David Bowie Retrospective Becomes V&A's Fastest-Selling Event

Bowie Exhibition Smashes Visitor Records
|

An exhibition celebrating David Bowie's career has become the Victoria & Albert Museum's fastest-selling event.

More than 300 objects spanning his 50-year in showbusiness have been brought together for the first time, including hand-written lyrics, costumes, photographs, film, music videos, set designs and album artwork.

The museum in South Kensington, London, has been given unprecedented access to the David Bowie Archive for the exhibition, which opens this weekend and runs until 11 August.

Open Image Modal

It showcases seminal items such as the Ziggy Stardust bodysuits from 1972 designed by Freddie Burretti, music videos such as Boys Keep Swinging and set designs created for the Diamond Dogs tour in 1974.

Never-before-seen personal items such as story boards, Bowie's own sketches, musical scores and diary entries, as well as hand-written set lists and lyrics with be on public show for the first time.

While Bowie himself was not directly involved in the exhibition, curators Victoria Broackes and Geoffrey Marsh trawled through the vast archive to produce the first retrospective of the star's career to date.

The exhibition is already the V&A's fastest selling on pre-sale tickets alone.

A spokeswoman for the museum said: "We have sold over 47,000 tickets for the exhibition. It is the most pre-sale tickets that we have ever recorded for an exhibition."

Three years in the making, it has coincided with The Next Day, Bowie's first number one album since 1993's Black Tie White Noise, although this was not planned.

The exhibition features 60 stage costumes, including Kansai Yamamoto's designs for the Aladdin Sane tour of 1973 and a Union Jack coat designed by Bowie and Alexander McQueen for the 1997 Earthling Album cover.

In January, Bowie released the surprise single Where Are We Now? to coincide with his 66th birthday.

A critically acclaimed video was released for the second single, The Stars (Are Out Tonight), co-starring English actress Tilda Swinton.

His new album, The Next Day, went straight to number one on iTunes when it was released.

