Live Performances by David Bowie
David Bowie - All the Young Dudes Live Performance at Isle of Wight Festival
Isle of Wight Festival
West Wittering, England, United Kingdom
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On August 30, 1970, David Bowie performed "All the Young Dudes" at the Isle of Wight Festival, a pivotal moment in his early career. At this time, Bow... Read Full Description >
On August 30, 1970, David Bowie performed "All the Young Dudes" at the Isle of Wight Festival, a pivotal moment in his early career. At this time, Bowie had recently released his album "The Man Who Sold the World" (1970), which marked a significant shift in his musical style towards a heavier rock sound, leading to his rise as a key figure in glam rock. The performance at the festival showcased Bowie's theatrical stage presence and burgeoning persona, which would become hallmarks of his career. Interestingly, "All the Young Dudes," although closely associated with Bowie, was later famously covered by Mott the Hoople, further solidifying his impact on rock music and the glam scene. This live recording is notable not only for its energy, but also for illustrating the transitional phase of Bowie's artistic evolution during a time when he was beginning to gain prominence in the music industry.
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In November 1971, during the transitional phase of his career, David Bowie was promoting his groundbreaking album "Hunky Dory," which had been release... Read Full Description >
In November 1971, during the transitional phase of his career, David Bowie was promoting his groundbreaking album "Hunky Dory," which had been released just weeks earlier in December 1971. This album featured some of his most iconic tracks, including "Changes," "Oh! You Pretty Things," and "Life on Mars?" By the time of the live performance of "Suffragette City," Bowie was beginning to gain recognition both in the UK and the US, marking the rise of his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. This creative period was significant as it laid the groundwork for his glam rock persona, which would dominate his subsequent work. The live version of "Suffragette City," which showcases Bowie's energetic stage presence, exemplifies this era of experimentation and theatricality in his performances, as he seamlessly merged music and performance art.
David Bowie Live Performance of 'Ziggy Stardust' from Santa Monica
Santa Monica, CA, United States
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In January 1972, David Bowie was on the cusp of a transformative phase in his career, heavily associated with his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. The live ... Read Full Description >
In January 1972, David Bowie was on the cusp of a transformative phase in his career, heavily associated with his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. The live performance captured in Santa Monica showcases Bowie during the height of his glam rock era, shortly after the release of his seminal album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," which came out in June that year. This album was pivotal, propelling him to international fame and featuring iconic tracks like "Starman" and "Suffragette City." Bowie's work during this period was characterized by vibrant theatricality, innovative sound, and complex narratives about identity and sexuality. The Santa Monica concert is notable not just for its music but also for its visual artistry, as Bowie was known for incorporating elaborate costumes and stage design, further establishing his reputation as a cultural icon. This live recording encapsulates the energy and creativity that defined a crucial moment in Bowie's artistic evol
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In early January 1973, David Bowie was experiencing a pivotal moment in his career, following the release of the acclaimed album "Aladdin Sane" in Apr... Read Full Description >
In early January 1973, David Bowie was experiencing a pivotal moment in his career, following the release of the acclaimed album "Aladdin Sane" in April 1973. This live performance of "The Jean Genie" on "Top of the Pops," which aired shortly after its recording on January 3, showcased Bowie at a peak of his artistic evolution, embracing his Ziggy Stardust persona, characterized by flamboyance and theatricality. This period marked a significant increase in Bowie's popularity, driven by the success of singles like "The Jean Genie," which became emblematic of his innovative sound blending rock, glam, and avant-garde elements. Interestingly, this particular performance remained lost for decades before being rediscovered and aired by the BBC in December 2011, encapsulating the enduring legacy of Bowie and his influence on popular culture.
