New York Loves David Bowie
"New York's a go-go and everything tastes right"
It could just be me, but ever since his death in 2016, New York City sure has been emphasizing on David Bowie and his legacy. From the Brooklyn Museum hosting the “David Bowie Is” exhibit for a few months in early 2018 (which by the way, sold more than 180,000 tickets) to dance parties honoring the Starman, New York loves him.
First coming to NYC during the Stonewall riots, David Bowie always cited Lou Reed to be the reason he was so creatively drawn to our dearly beloved city. In 1972, Bowie made his NYC debut as Ziggy Stardust at Carnegie Hall. With his ground and gender breaking style presented, designers based in the city were instantly inspired. It seemed like Bowie was spreading a culture of his own in the already potent Big Apple.
And while the superstar is originally from Southern London, Bowie made NYC his home permanently in 1992 with his wife and model, Iman. However, he stamped the city as his own well before (and obviously, after).
How YOU can be living Bowie’s NYC in 2018:
Take a tour:
The David Bowie Walking Tour takes fans to the places that Bowie loved the most in NYC and spent the most time at. Starting in the West Village, where he spent the majority of the 1970s, through the East Village and lastly in SoHo to see his last residence. The “Regular” walking tour is priced at $49 per person.
Look at some street art:
While the “David Bowie Is” exhibition is long gone, you can still stare at the huge (180 ft, to be exact) mural that looks over the streets. You can go stare at a big Bowie painting on 837 Jersey Ave.
Actually go to the places that Bowie loved to go to…
Generation Records: Located at 210 Thompson St.
Washington Sq. Park: Apparently this was Bowie’s favorite spot to chill and “people watch”
The Strand: flip through new and used books, located at 828 Broadway
The Bitter End: This tiny music venue tucked away on Bleeker St. is homegrounds not only to Bowie but other 60s/70s icons such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Joni Mitchell (to name a few). Now, this could be a great way to see new up and coming artists or even participate in Saturday afternoon open mics! Located at 147 Bleecker St.
Caffe Reggio: After seeing a short gig at the Bitter End, walk down a few blocks to MacDougal street and get some coffee at Cafe Reggio (a place with a legacy of its own).
Some other things you should read:
David Bowie: Invisible New Yorker
For those who missed the “David Bowie Is” exhibit: The Bowie You’ve Never Seen
More on Bowie’s fashion influence