'David Bowie Is' Exhibition, Victoria & Albert Museum
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(01 of44)
Open Image Modal
The 'Tokyo-Pop' bodysuit worn by musician and actor David Bowie on the 'Aladdin Sane' tour is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(02 of44)
Open Image Modal
The 'Starman' costume from David Bowie's appearance on 'Top of the Pops' in 1972 is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(03 of44)
Open Image Modal
A 'tyre-print' suit, designed by Alexander McQueen and worn by musician and actor David Bowie, is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(04 of44)
Open Image Modal
A selection of costumes and outfits worn by musician and actor David Bowie are displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(05 of44)
Open Image Modal
An outfit worn by musician David Bowie is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(06 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie(07 of44)
Open Image Modal
A cobweb costume with fake hands that David Bowie appeared on television with, is photographed as part of a retrospective Bowie exhibition, entitled David Bowie Is, at the V&A Museum in west London, Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2013, that features 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.(Photo by Joel Ryan/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(08 of44)
Open Image Modal
A selection of costumes and outfits worn by musician and actor David Bowie are displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(09 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(10 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: David Bowies lightning bolt logo is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(11 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A television display plays David Bowie music videos at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(12 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(13 of44)
Open Image Modal
A Union Jack coat designed by Alexander McQueen and worn by musician David Bowie is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(14 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A selection of David Bowie photographs is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(15 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: David Bowies lightning bolt logo is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(16 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: David Bowies' 'Starman' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(17 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A selection of David Bowies' costumes are displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(18 of44)
Open Image Modal
A selection of costumes and outfits worn by musician and actor David Bowie are displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(19 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A selection of David Bowies' costumes are displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(20 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: A selection of David Bowies' costumes are displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(21 of44)
Open Image Modal
A selection of costumes and outfits worn by musician and actor David Bowie are displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(22 of44)
Open Image Modal
The 'Starman' outfit from David Bowie's appearance on 'Top of the Pops' in 1972 is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(23 of44)
Open Image Modal
A suit from the 'Diamond Dogs' tour worn by musician and actor David Bowie is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(24 of44)
Open Image Modal
The 'Starman' outfit from David Bowie's appearance on 'Top of the Pops' in 1972 is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(25 of44)
Open Image Modal
A selection of costumes and outfits worn by musician and actor David Bowie are displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
BRITAIN-ART-MUSIC-BOWIE(26 of44)
Open Image Modal
An outfit worn by musician David Bowie is displayed at the 'David Bowie is' exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) museum in central London on March 20, 2013. Running March 23 to August 11, the exhibition features more than 300 objects that include handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments. AFP PHOTO/Leon Neal (Photo credit should read LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(27 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(28 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(29 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(30 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(31 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(32 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(33 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(34 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
David Bowie(35 of44)
Open Image Modal
An outfit David Bowie wore on stage as Ziggy Stardust is photographed as part of a retrospective Bowie exhibition, entitled David Bowie Is, at the V&A Museum in west London, Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2013, that features 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.(Photo by Joel Ryan/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
David Bowie(36 of44)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie appears on a giant screen with various costumes he performed in, as part of a retrospective David Bowie exhibition, entitled David Bowie Is, at the V&A Museum in west London, Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2013, that features 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.(Photo by Joel Ryan/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(37 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