David Bowie - Space Oddity Live at the Marquee Club, London
Marquee Club
London, United Kingdom
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On October 19, 1973, David Bowie performed a live rendition of "Space Oddity" at the Marquee Club in London as part of "The 1980 Floor Show," a televi... Read Full Description >
On October 19, 1973, David Bowie performed a live rendition of "Space Oddity" at the Marquee Club in London as part of "The 1980 Floor Show," a television special that showcased his theatrical and innovative approach to music. This performance came shortly after the release of his critically acclaimed album, "Aladdin Sane," which debuted in April of that year and featured hits such as "The Jean Genie." During this period, Bowie was at the height of his Ziggy Stardust persona, captivating audiences with his unique blend of glam rock and avant-garde theatrics. The live performance emphasized his collaboration with notable musicians, including guitarist Mick Ronson and pianist Mike Garson, who were integral to Bowie's sound during this transformative phase of his career. The distinct visual and musical style presented in this concert underscored Bowie’s commitment to blending music and performance art, securing his status as a cultural icon.
David Bowie Performs 'Young Americans' on Dick Cavett Show
Dick Cavett Show
New York, NY, USA
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On December 4, 1974, David Bowie performed "Young Americans" on the Dick Cavett Show, a period situated between the release of his acclaimed album "Di... Read Full Description >
On December 4, 1974, David Bowie performed "Young Americans" on the Dick Cavett Show, a period situated between the release of his acclaimed album "Diamond Dogs" (1974) and the subsequent "Young Americans" (1975). This performance showcased Bowie during a transformative phase in his career, as he was transitioning from his glam rock roots toward a more soul-influenced sound, reflecting the musical diversity he was exploring. Interestingly, the "Young Americans" album was not just a stylistic shift; it also marked Bowie's first foray into Philadelphia soul, significantly impacting his artistic trajectory. The performance on Cavett's show is notable for its intimate setting and for enabling Bowie to reach a broader American audience, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon during the mid-1970s.
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In 1975, David Bowie was firmly established as a major figure in popular music, riding a wave of success following the release of his acclaimed album ... Read Full Description >
In 1975, David Bowie was firmly established as a major figure in popular music, riding a wave of success following the release of his acclaimed album "Diamond Dogs" in May of that year. The live recording of Bowie performing a medley on "The Cher Show" showcases his innovative style during this period, where he merged rock with elements of soul and funk. This performance occurred shortly after the debut of "Young Americans," released in March 1975, which marked a significant shift in his musical direction towards a more mainstream sound, featuring the hit 'Fame.' Bowie was known for his theatrical performances, and his appearance on a variety show like Cher's highlighted his versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical formats. Additionally, after this period, he would continue to evolve, collaborating with various artists and exploring new genres, making him a dynamic force in the music industry.
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On June 30, 1978, David Bowie performed at Earls Court during the Isolar II World Tour, which was in support of his 1977 album "Heroes." This concert ... Read Full Description >
On June 30, 1978, David Bowie performed at Earls Court during the Isolar II World Tour, which was in support of his 1977 album "Heroes." This concert was part of a series of performances that showcased his innovative blend of music styles and theatrical presentation. The "Heroes" album, which featured the iconic title track, was the second part of the "Berlin Trilogy," produced in collaboration with Brian Eno. The live recording from this concert captures Bowie at a pivotal point in his career, as he was transitioning into a more experimental phase while still enjoying the commercial success of his earlier work. Interestingly, the Isolar II tour demonstrated Bowie's mastery of live performance, with elaborate stage setups and a dynamic repertoire that continued to push the boundaries of rock music. This period marked a significant artistic evolution for Bowie, solidifying his status as a pioneering figure in the music industry.
David Bowie Live | Serious Moonlight Tour | Complete Concert in Sydney
Sydney Showgrounds
Sydney, NSW, Australia
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In November 1983, during the "Serious Moonlight" tour, David Bowie was promoting his album "Let's Dance," which had been released earlier that year. T... Read Full Description >
In November 1983, during the "Serious Moonlight" tour, David Bowie was promoting his album "Let's Dance," which had been released earlier that year. The "Let's Dance" album marked a significant shift in Bowie's career, propelling him into mainstream popularity and featuring hit singles like "Let's Dance," "China Girl," and "Modern Love." The Sydney concert, recorded at the Sydney Showgrounds on November 20, 1983, showcases Bowie's dynamic stage presence and highlights the era's evolving sound with elements of rock and dance music. An interesting fact about this period is that Bowie's collaboration with Nile Rodgers, the co-producer of "Let's Dance," played a crucial role in creating a more accessible and commercially viable sound, ultimately revitalizing Bowie's career and introducing him to a new generation of fans.
