David Bowie interviews

By Mitchell Hart

August 21, 2025

About this collection

## David Bowie: Artistic Evolution and Cultural Commentary David Bowie famously predicted the future impact of the internet in 1999, stating: >I don’t think we’ve even seen the tip of the iceberg. I think the potential of what the internet is going to do to society, both good and bad, is unimaginable. I think we’re actually on the cusp of something exhilarating and terrifying. This collection presents David Bowie through multiple decades of interviews (1983-2003), revealing his evolution from provocative rock icon to reflective elder statesman and wildly accurate predictions about the future of technology and culture. Key insights emerge around Bowie's creative process—his use of alter egos like Ziggy Stardust as vehicles for artistic expression, his collaborative approach with producers like Brian Eno, and his integration of high art concepts with popular music. The interviews show his transition from the experimental 1970s through his commercial 1980s period to his later introspective work, consistently demonstrating intellectual curiosity about art, literature, and social issues. Bowie emerges as both cultural commentator and artistic innovator, someone who used performance and persona not just for entertainment but as tools for examining identity, society, and the nature of reality itself. His discussions reveal a thoughtful artist grappling with authenticity, influence, and the responsibility that comes with cultural impact.

Curated Sources

‘The internet is an alien life form’: how David Bowie created a market for digital music | David Bowie | The Guardian

David Bowie's 1999 album Hours… was the first by a major artist on a major label to be released as a download before physical stores. This move was seen as a significant step forward in the music industry, with Bowie predicting that the internet would change the dynamics of consumption. The album's digital release was met with both excitement and concern from retailers and industry professionals. Despite initial low download sales, Bowie's experimentation paved the way for the future of digital music.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's digital release of Hours… marked a turning point in the music industry's adoption of online distribution.
The experiment highlighted the tension between traditional retailers and the emerging digital landscape.
Bowie's prescience about the internet's impact on society and the music industry has been vindicated over time.

David Bowie's '83 interview criticizing MTV of racism: Read the full transcript - Los Angeles Times

In a 1983 interview with MTV's Mark Goodman, David Bowie criticized the music channel for featuring few black artists, pointing out that they were mostly shown late at night. Goodman defended MTV's practices, citing the need to appeal to a broad audience across different regions. Bowie argued that MTV should be more inclusive and challenge the prevalent racism in American media. The conversation highlighted the lack of diversity on MTV at the time and the differing perspectives on how to address it.

Key Takeaways

The 1983 interview between David Bowie and Mark Goodman reveals the historical lack of representation of black artists on MTV, highlighting a significant issue in the music industry at the time.
Bowie's criticism and Goodman's defense illustrate the complexities of addressing diversity and representation in media, with Bowie pushing for more inclusivity and Goodman citing the challenges of appealing to a broad audience.
The exchange suggests that the issue of racial representation on MTV was not just about the music, but also about the cultural and social context in which it was being consumed, with Bowie emphasizing the importance of challenging prevalent racism in American media.

Bowie - Andrew Eldritch interview

The document contains a transcript of an interview between David Bowie and Andrew Eldritch, discussing Bowie's new album 'Outside', his collaboration with Brian Eno, and his views on art, music, and contemporary culture. Bowie reflects on his career, the changing music landscape, and his approach to creativity. The interview touches on topics such as the role of the artist, the impact of technology, and the relationship between art and commerce. Eldritch challenges Bowie on his artistic decisions and the perceived disconnect between the album's concept and its execution.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's 'Outside' album is an experimental work that blends music and art, reflecting his interest in exploring new forms of creative expression.
The artist emphasizes the importance of process over product, highlighting the value of collaboration and improvisation in his work with Brian Eno.
Bowie's views on contemporary culture suggest a shift towards a more superficial engagement with art and information, driven by the proliferation of mass media and technology.
The interview reveals Bowie's ambivalence towards the commercial aspect of his work, as well as his desire to maintain artistic integrity in the face of changing audience expectations.

