
While participating in a dance scene choreographed by Kemp for a BBC play, Bowie met and began dating dancer Hermione Farthingale in January 1968. Their relationship and subsequent breakup in 1969 deeply affected Bowie, inspiring several songs.
March 1968 marked the end of Bowie's run in the mime Lindsay Kemp's theatrical production "Pierrot in Turquoise", where he performed songs from his debut album.
Between September 1968 and early 1969, Bowie formed the trio Feathers, blending folk music with mime and poetry in their performances.
Bowie participated in BBC recording sessions in 1968. These recordings were later included in the compilation album "Bowie at the Beeb."
Following his work with Feathers, in March 1969, Bowie immersed himself in London's folk scene, co-founding the Beckenham Arts Lab, a hub for artistic expression and a significant influence on his early career.
David Bowie's relationship with Angela Barnett began in April 1969, marking the start of a significant personal and professional partnership. They married a year later.
On July 11, 1969, five days before the Apollo 11 launch, Bowie released "Space Oddity," a song that launched him to fame.
David Bowie originally released "Space Oddity" in July 1969. In 2009, EMI celebrated the 40th anniversary of the song and the moon landing with a public remix contest.
Marking the beginning of a particularly innovative and influential period in his career, 1969 saw the release of David Bowie's self-titled album and the groundbreaking single "Space Oddity," signifying the start of his "Five Years" era.
Mary Finnigan, briefly involved with Bowie in 1969, described his relationship with Angie as a "bisexual fantasy", suggesting they played up their sexual fluidity for publicity.
David Bowie's commercial breakthrough single, "Space Oddity," earned him an Ivor Novello Special Award For Originality in 1969.
Bowie's trio, Feathers, broke up in early 1969.
Bowie's relationship with Farthingale ended in early 1969, deeply affecting him and influencing several of his songs. He attributed the breakup to his own infidelity.
Bowie appeared as a walk-on extra in the 1969 film adaptation of the comic novel "The Virgin Soldiers".
Bowie achieved his first top-five hit in the UK with "Space Oddity" in 1969.
1969 saw the re-release of Bowie's single "Space Oddity", which became his first number-one hit in the UK.
In March 1970, Bowie married Mary Angela Barnett, known as Angie, at Bromley Register Office in London. The marriage was later described by both as one of convenience.
Bowie and Farthingale last saw each other in 1970. Their relationship, though brief, left a lasting impact on Bowie's life and music.
Bowie formed the band Hype in 1970, experimenting with costumes and personas, foreshadowing his later glam rock phase. This period also saw him replacing his manager, leading to legal disputes.
In 1970, Bowie's tracks "Let Me Sleep Beside You" and "Karma Man," recorded in 1967, were released.
In 1970, David Bowie released his third album, The Man Who Sold the World. This album marked a departure from his previous acoustic and folk rock style, introducing a harder rock sound with themes of schizophrenia, paranoia, and delusion.
The stage production of "Pierrot in Turquoise", in which Bowie participated, was adapted into a television film titled "The Looking Glass Murders" in 1970.
In February 1971, David Bowie embarked on a coast-to-coast publicity tour across the US to promote his third album, The Man Who Sold the World. Exploiting his androgynous appearance, Bowie wore a dress during interviews, which was met with approval from critics.
David Bowie's son, Duncan Jones, was born in May 1971. Initially known as Zowie, Duncan would later be raised by Bowie after his divorce from Angie.
David Bowie originally released his song "Changes" in 1971.
In 1971, David Bowie released the album Hunky Dory, which marked a shift towards art pop and melodic pop rock. The album featured light tracks like 'Kooks,' written for his son Duncan Zowie Haywood Jones, who was born on 30 May 1971. The album also included tributes to his influences with songs like 'Song for Bob Dylan' and 'Andy Warhol.'
David Bowie embarked on his inaugural trip to the United States in 1971, an experience later depicted in the biopic "Stardust."
On 10 February 1972, David Bowie launched his Ziggy Stardust stage show at the Toby Jug pub in Tolworth, Kingston upon Thames. The show was hugely popular and catapulted Bowie to stardom, creating a 'cult of Bowie' that had a lasting influence on pop fandom.
In a highly publicized interview with Melody Maker, Bowie declared himself gay in 1972. This declaration, at a time when societal acceptance of homosexuality was far less common, cemented his status as a gay icon.