David Bowie - Heroes (Live Aid 1985) Performance at Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
London, United Kingdom
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By July 1985, David Bowie was in a notable phase of his career characterized by both resurgence and global recognition. Prior to his performance at Li... Read Full Description >
By July 1985, David Bowie was in a notable phase of his career characterized by both resurgence and global recognition. Prior to his performance at Live Aid, he had released "Tonight" in 1984, which included the hit single "Blue Jean." However, "Tonight" received mixed reviews, leading Bowie to explore a more authentic sound moving forward. His performance at Live Aid is significant, as it not only showcased his iconic status but also highlighted his commitment to social issues, aligning with the event's mission to combat famine in Ethiopia. Bowie delivered a compelling set, performing tracks like "Heroes," which was both a critical and fan favorite. The concert itself reached an audience of millions worldwide, emphasizing Bowie’s role in bridging entertainment with social activism during a crucial time. This performance revitalized his career momentum, setting the stage for his later work in the late 80s and beyond.
David Bowie - Modern Love Performance at Live Aid 1985 in Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
London, United Kingdom
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In 1985, David Bowie was experiencing a resurgence in his popularity and relevance, highlighted by his iconic performance at Live Aid on July 13, 1985... Read Full Description >
In 1985, David Bowie was experiencing a resurgence in his popularity and relevance, highlighted by his iconic performance at Live Aid on July 13, 1985. His live performance of "Modern Love" at Wembley Stadium came just after the release of his critically acclaimed album "Let's Dance" in 1983, which propelled him back into the mainstream spotlight with its massive success. Following this, Bowie released "Tonight" in 1984, which featured more commercial sounds and further solidified his 1980s success. Interestingly, Bowie's participation in Live Aid not only showcased his hits to a global audience but also marked a significant moment in his career as he was one of the few artists to bridge the gap between classic rock and the emerging new wave sound of the time. The event's charitable focus on addressing famine in Ethiopia added a layer of social activism to his performance and reinforced Bowie's reputation as a culturally influential figure throughout his career.
David Bowie - Rebel Rebel Performance at Live Aid 1985 in Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
London, United Kingdom
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In July 1985, David Bowie performed at Live Aid, a monumental charity concert held at Wembley Stadium to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. At t... Read Full Description >
In July 1985, David Bowie performed at Live Aid, a monumental charity concert held at Wembley Stadium to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. At this point in Bowie's career, he had recently released the album "Tonight" in 1984, which had mixed reviews but showcased his continued evolution as an artist. Following "Tonight," Bowie would later release "Never Let Me Down" in 1987. The Live Aid performance was a significant moment, as Bowie was one of the most prominent figures of the era and was celebrated for his innovative contributions to music and culture. During his set, he performed "Rebel Rebel," a song originally from his earlier album "Diamond Dogs," which underscores his lasting impact. Furthermore, his participation in the event brought together a star-studded lineup and demonstrated his ability to engage with global issues through music, solidifying his status as not just an entertainer, but also a humanitarian.
David Bowie - Full Concert at Loreley Festival - Outside Tour 1996
Loreley Festival
Loreley, Germany
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In January 1996, during the Outside Tour, David Bowie was promoting his album "Outside," which was released in September 1993. This album marked a sig... Read Full Description >
In January 1996, during the Outside Tour, David Bowie was promoting his album "Outside," which was released in September 1993. This album marked a significant shift in Bowie's career, as it featured a more experimental sound and themes of art and violence, a narrative driven concept that he hadn't fully explored in prior work. The performance at the Loreley Festival exemplified Bowie's return to the live music scene after a period of relative hiatus, allowing him to re-establish his connection with audiences. Interestingly, the "Outside" era also coincided with his collaboration with Brian Eno, further revitalizing his creative output. This recording captures Bowie at a time when he was blending theatricality with heavy rock influences, showcasing his ongoing evolution as an artist and solidifying his legacy in the ever-changing landscape of music.