David Bowie Interview In Arena Spring/Summer 1993 – Welcome Back Bowie

In this 1993 interview with Tony Parsons, David Bowie reflects on his life, art, and identity, discussing his spiritual explorations, struggles with addiction, and the creation of his iconic persona Ziggy Stardust. He shares insights into his fascination with Nazi symbolism, his experiences in Berlin, and his views on the intersection of sex, romance, and relationships. The conversation also touches on his family history, mental health, and his thoughts on the societal implications of AIDS and the need for continued exploration and openness in human sexuality.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's reflections on his past struggles with addiction and mental health highlight the importance of self-awareness and personal growth.
His experiences with different personas, such as Ziggy Stardust, demonstrate the complex relationship between identity and performance.
Bowie's views on sexuality and relationships underscore the need for openness, exploration, and acceptance in human experience.
The interview provides insight into Bowie's creative process and his ability to evolve as an artist while maintaining a core of imagery and themes.

David Bowie Interview 2003 – Paul Du Noyer | Music Book Author | NME Journalist | In the City: A Celebration of London Music | Liverpool: Wondrous Place | We All Shine On | Music Journalism | John Lennon | Liverpool Music and London Music

The document is an interview with David Bowie conducted in 2003 by Paul Du Noyer for The Word magazine, combined with the author's personal memories of Bowie's career and fandom. It covers Bowie's Reality Tour rehearsal in Poughkeepsie, his thoughts on his career, music, and personal life, including the impact of 9/11 on his songwriting and his experiences as a new father. The interview also touches on Bowie's views on reality, post-modernism, and his spiritual search. The document includes a review of Bowie's Reality album, praising its quality and comparing it to his earlier work, such as Hunky Dory.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's Reality Tour marked a significant moment in his career as it was one of his last substantial interviews and tours before his later years of low media profile.
The Reality album was influenced by Bowie's experiences in post-9/11 New York City and reflects his concerns about the state of the world and his personal growth as a father.
Bowie's songwriting had evolved to become more abstract, but still maintained emotional depth, as seen in songs like 'Never Get Old' and 'Looking For Water'.
Bowie's reflections on his career highlighted his commitment to personal integrity in his work and his ability to reinvent himself throughout his career.
The document provides insight into Bowie's personal life, including his family and his spiritual search, showcasing a more mature and reflective artist.

David Bowie Interview 2002 – Paul Du Noyer | Music Book Author | NME Journalist | In the City: A Celebration of London Music | Liverpool: Wondrous Place | We All Shine On | Music Journalism | John Lennon | Liverpool Music and London Music

In this 2002 interview with Paul Du Noyer, David Bowie reflects on his career, particularly the creation of Ziggy Stardust and its impact on his subsequent work. Bowie discusses his initial intention to create a rock musical, his collaboration with Tony Visconti on the album Heathen, and his experiences with fame, addiction, and artistic reinvention. The conversation covers Bowie's early days, his relationship with Marc Bolan, and his exploration of different musical styles, from glam rock to soul and electronic music. Bowie also shares insights into his songwriting process, his use of personas, and his experiences with the music industry.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's creation of Ziggy Stardust was initially intended as a rock musical, but it evolved into a groundbreaking album that defined his career.
Bowie's collaboration with Tony Visconti on Heathen marked a return to their earlier work together in the 1970s, and reflected Bowie's continued exploration of different musical styles.
Bowie's experiences with fame, addiction, and artistic reinvention had a profound impact on his life and work, influencing his music and persona throughout his career.