David Bowie(38 of44)
Open Image Modal
The Alexander McQueen tyre-print suit which David Bowie wore to promote the album' Outside', is photographed as part of a retrospective David Bowie exhibition, entitled David Bowie Is, at the V&A Museum in west London, Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2013, that features 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.(Photo by Joel Ryan/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(39 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
Bowie exhibition at the V&A(40 of44)
Open Image Modal
A preview of the David Bowie Exhibition at the V&A Museum in London which has become the museums fastest selling event. (credit:PA)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(41 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(42 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie Is - Private View - Photocall(43 of44)
Open Image Modal
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 20: One of David Bowies' costumes is displayed at the 'David Bowie Is' exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum on March 20, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
David Bowie(44 of44)
Open Image Modal
A photographer is seen taking pictures of a retrospective David Bowie exhibition, entitled David Bowie Is, depicting Bowie's move from surburbia to soho, along with his Harptone acoustic guitar, at the V&A Museum in west London, Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2013. The exhibition features 300 objects including handwritten lyrics, original costumes, fashion, photography, film, music videos, set designs and Bowie's own instruments.(Photo by Joel Ryan/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
David Bowie Through The Years
"Lou Reed New York" At The Gallery At Hermes(01 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: David Bowie attends the opening of Lou Reed NY photography exhibit at the Gallery at Hermes on January 19, 2006 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Vanity Fair 2007 Tribeca Film Festival Party(02 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - APRIL 24: Singer David Bowie attends the Vanity Fair 2007 Tribeca Film Festival Party at the Courthouse on April 24, 2007 in New York City. (Photo by Peter Kramer/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) (credit:Getty Images)
Vanity Fair 2007 Tribeca Film Festival Party(03 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - APRIL 24: Singer David Bowie attends the Vanity Fair 2007 Tribeca Film Festival Party at the Courthouse on April 24, 2007 in New York City. (Photo by Peter Kramer/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) (credit:Getty Images)
The Metropolitan Museum Of Art Costume Institute Annual Gala - Arrivals(04 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - MAY 05: Musician David Bowie arrives to the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala, Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Premiere Of "Moon" At The 2009 Tribeca Film Festival(05 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - APRIL 30: Model Iman and musician David Bowie attend the premiere of 'Moon' during the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center on April 30, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) (credit:Getty Images)
Premiere Of "Moon" At The 2009 Tribeca Film Festival(06 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - APRIL 30: Musician David Bowie attends the premiere of 'Moon' during the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center on April 30, 2009 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival) (credit:Getty Images)
2010 CFDA Fashion Awards - Cocktails(07 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - JUNE 07: Model Iman (L) and musician David Bowie attend the 2010 CFDA Fashion Awards at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center on June 7, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Jeff Beck Commemorates Les Paul's 95th Birthday - Day 1(08 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE; PREMIUM RATES APPLY) Musicians Brian Setzer (L) and David Bowie attend Les Paul's 95th Birthday with Special Intimate Performance at Iridium Jazz Club on June 8, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for Gibson) (credit:Getty Images)
Jeff Beck Commemorates Les Paul's 95th Birthday - Day 1(09 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE; PREMIUM RATES APPLY) Musicians David Bowie (L) and Jeff Beck attend Les Paul's 95th Birthday with Special Intimate Performance at Iridium Jazz Club on June 8, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for Gibson) (credit:Getty Images)
Jeff Beck Commemorates Les Paul's 95th Birthday - Day 1(10 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK - JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE; PREMIUM RATES APPLY) Musicians David Bowie (L) and Jeff Beck attend Les Paul's 95th Birthday with Special Intimate Performance at Iridium Jazz Club on June 8, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for Gibson) (credit:Getty Images)
Katharina Harf Hosts DKMS' 5th Annual Gala: Linked Against Leukemia Honoring Rihanna & Michael Clinton At Cipriani Wall Street(11 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28: Musician David Bowie and supermodel Iman attend the DKMS' 5th Annual Gala: Linked Against Leukemia honoring Rihanna & Michael Clinton hosted by Katharina Harf at Cipriani Wall Street on April 28, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images for DKMS) (credit:Getty Images)