David Bowie Live Performance of 'Fame' at Howard Stern’s Birthday Show
Howard Stern’s Birthday Show
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In early 1998, when David Bowie performed "Fame" at Howard Stern's birthday show, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career following his 1993 al... Read Full Description >
In early 1998, when David Bowie performed "Fame" at Howard Stern's birthday show, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career following his 1993 album, "The Buddha of Suburbia," and subsequent releases like "Earthling" (1997). "Earthling" incorporated electronic and jungle influences, showcasing Bowie's willingness to experiment with new sounds. This period marked his return to mainstream visibility, aided by his collaboration with producer and drummer Reeves Gabrels, which rejuvenated his creative output. Bowie's performance of "Fame," originally released in 1975, highlights his enduring legacy and adaptability, as he blended classic hits with contemporary vibes. Additionally, this live appearance was emblematic of his charisma and ability to connect with diverse audiences, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon. Bowie’s willingness to embrace innovative styles in live settings, like at Stern's show, demonstrated his innovative spirit right up to the end of his career.
David Bowie - Full Concert at Glastonbury Festival 2000
Glastonbury Festival
Pilton, England, United Kingdom
David Bowie – The Man Who Sold The World Live at BBC Radio Theatre
BBC Radio Theatre
London, United Kingdom
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In June 2000, David Bowie performed at the BBC Radio Theatre in London, a notable moment in his career as it occurred shortly after the release of his... Read Full Description >
In June 2000, David Bowie performed at the BBC Radio Theatre in London, a notable moment in his career as it occurred shortly after the release of his album "hours..." in October 1999. This album marked a significant return for Bowie, featuring a more introspective and personal tone, reflecting themes of modernity and his struggles with identity. The performance of "The Man Who Sold The World" during this live recording highlights Bowie's ability to revisit and reinterpret his classic hits, showcasing his evolution as an artist while still paying homage to his earlier work. Bowie's collaboration with a talented ensemble of musicians, including Earl Slick and Gail Ann Dorsey, rejuvenates the live experience, indicating his continual relevance in the music scene at the turn of the millennium. Notably, this performance is part of the "Heathen" era, which followed a significant hiatus and experimentation, demonstrating Bowie's enduring creativity and adaptability in a changing music landsc
David Bowie Performs 'Life on Mars' at Glastonbury Festival 2000
Glastonbury Festival
Pilton, England, United Kingdom
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In 2000, David Bowie was enjoying a revitalized phase of his career marked by headlining the prestigious Glastonbury Festival, where he delivered a me... Read Full Description >
In 2000, David Bowie was enjoying a revitalized phase of his career marked by headlining the prestigious Glastonbury Festival, where he delivered a memorable performance of "Life on Mars." This concert came shortly after the release of his album "hours..." in 1999, which showcased a more introspective and personal side of Bowie. The Glastonbury performance offered a nostalgic touch, as "Life on Mars," originally released in 1971, became a staple in his repertoire, blending his early work with his contemporary appeal. Interestingly, this set was part of his broader return to live performance in the late '90s and early 2000s, which reaffirmed his status as a dynamic live artist. Bowie's presence at the festival was significant not only for its musical impact but also for his cultural influence, as he engaged with a new generation of fans while remaining true to his avant-garde roots.
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During the live recording of "China Girl" on January 1, 2002, David Bowie was in a period of reinvigoration in his career marked by a return to the st... Read Full Description >
During the live recording of "China Girl" on January 1, 2002, David Bowie was in a period of reinvigoration in his career marked by a return to the stage after a hiatus. This performance was part of his "Heathen" tour, promoting his album "Heathen," which was released in 2002. This album had been well-received, showcasing Bowie's ongoing ability to adapt to contemporary sounds while retaining his unique artistic vision. Interestingly, "China Girl" originally appeared on his 1983 album "Let’s Dance," and its performance in this live setting reflected Bowie's knack for revitalizing older material. The Paris concert embodied a celebratory atmosphere, bridging the gap between different eras in Bowie's extensive career, underscoring his enduring influence and relevance in the music scene at that time.