David Bowie Interview 1990 – Paul Du Noyer | Music Book Author | NME Journalist | In the City: A Celebration of London Music | Liverpool: Wondrous Place | We All Shine On | Music Journalism | John Lennon | Liverpool Music and London Music

In this 1990 interview with Q Magazine, David Bowie discusses his recent activities, including the Sound + Vision tour, Tin Machine, and the re-release of his back catalogue. He reflects on the nature of fame, the origins of Ziggy Stardust, and his thoughts on rock music's ability to lead or influence society. Bowie also shares his experiences working with Reeves Gabrels and the formation of Tin Machine, and expresses his excitement about the future of rock music. The interview touches on Bowie's views on politics, his songwriting process, and his reluctance to be seen as a moral or political authority.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's decision to embark on the Sound + Vision tour was motivated by a desire to perform his well-known songs 'one last time' and to support the re-release of his back catalogue.
The formation of Tin Machine with Reeves Gabrels marked a new creative direction for Bowie, allowing him to 'struggle again' and push the boundaries of his music.
Bowie reflects on the challenges of maintaining relevance in rock music as an artist in their 40s, questioning whether it is possible to 'carry it off' and remain exciting to younger audiences.
He expresses his skepticism about rock music's ability to provide a 'useful lead' or moral guidance, instead suggesting that it can 'observe very well' and 'articulate' the sentiments of the time.
Bowie's thoughts on fame are ambivalent, recognizing its benefits but also its limitations and the importance of maintaining anonymity and creative freedom.

Labyrinth Within Your Heart - David Bowie Interview July 2002

The document is a transcript of an interview between Charles Wooley and David Bowie on the Australian Current Affairs show '60 Minutes'. The interview covers various aspects of Bowie's life, including his rise to fame, personal struggles with addiction, and his current life as a happily married father. Bowie discusses his new album 'Heathen', his acting career, and his enduring influence on music. He also shares his thoughts on his past excesses, his fear of flying, and his approach to his art. The interview highlights Bowie's transformation into a more down-to-earth person and his continued relevance in the music industry.

Key Takeaways

David Bowie's recovery from addiction and his current life as a family man have brought him a sense of peace and contentment.
Bowie's approach to his art is now centered around pleasing himself, indicating a shift towards personal fulfillment over external validation.
Despite his fear of flying, Bowie has found alternative ways to travel, such as taking the train, showing his ability to adapt to challenges.

David Bowie | Interview | American Masters Digital Archive | PBS

In this interview, David Bowie discusses his relationship and collaboration with Lou Reed and the Velvet Underground. He shares how he was influenced by their music, particularly their use of cacophony and lyrical depth. Bowie talks about his work with Lou Reed on the Transformer album, including songs like 'Walk on the Wild Side' and 'Vicious'. He also reflects on the significance of glam rock and its connection to the avant-garde and androgynous themes. Bowie describes Lou Reed as the 'King of New York' and discusses their shared interests in literature and visual arts. The conversation touches on their first meeting in 1971 and their subsequent collaborations.

Key Takeaways

David Bowie credits the Velvet Underground's early work as a significant influence on his music, particularly in their use of cacophony and lyrical depth.
Bowie's production of Lou Reed's Transformer album was a pivotal moment in Reed's career, with songs like 'Walk on the Wild Side' becoming iconic.
The conversation highlights the transatlantic connection between Bowie and Reed, showcasing their mutual respect and shared artistic interests.
Bowie's description of Lou Reed as the 'King of New York' captures Reed's embodiment of the city's bohemian and intellectual spirit.
The interview provides insight into the development of glam rock, with Bowie identifying it as a fusion of various influences, including the avant-garde and androgynous themes.

David Bowie on Ziggy Stardust, Songs, and Fame

In this 1987 interview with Joe Smith, David Bowie discusses his creation of the iconic character Ziggy Stardust, the theatricality of his performances, and his approach to songwriting and character development. Bowie reflects on his feelings of inadequacy as a rock singer and how he fully embodied the Ziggy Stardust character during the early 1970s. He also talks about the short lifespan of rock characters, the challenges of writing for himself versus others, and the psychological complexities of creating and performing as alter egos. Bowie shares his thoughts on the importance of artistic expression over audience approval and how his background in art influenced his work. The interview provides insights into Bowie's creative process and his perspective on his career as a musician and performer.