In 1972, David Bowie's earlier albums The Man Who Sold the World and Space Oddity were re-released, contributing to the growing demand for his back catalogue.
In 1972, David Bowie contributed backing vocals, keyboards, and guitar to Lou Reed's solo breakthrough album Transformer. Bowie also co-produced the album with Mick Ronson, marking a significant collaboration in his career.
In 1972, Bowie spoke about the significant influence Lindsay Kemp had on his interest in image and artistic expression.
David Bowie introduced his alter ego Ziggy Stardust in 1972, achieving widespread popularity with the success of "Starman" and the album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.
Bowie's second album, initially titled "David Bowie" in the UK and "Man of Words/Man of Music" in the US, was re-released internationally as "Space Oddity" in 1972.
Bowie participated in BBC recording sessions in 1972. These recordings were later included in the compilation album "Bowie at the Beeb."
A concert from Bowie's Ziggy Stardust era in 1972 was recorded and later released as a live album in 2008.
In June 1973, David Bowie released the single 'Life on Mars?' from his album Hunky Dory. The song peaked at number three on the UK Singles Chart, contributing to Bowie's growing popularity.
On 3 July 1973, David Bowie dramatically and abruptly retired his Ziggy Stardust persona on stage at London's Hammersmith Odeon. This marked the end of an era for Bowie, who had struggled to separate his on-stage persona from his off-stage life.
In 1973, David Bowie released Aladdin Sane, his first UK number-one album. Described by Bowie as 'Ziggy goes to America,' the album included UK top five singles 'The Jean Genie' and 'Drive-In Saturday.'
The year 1973 marked the culmination of David Bowie's prolific and transformative "Five Years" period, concluding with the albums "Aladdin Sane" and "Pin Ups," which solidified his status as a musical chameleon and cultural icon.
In December 1974, David Bowie's Diamond Dogs Tour visited cities in North America. The tour was choreographed by Toni Basil and featured high-budget theatrical productions. However, it coincided with Bowie's slide into cocaine addiction, resulting in severe physical and emotional problems.
David Bowie recorded the album "The Gouster" in 1974. The album remained unreleased until it was included in a box set decades later.
In 1975, Bowie released "Young Americans", marking a significant shift to a "plastic soul" sound. While commercially successful, it initially alienated some UK fans. The album featured Bowie's first US number one hit, "Fame", a collaboration with John Lennon.
Bowie admitted to feeling "totally, absolutely alone" in 1975, confessing that he had "pretty much abandoned God."
Bowie shifted his style to "plastic soul" in 1975, achieving his first major US success with the hit single "Fame" and the album Young Americans.
Bowie moved to West Berlin in August 1976 to escape the spotlight and combat his drug addiction. He collaborated with Iggy Pop, producing Pop's debut solo album, "The Idiot".
Bowie starred in the cult film The Man Who Fell to Earth and released the album Station to Station in 1976.
Bowie was active in 1976, with live performances and recording sessions taking place. These events contributed to his musical legacy and later posthumous releases.
During the 1976 Isolar Tour, Bowie faced backlash for his pro-fascism comments and a perceived Nazi salute, which he attributed to his drug addiction. These controversies, along with similar remarks from Eric Clapton, sparked the Rock Against Racism movement.
Further solidifying his image as a sexually fluid individual, Bowie stated in a 1976 Playboy interview that he was bisexual, a claim supported by Angie. He acknowledged using his sexuality to his advantage.
In 1976, Bowie relocated to Switzerland, purchasing a chalet near Lake Geneva. This change in environment coincided with a decrease in his cocaine use, allowing him to devote more time to painting, resulting in a number of postmodernist works. Bowie also immersed himself in classical music and literature, even starting work on an autobiography.
In 1976, while in his Thin White Duke persona, Bowie sparked controversy by expressing support for fascism.
Bowie released "Station to Station" in 1976, introducing his new persona, the Thin White Duke. The album blended funk, soul, and electronic influences. This period saw Bowie battling severe cocaine addiction, which heavily influenced the album's creation.
January 1977 saw the release of "Low," the first album in Bowie's Berlin Trilogy. Despite initial resistance from RCA Records, the album, known for its minimalist and experimental sound, became a hit, featuring the single "Sound and Vision".
In October 1977, Bowie retracted his previous pro-fascist statements, attributing them to drug-induced mental instability and declared himself "apolitical."