Katharina Harf Hosts DKMS' 5th Annual Gala: Linked Against Leukemia Honoring Rihanna & Michael Clinton At Cipriani Wall Street(12 of84)
Open Image Modal
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 28: Musician David Bowie and supermodel Iman attend the DKMS' 5th Annual Gala: Linked Against Leukemia honoring Rihanna & Michael Clinton hosted by Katharina Harf at Cipriani Wall Street on April 28, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images for DKMS) (credit:Getty Images)
Serpentine Party - Bowie and Iman(13 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and Iman arriving for the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in Hyde Park. The annual fund-raiser is being held on the gallery's lawn in a glass and steel pavilion designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito and Arup. (credit:PA)
Serpentine Party - Bowie and Iman(14 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and Iman arriving for the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in Hyde Park. The annual fund-raiser is being held on the gallery's lawn in a glass and steel pavilion designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito and Arup. (credit:PA)
Serpentine Gallery Party - David Bowie & Iman(15 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie & wife Iman arriving for the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in Hyde Park. The annual fund-raiser is being held on the gallery's lawn in a glass and steel pavilion designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito and Arup. (credit:PA)
Serpentine Party - Bowie and Iman(16 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and Iman arriving for the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in Hyde Park. The annual fund-raiser is being held on the gallery's lawn in a glass and steel pavilion designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito and Arup. (credit:PA)
David Bowie concert(17 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie performs on stage at the relaunch of the Carling Apollo, Hammersmith, in west London. (credit:PA)
David Bowie concert(18 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie performs on stage at the relaunch of the Carling Apollo, Hammersmith, in west London. (credit:PA)
David Bowie concert(19 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie performs on stage at the relaunch of the Carling Apollo, Hammersmith, in west London. (credit:PA)
David Bowie concert(20 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie performs on stage at the relaunch of the Carling Apollo, Hammersmith, in west London. (credit:PA)
Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Awards - David Bowie(21 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie arriving at the Hotel Inter-Continental, London for the Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Awards, honouring songwriting and performance. (credit:PA)
David Bowie - Silver Clef Awards(22 of84)
Open Image Modal
Singer David Bowie arriving at the Hotel Inter-Continental, London for the Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Awards, honouring songwriting and performance. PA photo: Stewart Griffiths 04/09/02 : Music legend David Bowie capped his comeback to cool with a special achievement prize at a top men's magazine awards. The 55-year-old star, who has been a huge influence on generations of musicians, was rewarded with the title at the GQ awards in London last night. David Beckham whose second son Romeo was born on Sunday was named top sportsman at the bash in the Natural History Museum. He last won the prize in 1999. (credit:PA)
Glastonbury Festival Bowie (23 of84)
Open Image Modal
Legendry David Bowie performs at Glastonbury Festival at Pilton for the final day of the annual music event. The first time he performed at the music Festival was back in 1971. (credit:PA)
Glastonury Festival Bowie (24 of84)
Open Image Modal
Legendry David Bowie performs at Glastonbury Festival at Pilton for the final day of the annual music event. The first time he performed at the music Festival was back in 1971. (credit:PA)
Glastonbury Festival Bowie (25 of84)
Open Image Modal
Legendry David Bowie performs at Glastonbury Festival at Pilton for the final day of the annual music event. The first time he performed at the music Festival was back in 1971. (credit:PA)
Glastonbury David Bowie (26 of84)
Open Image Modal
Legendry David Bowie performs at Glastonbury Festival at Pilton for the final day of the annual music event. The first time he performed at the music Festival was back in 1971. (credit:PA)
DIANA AND BOWIE(27 of84)
Open Image Modal
The Princess of Wales, Patron of the National Aids Trust, shakes hands with pop superstar David Bowie backstage at Wembley Arena before the Concert of Hope to mark World Aids Day. Also pictured next to Bowie are Mick Hucknall and George Michael. (credit:PA)
David Bowie Isle Of Wight Festival(28 of84)
Open Image Modal
EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO MERCHANDISING. David Bowie performs live on stage at the Nokia Isle Of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport, Isle of Wight. (credit:PA)
David Bowie Isle Of Wight Festival(29 of84)
Open Image Modal
EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO MERCHANDISING. David Bowie performs live on stage at the Nokia Isle Of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport, Isle of Wight. (credit:PA)
David Bowie - The Nokia Isle of Wight Music Festival(30 of84)
Open Image Modal
EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO MERCHANDISING. David Bowie performs live on stage at the Nokia Isle Of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport, Isle of Wight. (credit:PA)