Key Takeaways

Bowie's creation of Ziggy Stardust was influenced by sci-fi rock and Japanese theater, and he used this character to explore the limits of being a rock star.
The character of Ziggy Stardust had a short lifespan, and Bowie moved on from it quickly to avoid being typecast.
Bowie found it easier to write for his alter egos, like Ziggy Stardust, than for himself, as it allowed him to distance himself from the songwriting process.
Bowie's artistic background and interest in art played a significant role in shaping his music and performances.
Bowie prioritized artistic expression over audience approval, recognizing that popularity is periodic and fleeting.

David Bowie: The 'Fresh Air' interview : NPR

The document is a transcript of a 2002 interview between Terry Gross and David Bowie, discussing his iconic alter ego Ziggy Stardust and the 50th anniversary reissue of the concert film 'The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars.' Bowie reflects on creating Ziggy Stardust, his inspirations, and the character's impact on his career. He discusses his approach to performance, his experimentation with gender-bending aesthetics, and his thoughts on rock 'n' roll fame. The interview also touches on Bowie's early life, his introduction to music, and his work with other artists.

Key Takeaways

Bowie viewed Ziggy Stardust as a distinct creation with its own life, separate from his personal identity.
He used gender-bending and androgynous aesthetics as a device to create a new kind of rock music experience.
Bowie's approach to performance was more about conceptualizing and realizing a piece of work rather than being a traditional performer.
He stopped creating characters for his albums in 1975, viewing the alter ego aspect as 'ancient history.'
Bowie's music focused on spiritual themes and personal isolation, making it relevant across different age groups.

David Bowie Transcript, 7.9.03: ‘I Am The Man Who Found Velvet Underground!’ | The Bad Penny (beta)

This document is a transcript of an interview with David Bowie discussing his Reality album, released in 2003. Bowie shares his thoughts on the album's production, songwriting, and the music industry's changing landscape. He discusses his influences, including the Velvet Underground, and his experiences working with other artists. The interview also touches on Bowie's views on the rise of live performances and the impact of technology on the music industry. Bowie reflects on his career, mentioning his early adoption of Velvet Underground's music and his desire to work on a Pin-Ups 2 album featuring covers of obscure songs.

Key Takeaways

Bowie emphasizes the importance of live performances in the music industry's future, citing their unique experience and value.
He discusses his collaborative work with Tony Visconti and the band's cohesiveness in the Reality album.
Bowie shares his early influence by the Velvet Underground and his role in introducing their music to a wider audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Bowie's critique of MTV's racism in 1983 connect to his broader artistic philosophy about challenging cultural assumptions, and what parallels exist with his later discussions of art-terrorism and media manipulation?
What specific techniques did Bowie learn from his time with the Lindsay Kemp Mime Company that influenced his approach to creating characters like Ziggy Stardust, and how did this theatrical background shape his recording process with Brian Eno?
How does Bowie's description of the 1980s as a period where both he and Brian Eno felt 'redundant' and 'out of sync' relate to his theories about youth culture adapting to chaos as 'the structure of reality'?
What connections can be drawn between Bowie's early adoption of Velvet Underground's 'cacophony as background noise' and his later collaborative improvisation methods that produced albums like 'Outside'?
How did Bowie's experience of post-war London's 'grey, tragic-looking wasteland' influence both his early songwriting and his later observations about the World Trade Center site resembling his childhood environment?
What relationship exists between Bowie's stated preference for writing for his created characters rather than himself and his collaborative approach with other artists like Lou Reed and Iggy Pop?
How do Bowie's comments about fame getting you 'a seat in restaurants' and little else connect to his artistic philosophy of remaining 'on the periphery' as a writer and observer?
What parallels exist between Bowie's description of Vince Taylor's complete psychological breakdown and his own use of personas as a way to explore extreme states without losing himself?