David Robert Jones better known as David Bowie, was born on January 8th 1947 in Brixton England. He was a musician, actor, artist, and all around icon. During David’s career he released 26 studio albums and several live albums. To remember him on his birthday, here are David Bowie’s 5 most iconic Detroit moments.
From Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke to the artist, actor, and icon Bowie continues to be an inspiration to hundreds of thousands of humans looking for their other worldly identity. David Bowie left a huge mark on the world and his presence is sorely missed.
Detroit Loves David Bowie
But think about this, you and I managed to live at the same time David Bowie was on Earth. The chances of that are slim. David was an icon in everything he did.
David had iconic moments all over the world. Some of these moments were on stage during live concerts. Others were in movies. He also stole the scene in several TV shows, including Extras. Unforgettable cameo in that one when he makes fun of Ricky Gervais’ character who idolizes him. Can you imagine being ridiculed by the celebrity you admire most in life? Horrifying. David Bowie had massive shows in London. New York City, too. However, he also had some iconic moments right here in Detroit.
When you think of Detroit rockers, you probably don’t think of David Bowie. In fact, it’s pretty likely he doesn’t come to mind. Detroit boasts some big names! You’ve got MC5, Bob Seger, Jack White, and more all from our beloved Detroit. But don’t count David Bowie out! Detroit loves Bowie. He played several of our most-known venues throughout his career.
Narrowing down his biggest moments in Detroit to just 5 was tough! It was no easy task. However, the deed is done! Here are 5 of David Bowie’s most iconic Detroit moments.
A tribute to David Bowie. (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images)
David Bowie’s 5 Most Iconic Detroit Moments
David Bowie Plays First Show in Detroit
On October 8, 1972 Detroit was introduced to Ziggy Stardust. David Bowie brought his Ziggy Stardust Tour to the Fisher Theatre and a city was captivated.
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Bowie's 6 Night Stand at Michigan Palace
David Bowie had an incredble 6 night stand at Michigan Palace on Bagley in Downtown Detroit from October 12-20 1973. Incredible!
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Played Backup for Iggy Pop at the Masonic
March 1977: Rock singers David Bowie, right, and Iggy Pop in Germany. (Photo by Evening Standard/Getty Images)
In 1977 Iggy Pop came home to play at the iconic Masonic Temple. Fans were shocked to see David Bowie playing background on the keyboard. Bowie and Iggy were very close friends. In fact David Bowie was largely credited with recusitating Iggy’s career after the end of the Stooges. The two remained close friends until the end of Bowie’s life.
Bowie's Final Detroit Show
David Bowie would come to play Detroit one final time one day after his 57th birthday on 1/9/04. According to setlist.fm he opened with Rebel Rebel and closed with Ziggy Stardust. Looking at the setlist it looks like he played just about everything anybody would want to hear. 32 songs total on that January night.
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