CTK David Bowie shortens Prague concert due to shoulder pain(31 of84)
Open Image Modal
British singer David Bowie seen performing in Prague on June 23rd, 2004. Bowie was forced to cut short his Prague concert due to what appeared to be a trapped nerve in his shoulder. The singer performed for an hour before taking a short break after complaining of pain in the shoulder. He returned to sing two last songs clutching his shoulder in obvious pain. Then he excused himself to the audience and left the set. (credit:PA)
David Bowie - The Nokia Isle of Wight Music Festival(32 of84)
Open Image Modal
EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO MERCHANDISING. David Bowie performs live on stage at the Nokia Isle Of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport, Isle of Wight. (credit:PA)
CTK David Bowie shortens Prague concert due to shoulder pain(33 of84)
Open Image Modal
British singer David Bowie seen performing in Prague on June 23rd, 2004. Bowie was forced to cut short his Prague concert due to what appeared to be a trapped nerve in his shoulder. The singer performed for an hour before taking a short break after complaining of pain in the shoulder. He returned to sing two last songs clutching his shoulder in obvious pain. Then he excused himself to the audience and left the set. (credit:PA)
David Bowie/Hours(34 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie, who released his 23rd solo album 'Hours' at the Virgin Megastore in Oxford Street. (credit:PA)
David Bowie/Hours(35 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie, who released his 23rd solo album 'Hours' at the Virgin Megastore in Oxford Street. (credit:PA)
NetAid /Bowie (36 of84)
Open Image Modal
This picture can only be used in conjunction with editorial on NetAid. David Bowie performs on stage at the charity NetAid concert, at Wembley Stadium. (credit:PA)
David Bowie/Hours(37 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie, who released his 23rd solo album 'Hours' at the Virgin Megastore in Oxford Street. (credit:PA)
Showbiz/Bowie filer(38 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and his wife, Iman : Bowie became a father for the second time today when his wife Iman gave birth to a girl, called Alexandria Zahra Jones. (credit:PA)
David Bowie UK tour first night.(39 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock legend David Bowie opens his set at Wembley Arena, at the start of his UK tour. David Bowie was born on 8 January 1947. Pop Star David Bowie, who has leapt to the top of the pop star wealth charts with a personal fortune of more than half a billion pounds. Partly as a result of his decision to take control of his purse strings and invest much of his fortune overseas to avoid crippling tax demands, Bowie has surged ahead of stars like Sir Paul McCartney in the cash stakes. Even more crucially, Bowie, who is worth a total of 550 million, is one of the few international pop stars who owns all the rights to his songs. Details of the sheer extent and source of 50-year-old Bowie's wealth have been unearthed for the first time by Business Age Magazine. (credit:PA)
David Bowie - Reality Tour - Manchester(40 of84)
Open Image Modal
Singer David Bowie performs live in concert as part of The Reality Tour at Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester. (credit:PA)
David Bowie - The Reality Tour - Manchester Evening News Arena, Manchester(41 of84)
Open Image Modal
Singer David Bowie performs live in concert as part of The Reality Tour at Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester. (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE Q CLUB IN BIRMINGHAM 1997(42 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Q Club in Birmingham (credit:PA)
GQ Awards - Bowie, Travis,McCartney(43 of84)
Open Image Modal
Fran Healy of Travis (L) with Stella McCartney and David Bowie during the GQ Men of the Year Awards at the Natural History Museum in London. (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(44 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(45 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(46 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(47 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(48 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE Q CLUB IN BIRMINGHAM 1997(49 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Q Club in Birmingham (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(50 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(51 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE IN CONCERT AT THE BIRMINGHAM NEC ARENA(52 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie in concert at the Birmingham NEC Arena (credit:PA)
Live Aid Concert - Wembley Stadium(53 of84)
Open Image Modal
Bono, Paul McCartney and Freddie Mercury were among pop stars to join in Live Aid. (credit:PA)
David Bowie & family(54 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock star David Bowie, his wife Angie and their son Zowie. (credit:PA)
Bowie and Rome.(55 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and Sydne Rome who stars opposite him in his latest film "Just a Gigolo". (credit:PA)
Bowie receives six discs.(56 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie at Rules Restaurant after receiving a presentation of six discs from RCA Records to mark the occasion of having six albums in the charts in 1973. (credit:PA)
Entertainment(57 of84)
Open Image Modal
(l-r) Ringo Starr with David Bowie at the Cafe Royal (credit:PA)
David Bowie(58 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock superstar David Bowie who shot to fame in the early seventies with his alter ego album, The Rise and Fall Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars. He went on to combine singing with a successful acting career, making his debut in 1976 with The Man Who Fell to Earth (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie Party - Cafe Royal(59 of84)
