David Bowie’s influences during the 70s
David Bowie’s Influences During the 70s
David Bowie, a legendary musician and cultural icon, had a profound influence on various music genres during the 1970s. This article explores the impact Bowie had on different musical styles, showcasing his versatility and innovative approach to music.
Glam Rock
Bowie’s albums “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars” and “Aladdin Sane” were pivotal in the development of glam rock. He not only contributed to the genre but also transcended it, creating works of art that influenced future generations of rockers.
Folk-Rock
Bowie’s song “Space Oddity” solidified his importance in the folk-rock genre. Additionally, songs on albums like “Hunky Dory” and “The Man Who Sold the World” furthered his impact on the folkie singer-songwriter realm.
Hard Rock
While not considered a metal icon, Bowie’s dark and theatrical tales inspired contemporaries like Ozzy Osbourne and Alice Cooper in the early ’70s. In the ’80s, his influence on glam rock became a touchstone for metal acts like Def Leppard and Guns N’ Roses.
Industrial Rock
Bowie’s impact on industrial rock cannot be understated. Artists like Trent Reznor and Marilyn Manson owe a debt to Bowie for paving the way for their substantial careers.
Grunge
Bowie’s influence extended to the grunge genre as well. Pioneering grunge act Green River covered his song “Queen Bitch,” and Kurt Cobain famously performed Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” on MTV Unplugged.
Electronic Music
Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy, consisting of albums like “Low,” “Heroes,” and “Lodger,” gave electronic music its first major rock crossover. He brought arty electronics to a mainstream audience, influencing future rock and electronic collaborations.
Pop Music
Bowie’s impact on pop music is significant. New Wave and synth-pop artists drew heavily from his albums like “Ziggy Stardust” and “Heroes.” His collaboration with Nile Rodgers on the “Let’s Dance” album set the template for alternative dance music in the following decades.
R&B, Funk, and Hip-Hop
Bowie’s post-Ziggy soul/R&B period had an immediate impact on the R&B scene, and his collaboration with George Clinton on Parliament’s “Mothership Connection” influenced rap and West Coast G-Funk. Bowie’s songs, such as “Fame,” were also sampled in various rap songs.
Punk
While Bowie’s impact on punk music is less clear musically, his outrageous early ’70s fashion influenced the British punk scene. His comfort presenting himself as a detached musical outsider inspired punk musicians who were turned off by mainstream pop stars and fame-hungry rockers.
This article has explored David Bowie’s influences during the 1970s, showcasing his impact on various music genres. From glam rock to electronic music, Bowie’s contributions have shaped the musical landscape and continue to inspire artists to this day.
Sources:
- Billboard: “David Bowie Influenced More Musical Genres Than Any Other Rock Star” (https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/david-bowie-influence-genres-rock-star-6843061/)
- TIME: “David Bowie 1970s: How He Became a Superstar” (https://time.com/4183603/david-bowie-1970s/)
- Music Fans Stack Exchange: “David Bowie’s Influences During the 70s” (https://musicfans.stackexchange.com/questions/2672/david-bowies-influences-during-the-70s)
FAQs
Who were David Bowie’s influences during the 70s?
David Bowie drew inspiration from a wide range of artists and genres during the 70s. Some of his notable influences include Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, Marc Bolan, The Velvet Underground, and German electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk.
How did David Bowie contribute to the development of glam rock?
Bowie played a crucial role in the development of glam rock. His albums “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars” and “Aladdin Sane” showcased his flamboyant and androgynous persona, setting the stage for the glam rock movement. Bowie’s unique blend of theatricality, fashion, and catchy rock music influenced many artists who followed.
Which genres did David Bowie impact with his music during the 70s?
David Bowie’s music had a significant impact on various genres during the 70s. Some of the genres he influenced include folk-rock, hard rock, industrial rock, grunge, electronic music, pop music, R&B, funk, hip-hop, and punk.
How did David Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy contribute to electronic music?
Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy, consisting of the albums “Low,” “Heroes,” and “Lodger,” marked a significant shift in his musical style. These albums incorporated experimental and avant-garde elements, blending them with electronic music. Bowie’s collaboration with Brian Eno and the use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments helped popularize electronic music and influenced future rock and electronic collaborations.
Did David Bowie have an impact on mainstream pop music?
Yes, David Bowie had a substantial impact on mainstream pop music. His albums like “Ziggy Stardust” and “Heroes” influenced the New Wave and synth-pop movements, and his collaboration with Nile Rodgers on the “Let’s Dance” album set the template for alternative dance music in the following decades.
How did David Bowie influence the R&B, funk, and hip-hop scenes?
During his post-Ziggy Stardust period, David Bowie delved into soul, R&B, and funk music. His collaboration with George Clinton on Parliament’s “Mothership Connection” influenced the development of rap and West Coast G-Funk. Bowie’s songs, such as “Fame,” were also sampled in various rap songs, further solidifying his impact on the R&B, funk, and hip-hop scenes.
Did David Bowie have an influence on the punk genre?
While David Bowie’s impact on punk music is less evident musically, his daring and outrageous fashion choices during the early ’70s had a significant influence on the British punk scene. His ability to present himself as a detached musical outsider and challenge mainstream pop star conventions inspired many punk musicians who were disillusioned with the commercial aspects of the music industry.
How did David Bowie’s music resonate with the grunge movement?
David Bowie’s influence extended to the grunge genre. Pioneering grunge act Green River covered his song “Queen Bitch,” and Kurt Cobain famously performed Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” on MTV Unplugged. Bowie’s unique blend of introspective lyrics, unconventional song structures, and artistic integrity resonated with the raw and alternative nature of the grunge movement.