30 Facts About Davie

Early Life and Background

David Bowie, born David Robert Jones, was an iconic figure in music, fashion, and culture. His journey from a young boy in London to a global superstar is filled with fascinating details.

1. Born on January 8, 1947, in Brixton, London, Bowie shared his birthday with another music legend, Elvis Presley.
2. His family moved to Bromley when he was six years old, where he later attended Bromley Technical High School.
3. Bowie’s interest in music began at a young age, inspired by artists like Little Richard and Elvis Presley.
4. He learned to play the saxophone at age 12, which became one of his signature instruments.

Rise to Stardom

Bowie's path to fame wasn't instant. It took years of hard work, experimentation, and reinvention.

5. His first single, "Liza Jane," was released in 1964 under the name Davie Jones with the King Bees.
6. To avoid confusion with Davy Jones of The Monkees, he changed his stage name to David Bowie in 1966.
7. Bowie's breakthrough came with the 1969 single "Space Oddity," which coincided with the Apollo 11 moon landing.
8. The album "The Man Who Sold the World" (1970) showcased his shift to a heavier rock sound.

Ziggy Stardust Era

One of Bowie's most famous personas, Ziggy Stardust, catapulted him to international fame.

9. The character Ziggy Stardust was introduced in the 1972 album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars."
10. Ziggy Stardust was a flamboyant, androgynous rock star from outer space, reflecting Bowie's fascination with sci-fi and glam rock.
11. The Ziggy Stardust tour was a massive success, solidifying Bowie’s status as a rock icon.
12. Bowie "retired" Ziggy Stardust in 1973 during a concert at London’s Hammersmith Odeon.

Acting Career

Bowie's talents extended beyond music into acting, where he left a significant mark.

13. His first major film role was in "The Man Who Fell to Earth" (1976), where he played an alien stranded on Earth.
14. Bowie starred in the 1986 fantasy film "Labyrinth," directed by Jim Henson, as Jareth the Goblin King.
15. He appeared in numerous other films, including "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence" (1983) and "The Prestige" (2006).

Personal Life

Bowie's personal life was as intriguing as his professional one, filled with notable relationships and experiences.

16. He married Angela Barnett in 1970, and they had a son, Duncan Jones, in 1971.
17. Bowie and Angela divorced in 1980, and he later married Somali-American model Iman in 1992.
18. Bowie and Iman had a daughter, Alexandria "Lexi" Zahra Jones, born in 2000.
19. He was known for his fluid sexuality, famously declaring himself bisexual in a 1976 interview.

Musical Evolution

Bowie's music constantly evolved, reflecting his ability to adapt and innovate.

20. The 1975 album "Young Americans" marked his foray into soul and funk, a style he dubbed "plastic soul."
21. His Berlin Trilogy, consisting of "Low" (1977), "Heroes" (1977), and "Lodger" (1979), was a collaboration with Brian Eno and explored electronic and ambient music.
22. The 1983 album "Let's Dance" brought Bowie commercial success with hits like "China Girl" and "Modern Love."
23. Bowie formed the band Tin Machine in 1988, which marked a return to a rawer rock sound.

Legacy and Influence

Bowie's impact on music, fashion, and culture is immeasurable, leaving a lasting legacy.

24. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
25. Bowie influenced countless artists, including Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Trent Reznor.
26. His alter egos, such as Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke, challenged traditional gender norms and inspired future generations.
27. Bowie’s final album, "Blackstar," was released just two days before his death on January 10, 2016, and is often seen as his parting gift to fans.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond his public persona, there are many quirky and lesser-known facts about Bowie.

28. Bowie had one permanently dilated pupil, a result of a fight with a friend over a girl when he was 15.
29. He was an accomplished painter and collector of contemporary art.
30. Bowie declined a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2000 and a knighthood in 2003, stating he never intended to accept such honors.

Final Glimpse at Davie

Davie, Florida, is more than just a town; it's a blend of history, culture, and nature. From its Western-themed downtown to the lush parks and nature reserves, Davie offers a unique experience. The town's rich history is evident in landmarks like the Old Davie School Historical Museum. With a strong sense of community, Davie hosts numerous events and festivals that bring residents together. The education system here is top-notch, with Nova Southeastern University being a notable institution. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a friendly community, Davie has something for everyone. So, next time you're in Florida, make sure to visit Davie and explore all it has to offer. It's a place where the past meets the present, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.