David Robert Jones, most commonly known as David Bowie, was a well-loved singer, songwriter, and actor.
Born in South London, Bowie developed an interest in music as a child, eventually studying music, art, and design before starting a professional career as a musician.
With his groundbreaking androgynous fashion and wide-ranging voice, Bowie is one of the most inspiring artists from Britain. His legacy is unmatched and is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
On January 10, 2016, David Bowie’s death due to liver cancer, shook the world. He died two days after the release of his twenty-fifth album, Blackstar, which coincided with his 69th birthday.
Here are some of David Bowie’s most unforgettable quotes that reflect his brilliance, wit, and fearless originality.
Fun Fact: Bowie once declined a royal honor from the Queen—twice!
Famous Bowie Quotes (Most Iconic)
These are the Bowie quotes everyone should know—lines that capture his unique spirit and outlook on life.
We can be heroes, just for one day.
– Sung by Bowie in “Heroes” (1977)
A powerful reminder that courage can change the world—even for a moment.
I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.
– Spoken in his 50th birthday concert, 1997
Bowie’s life motto, inviting us to embrace uncertainty with excitement.
Turn and face the strange.
– Sung by Bowie in “Changes” (1971)
A call to welcome transformation, no matter how daunting.
Bowie On Creativity & Art
Bowie challenged norms and constantly pushed creative boundaries. Here’s his wisdom on being original and daring:
I always had a repulsive need to be something more than human. I felt very puny as a human.
– Interview with Rolling Stone, 1976
Bowie saw creativity as a chance to transcend the ordinary and become something extraordinary.
I’m an instant star. Just add water and stir.
– Interview with Playboy, 1976
A witty take on fame, but also a reminder that creativity can transform in an instant.
The truth is, of course, that there is no journey. We are arriving and departing all at the same time.
– From “Reality” press conference, 2003
He viewed life as a work in progress, always unfolding.
Bowie On Change & Reinvention
Few artists embraced change like Bowie. Here’s how he saw the power of reinvention:
Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes. Turn and face the strange.
– Sung in “Changes” (1971)
A mantra for anyone facing new chapters in life.
I re-invented my image so many times that I’m in denial that I was originally an overweight Korean woman.
– Bowie joking in a 2002 Q magazine interview
Humor aside, Bowie’s point is about breaking free from labels and expectations.
I’m always amazed that people take what I say seriously. I don’t even take what I am seriously.
– Interview with Melody Maker, 1977
A call to not be afraid of self-reinvention and playfulness.
Bowie On Life & Individuality
Bowie championed self-expression and living authentically:
I find only freedom in the realms of eccentricity.
– Interview, 1995
For Bowie, being yourself—no matter how odd—is true liberation.
The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.
– Sung by Bowie in “Nature Boy,” Moulin Rouge! Soundtrack, 2001
He believed in love’s transformative power.
I’m not a prophet or a stone aged man, just a mortal with potential of a superman.
– “Quicksand” (1971)
A reminder that greatness is within all of us.
It’s always time to question what has become standard and established.
– Interview with BBC Radio 1, 2002
He urges us to challenge norms and never settle.
Bowie On Fame & Success
Bowie’s perspective on fame was both self-aware and subversive:
Fame itself… doesn’t really afford you anything more than a good seat in a restaurant.
– Interview with Q Magazine, 1989
A witty reminder that success is about more than recognition.
Fame, what you need you have to borrow.
– Sung by Bowie in “Fame” (1975)
His take on the fleeting, transactional nature of celebrity.
Tomorrow belongs to those who can hear it coming.
– “Heathen” (2002)
Bowie believed that visionaries shape the future.
Bowie On Courage & Facing the Unknown
Many of Bowie’s best quotes are about taking risks and exploring new ground:
If you’re ever sad, just remember the world is 4.543 billion years old and you somehow managed to exist at the same time as David Bowie.
– Widely shared after Bowie’s passing, origin uncertain (attributed to Dean Podestá)
This quote celebrates Bowie’s unique impact—even if not strictly by him, it’s a fitting fan tribute and can be presented with a disclaimer.
Why Bowie’s Words Still Resonate
David Bowie’s quotes aren’t just lyrics or lines—they’re reminders that we all have the power to shape our own identities, challenge the status quo, and embrace the strange and wonderful parts of ourselves. His words continue to inspire generations to live authentically, create boldly, and never stop growing.