Bowie's second album in the Berlin Trilogy, "Heroes", was released in 1977. This album incorporated more pop and rock elements, featuring a collaboration with guitarist Robert Fripp. It became another hit, known for its title track.
Bowie's electronic-infused album Low, the first of his Berlin Trilogy collaborations with Brian Eno, was released in 1977.
In May 1978, Bowie's narration of Sergei Prokofiev's "Peter and the Wolf" was released as an album.
Bowie took on the starring role of Prussian officer Paul von Przygodski in the 1978 film "Just a Gigolo". The film, a critical and commercial failure, left Bowie disappointed.
Bowie released the album Lodger, the final installment in his Berlin Trilogy, in 1979.
In 1979, David Bowie released his album "Lodger," the final installment in what he called his "triptych." The album marked a departure from its predecessors, incorporating elements of new wave and world music.
In 1979, the film Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, which incorporated footage from Bowie's final Ziggy show in 1973, premiered. The film was later commercially released in 1983.
After a tumultuous and open marriage, David and Angie Bowie divorced in February 1980. Bowie received custody of their son, Duncan.
Bowie's Broadway debut happened in July 1980 when he took on the challenging role of Joseph Merrick in "The Elephant Man", delivering a performance that earned him critical acclaim.
After months of court proceedings, David Bowie and his wife Angie finalized their divorce in 1980.
By 1980, Bowie's position as a highly influential artist, often compared to the Beatles, was widely recognized.
David Bowie released "Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)" in 1980, featuring the hit single "Ashes to Ashes." The album saw Bowie exploring the New Romantic movement and returning to the character of Major Tom.
Bowie released the hit single "Ashes to Ashes" and the album Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) in 1980.
After a successful run, Bowie's time in the Broadway production of "The Elephant Man" came to an end in January 1981.
Bowie collaborated with Queen on the hit single "Under Pressure" in 1981.
David Bowie and the band Queen released their collaborative single "Under Pressure" in 1981, which became a major hit and Bowie's third UK number-one single.
Bowie released "Cat People (Putting Out Fire)," his collaboration with Giorgio Moroder, in March 1982. The song was featured in Paul Schrader's film "Cat People" and became a minor hit in the US.
Five years after its performance, Bowie's collaboration with Bing Crosby on "Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy" was released as a single in 1982, achieving chart success.
Bowie achieved his greatest commercial success with the album Let's Dance in 1983.
Bowie briefly dated Geeling Ng, a New Zealand model who was featured in his "China Girl" music video, in 1983.
Bowie immersed himself in diverse film roles in 1983. He appeared as a vampire in Tony Scott's "The Hunger," a prisoner of war in "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence," and made a cameo in the comedy "Yellowbeard."
David Bowie achieved significant commercial success with his album "Let's Dance" in 1983. Produced in collaboration with Chic's Nile Rodgers, the album featured hit singles like "Let's Dance," "Modern Love," and "China Girl."
In 1983, Bowie criticized MTV for its lack of diversity, challenging their limited coverage of Black musicians.
In 1983, the film Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, which documented Bowie's final performance as Ziggy in 1973, was commercially released.
In a shift from his earlier stance, Bowie stated in a 1983 interview with Rolling Stone that publicly declaring his bisexuality was his "biggest mistake", attributing it to the influence of the era.
At the 1984 MTV Video Music Awards, David Bowie received two awards, including the first-ever Video Vanguard Award, for his innovative music videos.
In 1984, Bowie released the dance-oriented album "Tonight," featuring collaborations with Iggy Pop and Tina Turner. The album included a notable cover of the Beach Boys' 1966 hit "God Only Knows" and the single "Blue Jean."
The film "Love You till Tuesday," intended to broaden Bowie's appeal, was finally released in 1984 after being shelved for years.
1985 saw Bowie portray hitman Colin in "Into the Night" and decline the role of Max Zorin in the James Bond film "A View to a Kill." He also appeared in "Absolute Beginners" and "Labyrinth."
Bowie collaborated with the Pat Metheny Group on the single "This Is Not America" in 1985. In July of that year, he participated in the Live Aid concert, performing a duet with Mick Jagger on "Dancing in the Street" to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief.
David Bowie starred as Jareth the Goblin King in the movie Labyrinth in 1986.