Open Image Modal
Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones and Angela Bowie at the Cafe Royal (credit:PA)
David Bowie(60 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie (credit:PA)
David Bowie Ziggy Stardust(61 of84)
Open Image Modal
6th JUNE: On this day in 1972 David Bowie released his album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spider from Mars." Singer David Bowie at the premiere of 'Live and Let Die', Odeon Leicester Square, London. (credit:PA)
DAVID BOWIE.(62 of84)
Open Image Modal
DAVID BOWIE. (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie - Wembley(63 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie on stage at a concert at Wembley stadium (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie - 1973(64 of84)
Open Image Modal
Solo artist David Bowie with his gold disc. (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie - 1970(65 of84)
Open Image Modal
British singer David Bowie. (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie(66 of84)
Open Image Modal
Pop star David Bowie, circa 1974 (credit:PA)
Music - David Bowie(67 of84)
Open Image Modal
Pop star David Bowie (l) and wife Angela Bowie, circa 1974 (credit:PA)
British Entertainment - Film - David Bowie - London - 1979(68 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and Viv Lyn outside the Cafe Royal, London for the pre-premiere party for his new film "Just a Gigolo" (credit:PA)
British Entertainment - Music - Pop Music - David Bowie - Cafe Royal - London - 1973(69 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie (right) and his wife Angie arriving at London's Cafe Royal for Bowie's legendary "Last Supper" party to say farewell to 'Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars' who gave their last ever show the night before. (credit:PA)
Entertainment - Music - Mick Jagger - Cafe Royal - London - 1973(70 of84)
Open Image Modal
Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones and his wife Bianca arrive at the 'retirement' party for David Bowie's "Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" (credit:PA)
British Entertainment - Music - Pop Music - David Bowie - Cafe Royal - London - 1973(71 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie and friends, including Scottish singer Lulu, Ringo Starr (left) and Cat Stevens (right centre) at Bowie's famous 'Last Supper' party at London's Cafe Royal, to commemorate the last show ever done by 'Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' which had taken place at the Hammersmith Odeon the day before. (credit:PA)
Film Premiere of "The Man Who Fell To Earth" - Odeon Leicester Square - London - 1976(72 of84)
Open Image Modal
A 'David Bowie look-a-like' attends the premiere of Bowie's first feature film. (credit:PA)
Music - Live Aid Concert - Wembley Stadium - London(73 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie with his two backing singers performing at Live Aid. (credit:PA)
Music - Celebrity Arrival - 1976(74 of84)
Open Image Modal
Minus helmets, policemen link arms to control some of the 500 fans of super star David Bowieon his arrival at Victoria Station.Bowie has returned home to England after two years in America, during which he starred in the film "The Man who Fell to Earth". (credit:PA)
Film Premiere of "The Man Who Fell To Earth" - Odeon Leicester Square - London - 1976(75 of84)
Open Image Modal
Lady Falkender, the Prime Minister's personal secretary arriving at the Leicester Square Theatre for the premiere of the sci-fi film "The Man Who Fell To Erath," which stars Ameican actress Candy Clark and British pop star David Bowie. (credit:PA)
Bowie at Glastonbury(76 of84)
Open Image Modal
Legendary David Bowie performs at Glastonbury Festival at Pilton, for the final day of the annual music event. (credit:PA)
Film Premiere of "The Man Who Fell To Earth" - Odeon Leicester Square - London - 1976(77 of84)
Open Image Modal
American actress Candy Clark attends the premiere of the sci-fi film "The Man Who Fell to Earth, " in which she stars along with musician and singer David Bowie. (credit:PA)
David Bowie's sell-out concert at Wembley Stadium.(78 of84)
Open Image Modal
David Bowie's sell-out concert at Wembley Stadium. (credit:PA)
Film Premiere of "The Man Who Fell To Earth" - Odeon Leicester Square - London - 1976(79 of84)
Open Image Modal
A futuristic style outfit for Angie Bowie as she arrives at the Leicester Square Theatre in London for the premiere of the sci-fi film "The Man Who Fell To Earth," which stars her husband, musician and singer David Bowie. (credit:PA)
David Bowie at Wembley Stadium(80 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock Superstar David Bowie during his ell-out concert at Wemblety Stadium. (credit:PA)
8th January - Born on this Day - 1947(81 of84)
Open Image Modal
Singer, Songwriter, musician and actor, David Bowie. (credit:PA)
David Bowie(82 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock superstar David Bowie who shot to fame in the early seventies with his alter ego album, The Rise and Fall Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars. He went on to combine singing with a successful acting career, making his debut in 1976 with The Man Who Fell to Earth (credit:PA)
Live Aid Concert - Wembley Stadium(83 of84)
Open Image Modal
The Princess of Wales meets David Bowie at the Live Aid Concert. (credit:PA)
Rock star David Bowie(84 of84)
Open Image Modal
Rock star David Bowie at Goldens Green Crematorium where he joined mourners at the funeral of pop singer Marc Bolan. (credit:PA)