A chameleon who innovated and challenged his way through mod culture, glam-rock, the Berlin underground, pop, film, theater and f-f-fashion, David Bowie took androgynous chic to the mainstream, challenging the status quo at every turn. Yesterday we learned the sad news that the Thin White Duke/Ziggy Stardust died peacefully surrounded by his family after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 69.
Last week on his 69th birthday Bowie released his last album, Blackstar, a collaboration with a jazz quintet. The album’s dark, somber tone and shielded lyrics left many wondering if Bowie was bidding the world farewell. Whatever the case, Bowie leaves behind a legacy that will live on forever; one that will continue to inspire outsiders.
The outpouring of shock, grief, appreciation and love has been massive on social media. Those who knew and worked with Bowie—famed producer Brian Eno to Chic’s Nile Rodgers—have offered their heartfelt condolences. Likewise, many in the world of dance/electronic music who worked with him or were influenced by his work are devastated at the icon’s passing. David Bowie’s life was in the public eye but he never really played the part of the quintessential celebrity. And perhaps that’s one of the many reasons he was so loved. He fearlessly showed us the many sides of his personality, inspiring us outsiders and misfits to do the same.
Words cannot express: RIP David Bowie https://t.co/g40zLWl3qq pic.twitter.com/R94E6LMw9C
— Brian Eno (@dark_shark) January 11, 2016
Thank you David, It was a pleasure to call you a friend. You’re an icon, an inspiration and a fearless creator…. https://t.co/FkhbhW2VrE
— THE ALCHEMIST (@MRGOLDIE) January 11, 2016
Young Americans on the radio, a jolt of just how alive, gracious and funky music can be
— ed simons (@eddychemical) January 11, 2016
Dearest David, RIP – Your life changed my life. LOVE FOREVER #NileRodgers #DavidBowieReal shot by Peter Gabriel https://t.co/lPrx66f0OM
— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) January 11, 2016
What a great loss… I was fortunate to work with a genius on “Cat People.” #DavidBowie 💔 pic.twitter.com/uWCTrJSs69
— Giorgio Moroder (@giorgiomoroder) January 11, 2016
I’m at a total loss at the death of Bowie. Art just lost one of its limbs. There’s a deep sadness in me over this. Rest forever in peace.
— Tommie Sunshine (@tommiesunshine) January 11, 2016
everyone will have their own favourite tracks so i’m sharing this joyous happy interview RIP David Bowie – wrote… https://t.co/nojs0KplRY
— King Unique (@kingunique) January 11, 2016
i feel daft as i lie here in bed bawling my eyes out as i never knew the man yet i did
— Luke FM Solomon (@lukesolomon) January 11, 2016
what a sad sad day… RIP bowie 🙁 another amazing talent gone…
— james teej (@jamesteej) January 11, 2016
I never had a hero but Bowie made me dream. Made me think I could be a better man. He was proof that anything was possible.
— Tiga (@ciaotiga) January 11, 2016
There’s something so Bowie about how he exited: with a perfectly timed final number, and closed the curtain while the world applauded.
— Ambivalent (@ambivalent) January 11, 2016
image via Facebook