David Bowie starred in the film "Absolute Beginners" and contributed to the soundtrack with the title track, which became a hit in 1986. He also collaborated on the music for the film "Labyrinth," in which he also had a starring role.
Bowie began dating Melissa Hurley, a dancer who was part of his Glass Spider Tour, in 1987. Their relationship started towards the end of the tour.
David Bowie released the album "Never Let Me Down" in 1987 and later expressed dissatisfaction with the record. He embarked on the 86-concert Glass Spider Tour to support the album, a tour that received mixed reviews for its grandiosity.
Bowie delivered a brief but impactful performance as Pontius Pilate in Martin Scorsese's acclaimed biblical epic "The Last Temptation of Christ" in 1988.
Bowie formed the hard rock band Tin Machine in 1988.
Bowie and Melissa Hurley, a dancer from his Glass Spider Tour, announced their engagement in May 1989. However, they never married, and Bowie broke off the relationship later that year.
Seeking a change after "Tonight" and "Never Let Me Down," Bowie formed the hard rock band Tin Machine in 1989 with Reeves Gabrels and brothers Tony and Hunt Sales, who had played with Bowie in 1977 on Iggy Pop's "Lust for Life." The band's self-titled debut album received mixed reviews.
David Bowie met Iman, a Somali-American model, in Los Angeles in October 1990 after his Sound+Vision Tour.
In October 1990, David Bowie was introduced to Somali-born supermodel Iman by a mutual friend. Bowie later revealed that he knew she was the one immediately and even thought about their future children on the night they met.
Bowie's relationship with Melissa Hurley ended in 1990 during his Sound+Vision Tour. The age difference between them was cited as a significant factor in the breakup.
By the late 1990s, Bowie's artwork began gaining recognition, with one of his paintings selling for $500 at an auction in 1990.
In a pioneering financial move, "Bowie Bonds" were issued in 1997, backed by the future revenues of 25 albums Bowie had recorded before 1990.
Bowie appeared in an episode of the HBO sitcom "Dream On" and starred alongside Rosanna Arquette in "The Linguini Incident" in 1991.
In 1991, Bowie's band, Tin Machine, released their second album, "Tin Machine II." This marked Bowie's first album in two decades to miss the UK top 20, and it faced controversy and censorship due to its original cover art.
In April 1992, Bowie married Iman in a private ceremony in Lausanne. They later solemnized their marriage in June in Florence.
In April 1992, Bowie performed at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, delivering memorable performances of "'Heroes'," "All the Young Dudes," and a duet of "Under Pressure" with Annie Lennox. Four days later, he married Iman in Switzerland. Their plans to relocate to Los Angeles were disrupted by the LA riots.
Bowie's band Tin Machine disbanded in 1992.
In 1992, David Bowie and Iman held a private wedding ceremony. Bowie also knelt on stage at The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert and recited the Lord's Prayer.
In 1992, David Bowie married Iman in Switzerland. This same year, his band, Tin Machine, faced challenges as their second album, "Tin Machine II," failed to chart in the UK top 20 and sparked controversy due to its cover art featuring nude statues. The band disbanded shortly after.
Bowie portrayed the enigmatic FBI agent Phillip Jeffries in David Lynch's "Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me" in 1992. Although initially poorly received, the film has since been reappraised.
American composer Philip Glass adapted Bowie's Berlin Trilogy ("Low," "Heroes," "Lodger") into classical music symphonies in 1992. Glass praised Bowie's ability to create intricate music disguised as simple pieces.
In 1992, Bowie released the single "Black Tie White Noise" addressing the LA riots.
Bowie released the single "Jump They Say" in 1993, which was his last single to enter the Top 10 for two decades until "Where Are We Now?" in 2013.
Bowie's album "Tin Machine," released in 1993, conveyed a strong anti-fascist message.
David Bowie resumed his solo career in 1993.
In 1993, Bowie discussed his experience filming "The Man Who Fell to Earth", admitting his heavy cocaine use at the time impacted his memory and understanding of the movie.
In 1993, Bowie expressed his belief in God but clarified he was not a believer in organized religion. This was also the year he released his album "Black Tie White Noise."
In 1993, Bowie released "Black Tie White Noise," his first solo album since departing from Tin Machine, marking his return to popularity. He later released "The Buddha of Suburbia," an experimental album that initially served as a soundtrack for a BBC adaptation. Though commercially unsuccessful at the time, it later gained critical acclaim.
