Got back in from my run this morning and flicked on my phone. I scanned through Twitter and saw this AP headline:
David Bowie: Dead at 69.
$%^.
Sixty-nine is too young. Especially since his art is still relevant (his new album Blackstar has been received with acclaim.). And to make matters worse, it was cancer that took him. (I especially hate cancer).
$%^.
But I am grateful that as an artist, he left a great legacy. He has twenty-five groundbreaking albums to his name. Enough music videos and duets (Freddie Mercury, Mick Jagger and BING CROSBY!) to keep you busy watching and listening for hours. When I was a kid, I thought Ziggy Stardust was weird. As an adult and as an artist, I realize he was a genius.
To me, Bowie’s legacy is this: Break new ground. Be yourself. Use your gifts. Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself frequently. And leave plenty of art behind.
This is Ground Control to Major Tom
You’ve really made the grade
And the papers want to know whose shirts you wear
Now it’s time to leave the capsule if you dare
“This is Major Tom to Ground Control
I’m stepping through the door
And I’m floating in a most peculiar way
And the stars look very different today