The world has lost David Bowie

Singer-songwriter David Bowie performs on stage at the Pond 
in Anaheim, California in 2004. Photo credit: Kelly A. Swift

Posted by Robert Kinsler

The world lost David Bowie last night (Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016) after an 18-month battle fighting cancer. He was only 69.

I was fortunate to see David Bowie in concert three times over the years and loved every appearance. I will never forget catching him for the first time at his event-ending appearance at the US Festival at Glen Helen Regional Park (in San Bernardino, California) in late May 1983. His set played out on an especially cold and windy night (daytime temps had been sweltering), but I stayed for the full set and it was amazing to see him perform classics such as "Heroes," "Fashion" and "Rebel Rebel" as well as then-new songs like "Let's Dance." He was so great that when he circled around and performed at Anaheim Stadium later that year (with Madness and the Go-Go's as openers), I went to that concert too! His songs have always pushed the creative envelope and one thing you can truly say isn't no matter the era ('60s through earlier this week with the release of his latest album Blackstar on his 69th birthday (Friday, Jan. 8, 2016), Bowie's songs and recordings sound timeless...

Of course, remembrances are coming in from everywhere:

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of David Bowie. It was an honor and a privilege to release his music to the world."
Columbia Records

"Shocked 2 hear about David. A dear friend & mentor to me. Gave me help when I most needed it. My thoughts r with his family this very sad day."
Peter Frampton

"A huge loss - we're absolutely devastated. #RIPDavidBowie"
The Zombies

"God bless David Bowie - peace and love to all his family."
Ringo Starr


"I grew up listening to and watching the pop genius David Bowie. He was a master of re-invention, who kept getting it right. A huge loss."
British Prime Minister David Cameron

"I feel like the wind has been knocked out of me - I was not ready for this. RIP Bowie."
Al Yankovic

David Bowie performing at Area 2 
Festival in Irvine in 2002.
Photo credit: Kelly A. Swift

“With the passing of David Bowie the world has lost a true artist in every respect; uniquely original, ever expanding and exploring...Daryl and I played with him in 1973 on his first U.S. tour. Off stage he always struck me as warm and engaging. His creativity and musical legacy will live forever.” 
John Oates

“I was saddened to hear the news of David's passing. I've known him for many years and have great respect for his contribution to music and style. John and I first met him when we toured together back in 1973 and I was blown away by his stage persona. I ran into him many times over the years and was also impressed by his intelligence. He was one of a kind and will be missed.” 
Daryl Hall

"David Bowie was truly a Renaissance man and visionary artist with extraordinary talent as a singer, songwriter, performer, actor and producer, and was a musical hero to millions. A GRAMMY^® Award Winner and a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, he is remembered and celebrated today for his audacious approach to pushing creative boundaries and ability to reinvent himself time and time again, changing the course of pop music in the process. David was a true original who influenced so many and his art will live on forever. We offer our sincere condolences to his family, friends, creative collaborators and to all of David’s fans across the globe."
Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy

" 'I wanted to prove the sustaining power of #music.' RIP to the great David Bowie."
NAMM

"Like everyone today we're mourning the passing of a true musical giant and cultural icon. RIP David Bowie."
The Jayhawks

Here is a nice overview and video story on ABC News:
http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/david-bowie-memorable-music-moments/story?id=36212744


Here is coverage on KTLA News:
http://ktla.com/2016/01/10/david-bowie-dies-at-69-after-battle-with-cancer/



Here is coverage in the Sacramento Bee:
http://www.sacbee.com/entertainment/celebrities/article54073790.html

Here is an article that details the events/process that led to the creation of his final album:
http://931jackfm.cbslocal.com/2016/01/11/davie-bowies-producer-confirms-album-was-parting-gift/