In September 1995, Bowie embarked on the Outside Tour, a collaborative effort with Nine Inch Nails that received mixed reactions. The tour, featuring Gabrels as guitarist, spanned across Europe and North America.
In 1995, Bowie used one of his self-portraits for the cover of his album "Outside." That same year, he held his first solo art exhibition, titled "New Afro/Pagan and Work: 1975–1995," at The Gallery in Cork Street, London.
In February 1996, Bowie's Outside Tour, a collaborative concert series with Nine Inch Nails, came to an end.
In 1996, Bowie took on the role of his friend Andy Warhol in Julian Schnabel's biopic "Basquiat," a film about artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whom Bowie also considered a friend.
In recognition of his significant influence on the music industry, David Bowie was honored with the Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the 1996 Brit Awards.
David Bowie's significant contributions to rock and roll music were honored in 1996 with his induction into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
David Bowie was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
Bowie portrayed Andy Warhol in the biopic Basquiat in 1996.
Bowie celebrated his 50th birthday in January 1997 with a concert at Madison Square Garden. The event featured guest appearances by musicians such as Lou Reed, Dave Grohl, the Foo Fighters, Robert Smith (The Cure), Billy Corgan (The Smashing Pumpkins), Black Francis (The Pixies), and Sonic Youth.
In February 1997, Bowie's contributions to the music industry were solidified when he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Demonstrating a commitment to the art world, Bowie founded the publishing company 21 Publishing in 1997. Their inaugural publication was "Blimey! – From Bohemia to Britpop: London Art World from Francis Bacon to Damien Hirst" by Matthew Collings.
In 1997, Bowie donated a portion of the proceeds from his 50th birthday concert to Save the Children, reflecting his involvement in philanthropic activities.
The "Bowie Bonds" were issued in 1997, purchased by Prudential Insurance Company of America for US$55 million.
Bowie, in collaboration with Robert Goodale and Ron Roy, launched the internet service provider "BowieNet" in September 1998. The service provided subscribers with exclusive content and internet access.
Filmmaker Michael Moore sought permission to use Bowie's song "Panic in Detroit" for his documentary "The Big One."
Bowie starred in the Spaghetti Western "Il Mio West" (released as "Gunslinger's Revenge" in the U.S. in 2005) in 1998, playing the role of the region's most formidable gunfighter.
In 1998, Bowie reunited with producer Tony Visconti to record "(Safe in This) Sky Life" for "The Rugrats Movie." Although the song was cut from the film, it was later reworked and released. This reunion marked the beginning of more collaborations between Bowie and Visconti.
In 1999, Bowie appeared in the film "Everybody Loves Sunshine" (released as "B.U.S.T.E.D" in the U.S.), hosted episodes of the horror anthology series "The Hunger," and made his sole foray into video games by voicing characters in "Omikron: The Nomad Soul".
In 1999, Bowie ventured into the world of video games, lending his voice and likeness, along with Iman's, to the game "Omikron: The Nomad Soul." The same year, he released his album "Hours," marking a departure from his previous electronic sound.
In a 1999 BBC interview, Bowie declared, "The only thing I buy obsessively and addictively is art," further solidifying his deep connection with the art world.
In recognition of his contributions to the arts, David Bowie was appointed a Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 1999.
In June 2000, almost three decades after his first appearance, Bowie returned to the Glastonbury Festival for a well-received performance.
Bowie and Iman welcomed their daughter, Alexandria "Lexi" Zahra Jones, in August 2000.
In 2000, fellow musicians voted Bowie as the "most influential artist of all time" in an NME poll.
Bowie began working on "Toy" in 2000, a project intended to revisit and remake songs from his early career. However, the album was shelved and remained unreleased for several years.
In 2000, Bowie took on the title role in the film "Mr. Rice's Secret," playing a neighbor to a young boy battling a terminal illness.
In 2000, Bowie reflected on his acting career, expressing a preference for collaborations with arthouse directors and finding more satisfaction in cameos, such as working with Scorsese, over major roles like James Bond.
In 2000, Bowie launched the website "www.bowieart.com," allowing fans to view and purchase artworks from his personal collection. The platform also served as a space for emerging artists to showcase and sell their work.
David Bowie declined the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) honor in 2000, expressing his lack of understanding and connection to the award.