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In January 2002, when David Bowie performed "Let's Dance" live in Paris, he was in the midst of his later career, showcasing his enduring appeal and a... Read Full Description >
In January 2002, when David Bowie performed "Let's Dance" live in Paris, he was in the midst of his later career, showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability within the music scene. Leading up to this performance, Bowie had released "Heathen" in 2002, an album marking a return to form after a period of varied experimentation. "Heathen" featured a blend of original tracks and covers, adding depth to his discography and introducing a more reflective tone. The Paris performance highlights Bowie's ability to engage with diverse audiences, even as his musical style evolved over the years. Notably, the live rendition of "Let's Dance," a hit from his 1983 album of the same name, illustrates Bowie's remarkable capacity to reinvigorate past successes while simultaneously exploring new artistic territories. The 2002 concert solidified Bowie's legacy as an influential figure in rock music, continually bridging generational gaps with his performances.
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In January 2002, when David Bowie performed "Ziggy Stardust" live in Paris, he was well into a prolific phase of his career, having experienced variou... Read Full Description >
In January 2002, when David Bowie performed "Ziggy Stardust" live in Paris, he was well into a prolific phase of his career, having experienced various artistic reinventions throughout the decades. Notably, Bowie's previous studio album, "Heathen," was released in 2002, marking a return to form for the artist after the 1999 album "Hours." This live performance of "Ziggy Stardust," a song central to his early 1970s persona as Ziggy Stardust, highlights how Bowie sustained the legacy of his alter egos even years after their initial impact. Interestingly, Bowie's ability to blend old hits with newer material showcased his versatility and enduring relevance in the rock scene. This performance reflects both his nostalgia for his groundbreaking past and his commitment to evolving as an artist, further affirming his iconic status in music history.
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In the early 2000s, David Bowie was experiencing a resurgence in his career, marked by the release of his album "Heathen" in 2002, shortly before the ... Read Full Description >
In the early 2000s, David Bowie was experiencing a resurgence in his career, marked by the release of his album "Heathen" in 2002, shortly before the live performance captured in the video "David Bowie - Heroes (Live)" from January 1, 2002, in Paris. This period is particularly noteworthy as Bowie was embracing new musical influences and had shifted towards a more introspective and mature sound. "Heroes," a classic from his 1977 album of the same name, reflected his enduring legacy and was often performed during his concerts, showcasing both his iconic status and ability to connect with audiences across generations. Interestingly, the live recording comes from a special New Year's Day concert, which adds a celebratory and historical dimension to the performance, as it was one of the significant events of his 2000s era.
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By January 2002, David Bowie was enjoying a renaissance in his career, having emerged from the more experimental phase that characterized his late 199... Read Full Description >
By January 2002, David Bowie was enjoying a renaissance in his career, having emerged from the more experimental phase that characterized his late 1990s work. Prior to this live recording in Berlin, he released the critically acclaimed album *Heathen* in June 2002, which marked a return to a more traditional rock sound and featured themes of spirituality and introspection. The Berlin concert is significant not only as a testament to his enduring popularity but also as part of a series of performances that reflected his collaborative spirit and willingness to embrace new influences. Bowie's time in Berlin during the late 1970s had been pivotal for his creative direction, leading to legendary albums like *Low* and *Heroes*, making this performance especially poignant as it full-circle a special connection to the city and its influence on his artistic evolution. Additionally, Bowie's dynamic stage presence and innovative approach continued to captivate audiences around the globe during th
David Bowie Live by Request: Full Concert Featuring Fame, Changes & More
New York, NY, United States
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In June 2002, during the "Live by Request" special for A&E, David Bowie was promoting his album "Heathen," which was released in 2002. This live perfo... Read Full Description >
In June 2002, during the "Live by Request" special for A&E, David Bowie was promoting his album "Heathen," which was released in 2002. This live performance showcased a blend of his classic hits like "Fame," "Starman," and "Heroes," alongside tracks from "Heathen" itself, including "Slow Burn." At this point in his career, Bowie was experiencing a renaissance, having returned to the spotlight after a decade that included both commercial successes and periods of less visibility. The performance also underscored his versatility and ability to connect with both new and longtime fans. Notably, the event was interactive, featuring calls from viewers, which allowed audiences to participate directly in the concert experience—a rarity for live performances at the time. Additionally, Bowie's commitment to artistic evolution was evident, as he continued to push musical boundaries with his dynamic stage presence and innovative sounds.