Bowie, a supporter of Tibetan causes, performed at the Tibet House US benefit concert at Carnegie Hall in February 2001.
Following the September 11 attacks, Bowie participated in the Concert for New York City, delivering a poignant performance of Simon & Garfunkel's "America" and "'Heroes'."
Bowie made a memorable cameo as himself in the Ben Stiller comedy "Zoolander" in 2001, participating in a "walk-off" judging scene. He also appeared in Eric Idle's mockumentary "The Rutles 2: Can't Buy Me Lunch" that same year.
David Bowie recorded the album "Toy" in 2001, though it was not officially released until much later.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Bowie's writing extended beyond song lyrics. He contributed essays and forewords to various publications. Notably, he wrote about Jean-Michel Basquiat for the anthology "Writers on Artists," provided a foreword for his wife Iman's book "I Am Iman," and contributed to Q magazine's "The 100 Greatest Rock 'n' Roll Photographs."
In 2002, David Bowie covered 'I Took a Trip on a Gemini Space Ship' on his album Heathen. This song paid tribute to the 'Legendary Stardust Cowboy,' whose record Bowie had received during an earlier US tour.
In 2002, Bowie's song "Safe," a reworked version of a track originally intended for "The Rugrats Movie," was released as the B-side to his single "Everyone Says 'Hi'."
In 2002, Bowie released "Heathen," an album recorded with producer Tony Visconti. This marked a period of renewed collaboration between Bowie and Visconti.
In 2002, Bowie reflected on his relationship with Farthingale, admitting his infidelity led to their break-up and expressing regret for his actions.
In 2002, Bowie clarified his previous statement about his bisexuality declaration being a mistake. He emphasized that it wasn't a mistake in Europe but acknowledged its impact in a more "puritanical" America, where it overshadowed his artistic aspirations.
David Bowie was recognized for his significant cultural impact by being ranked 29th in the BBC's 2002 poll of the "100 Greatest Britons."
Bowie's writing extended to liner notes for various albums, including Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Live at Montreux 1982 & 1985."
Bowie released his album "Heathen" and embarked on the accompanying Heathen Tour, which included a performance at London's Meltdown festival where he also served as artistic director.
Bowie contributed significantly to the 2002 memoir "Moonage Daydream," which chronicled the Ziggy Stardust era. This book was rereleased in 2022.
Bowie appeared as himself in Eric Idle's mockumentary "The Rutles 2: Can't Buy Me Lunch" in 2002.
Bowie performed again at the Tibet House US benefit concert in February 2003, continuing his support for the Tibetan cause.
Bowie released "Reality," his 27th studio album, in 2003. The album was followed by a world tour.
Bowie wrote liner notes for The Spinners' compilation album "The Chrome Collection."
Further demonstrating his unconventional approach to recognition, David Bowie declined a knighthood in 2003, asserting that such honors were not aligned with his life's work.
Bowie's A Reality Tour, in support of his album "Reality," became one of the highest-grossing tours of the year 2004. However, the tour was cut short due to Bowie suffering a heart attack after a performance in Germany in June.
David Bowie retired from touring in 2004.
In 2004, Bowie recorded a duet of his song "Changes" with Butterfly Boucher for the animated film Shrek 2.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine placed David Bowie at number 39 on their list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time," solidifying his position as a musical pioneer and influential figure.
In September 2005, Bowie returned to the stage after a period of reduced musical output, performing with Arcade Fire at Fashion Rocks and the CMJ Music Marathon. He also collaborated with other artists, contributing vocals to TV on the Radio's album and working with Lou Reed on Kashmir's album.
The Spaghetti Western "Il Mio West," in which Bowie starred, was released in the United States under the title "Gunslinger's Revenge" in 2005.
In a 2005 interview, Bowie shared his evolving perspective on the existence of God, describing himself as "almost an atheist."
Recognizing his songwriting prowess and influence on music, David Bowie was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005.
In 2005, Bowie collaborated with rapper Snoop Dogg on a commercial for XM Satellite Radio.
Bowie penned an appreciation piece for Nine Inch Nails in Rolling Stone magazine and wrote an essay for the booklet accompanying Iggy Pop's anthology "A Million in Prizes."
Bowie received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in February 2006. Following this honor, he announced a year-long hiatus from touring and recording.
A 2006 BBC poll ranked Bowie as the fourth greatest living British icon.
Bowie contributed liner notes to the tenth-anniversary reissue of Placebo's debut album.
Bowie played the role of Nikola Tesla in the film The Prestige in 2006.
Bowie portrayed the brilliant but eccentric inventor Nikola Tesla in Christopher Nolan's film "The Prestige" in 2006. He also lent his voice to the animated film "Arthur and the Invisibles" as the villainous Maltazard and made a cameo appearance in Ricky Gervais' comedy series "Extras."
Bowie's internet service provider, BowieNet, ceased operations in 2006.
Bowie curated the 2007 High Line Festival in Manhattan, selecting a diverse range of artists and musicians for the event.
Bowie provided the voice for Lord Royal Highness in the animated television film "SpongeBob's Atlantis SquarePantis" in 2007.
In 2007, Bowie donated to the Jena Six defense fund, citing unequal judicial processes.
The "Bowie Bonds" were liquidated in 2007, returning the rights to the song revenues to Bowie.
In June 2008, a live album from Bowie's Ziggy Stardust era was released. That same year, Bowie collaborated with Scarlett Johansson on her album of Tom Waits covers.
In 2008, Bowie took on the supporting role of Ogilvie, a ruthless venture capitalist, in the film "August."
The "www.bowieart.com" website, which showcased Bowie's art collection and supported emerging artists, closed down in 2008.
Bowie's final film appearance was a cameo as himself in the 2009 teen comedy "Bandslam."
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of "Space Oddity", EMI released the individual tracks from the song's original recording and invited the public to create remixes.
A live album from Bowie's A Reality Tour was released in January 2010.
Bowie wrote liner notes for Neu!'s "Vinyl Box."
In March 2011, Bowie's unreleased album "Toy", recorded in 2001, was leaked online, featuring material intended for the album "Heathen" and previously unheard versions of older songs.
Bowie began secretly recording what would become "The Next Day" in 2011.
Bowie completed the secret recording sessions for his album "The Next Day" in 2012.
On his 66th birthday, Bowie announced his first studio album in a decade, "The Next Day", releasing the single "Where Are We Now?" alongside it. The single quickly topped charts, marking his first Top 10 single in two decades.
In October 2013, Bowie was named the best-dressed Briton in history by a BBC History Magazine poll.
Bowie released "The Next Day" in 2013, which became his fastest-selling album at the time. The music video for the title track sparked controversy due to its religious themes, leading to its temporary removal from YouTube.
Bowie returned from a decade-long hiatus with the release of his album The Next Day in 2013.
David Bowie's exploration of science fiction themes in his music and persona earned him a place in the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2013.
In 2013, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London launched a career retrospective exhibition titled "David Bowie Is," showcasing Bowie's artistry and cultural impact.
Bowie was diagnosed with liver cancer in mid-2014, keeping his illness private. He released the compilation album "Nothing Has Changed" later that year, which included the new song "Sue (Or in a Season of Crime)".
In 2014, Bowie won a Brit Award for British Male Solo Artist, becoming the oldest recipient. His acceptance speech, delivered by Kate Moss, included a remark about the Scottish independence referendum.
Susan Sarandon confirmed in 2014 that she had a sexual relationship with Bowie in 1983 while they filmed "The Hunger", describing him as "extraordinary".
Parlophone began a comprehensive remastering project of David Bowie's extensive music catalogue in 2015, starting with the "Five Years (1969–1973)" box set, ensuring the preservation and continued appreciation of his work.
Throughout 2015, Bowie worked on various projects, including secretly recording his final album, "Blackstar". He also contributed music to the SpongeBob SquarePants musical and wrote the theme song for the TV series "The Last Panthers". His final public appearance was at the opening night of his musical "Lazarus" in December.
Bowie released his final album, "Blackstar", on his 69th birthday, January 8, 2016. He died two days later. The album was critically acclaimed and posthumously recognized as Bowie's intentional farewell to his fans.
David Bowie died from liver cancer on January 10, 2016, in his New York City apartment. He was diagnosed 18 months earlier but kept his condition private.
David Bowie died in January 2016, just two days after his 69th birthday and the release of his final album, Blackstar.
The box set "Who Can I Be Now? (1974–1976)" was released in September 2016, covering Bowie's mid-70s soul phase and including the previously unreleased album "The Gouster" from 1974.
The soundtrack album for Bowie's musical "Lazarus" was released in October 2016, featuring songs from the production.