David Bowie - Reality Tour Full Concert at Hammersmith Riverside 2003
Hammersmith Riverside Studio
Hammersmith, England, United Kingdom
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In September 2003, during the "Reality Tour," David Bowie performed at Hammersmith Riverside Studio, showcasing his artistic evolution following the r... Read Full Description >
In September 2003, during the "Reality Tour," David Bowie performed at Hammersmith Riverside Studio, showcasing his artistic evolution following the release of his album "Reality" earlier that year. This album marked a return to form for Bowie, featuring a blend of rock and experimental sounds, and received critical acclaim. The live recording from the concert captures the energy and creativity of an artist rejuvenated and fully engaged with his audience. Interestingly, "Reality" was Bowie's first studio album in over a decade that returned to themes of self-reflection and social commentary, a hallmark of his career. The tour itself was notable as it included both classic hits and new material, reflecting Bowie's ability to bridge his extensive catalog, demonstrating why he remained a pivotal figure in the music world. The ensemble supporting Bowie, featuring notable musicians such as Mike Garson, added depth to the live experience, further solidifying his legacy as a dynamic performer
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David Bowie's performance of "Ashes to Ashes" on "Later... with Jools Holland" occurred in 1993, a notable time in his career following the release of... Read Full Description >
David Bowie's performance of "Ashes to Ashes" on "Later... with Jools Holland" occurred in 1993, a notable time in his career following the release of his album "The Buddha of Suburbia" in 1993, which was initially a soundtrack for a BBC television series. This period marked a resurgence for Bowie, as he was experimenting with new musical styles, incorporating elements of electronic and ambient sounds, and collaborating with contemporary artists. "Ashes to Ashes," originally released in 1980, was significant for its introspective lyrics and innovative production, showcasing Bowie's ability to evolve while revisiting past work. The performance exemplified his enduring influence in music, as he had successfully transitioned through various phases of his career, continually reinventing himself and captivating new audiences. The show was also a platform for his eclectic style and performance artistry, confirming his status as a major figure in popular music.
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David Bowie's performance of "Everyone Says Hi" comes from his studio album "Heathen," released in 2002. At the time of this recording, Bowie was expe... Read Full Description >
David Bowie's performance of "Everyone Says Hi" comes from his studio album "Heathen," released in 2002. At the time of this recording, Bowie was experiencing a resurgence in his career, embracing a contemporary sound that resonated with both old fans and a newer audience. "Heathen" marked a significant return to recording after a period of relative quiet and was met with critical acclaim. This album features themes of existentialism and personal introspection, reflecting Bowie's evolving artistry. Notably, Bowie's live performances during this period showcased his vocal prowess and ability to connect with audiences, solidifying his status as an enduring icon in music. His continued innovation in blending different musical styles kept him relevant in the changing landscape of the early 2000s.
Popular Tracks
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David Bowie - Heroes (Live Aid, 1985)
Wembley Stadium July 13, 1985 -
David Bowie - Space Oddity live excellent quality
Marquee Club October 19, 1973 -
David Bowie - Ziggy Stardust - live 1972 (rare footage / 2016 edit)
January 1, 1972 -
Cher, David Bowie - Young Americans Medley (Live on The Cher Show, 1975)
The Cher Show January 1, 1975 -
David Bowie - Modern Love (Live Aid 1985)
Wembley Stadium July 13, 1985 -
David Bowie - Life on Mars (Glastonbury 2000)
Glastonbury Festival June 28, 2000 -
David Bowie - Heroes (Live)
January 1, 2002 -
David Bowie's lost 1973 Top of the Pops performance of The Jean Genie
January 3, 1973 -
David Bowie - Ashes to Ashes (Later Archive)
Date Unknown -
David Bowie- Young Americans
Dick Cavett Show December 4, 1974