David Bowie's enduring influence on British culture was acknowledged posthumously with the Brit Icon award in 2016, a testament to his lasting legacy.
Mark Easton of the BBC stated in 2016 that Bowie's androgynous persona and open attitude towards sexuality contributed to a more tolerant environment in Britain, paving the way for wider acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality.
David Bowie released his final album, Blackstar, in 2016, shortly before his death.
By mid-2016, Bowie's personal art collection, which included works by prominent artists such as Damien Hirst, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Henry Moore, was estimated to be worth over £10 million.
After Bowie's death in 2016, Michael Moore shared that, contrary to some perceptions, Bowie had been politically engaged when he granted Moore permission to use his music.
On what would have been Bowie's 70th birthday, January 2017 saw various tributes, including a BBC documentary, a concert in Brixton, and a walking tour.
The EP "No Plan" was released on what would have been Bowie's 70th birthday, January 8, 2017. It features songs recorded during the "Blackstar" sessions and a music video for the title track.
Director Denis Villeneuve revealed his desire to cast Bowie as the lead villain in "Blade Runner 2049" (released in 2017), acknowledging Bowie's influence on the "Blade Runner" aesthetic. Bowie's death led Villeneuve to cast Jared Leto instead. Similarly, David Lynch sought Bowie to reprise his role in "Twin Peaks: The Return," but used archival footage due to Bowie's passing. Interestingly, at Bowie's request, Lynch overdubbed Bowie's original dialogue from "Fire Walk With Me" with another actor's voice, as Bowie was dissatisfied with his previous Cajun accent.
The 59th Annual Grammy Awards in 2017 saw Bowie posthumously awarded all five nominations, marking his first wins in musical categories.
In February 2018, SpaceX launched Elon Musk's Tesla Roadster into space, with Bowie's songs "Space Oddity" and "Life on Mars?" playing on the car's audio system.
In November 2018, Bowie's 2000 Glastonbury Festival performance was released as a live album.
After a successful global tour that began in 2013, the "David Bowie Is" exhibition concluded its run at the Brooklyn Museum in 2018, drawing over two million visitors worldwide and solidifying its legacy as a landmark celebration of Bowie's work.
A series of posthumous live albums, including "Cracked Actor (Live Los Angeles '74)", "Live Nassau Coliseum '76", and "Welcome to the Blackout (Live London '78)", were released in 2017 and 2018.
The biopic "Stardust," starring Johnny Flynn as David Bowie, was announced in January 2019, focusing on Bowie's first trip to the United States in 1971, although the film faced criticism and legal challenges regarding music rights and family approval.
On January 8, 2020, celebrating what would have been Bowie's 73rd birthday, an unreleased version of "The Man Who Sold the World" was released. Additionally, a streaming-only EP, "Is It Any Wonder?", and an album, "ChangesNowBowie", were announced, with the latter being released in November 2020.
In November 2020, the album "ChangesNowBowie" was released on Record Store Day.
Despite facing delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the biopic "Stardust" premiered at the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival, though it received mixed reviews from critics.
Rolling Stone magazine's 2020 revision of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time" list featured several of David Bowie's albums, highlighting their enduring influence and critical acclaim.
September 2021 marked a significant deal between Bowie's estate and Warner Music Group, securing distribution rights for his recordings from 2000 to 2016.
Several of David Bowie's songs were included in Rolling Stone magazine's 2021 updated list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time," further cementing his legacy as a groundbreaking songwriter.
In a significant development in January 2022, Variety reported that Bowie's estate sold his publishing catalog to Warner Chappell Music for an impressive sum exceeding $250 million.
Brett Morgen announced a new David Bowie documentary titled "Moonage Daydream" in May 2022, promising a unique and immersive experience using never-before-seen footage and Bowie's own narration.
David Bowie was recognized as the best-selling vinyl artist of the 21st century as of 2022.
Further cementing his legacy, Sky Arts named David Bowie the most influential artist in Britain over the past five decades in 2022, highlighting his enduring impact on British culture.
In 2022, David Bowie earned the distinction of being the best-selling vinyl artist of the 21st century, reflecting the enduring popularity and resurgence of his music in the vinyl format.
In recognition of his distinctive vocal abilities, David Bowie was included on Rolling Stone's 2023 list of the "200 Greatest Singers of All Time."