Remembering David Bowie: Woody Woodmansey's Reflections and Ziggyfest Celebration
Woody Woodmansey, the last original member of David Bowie's Spiders from Mars, shared his experience of Bowie's final days. He revealed that he was unaware of the severity of Bowie's illness until the day before his passing in January 2016. Despite knowing that Bowie was unwell, Woody and his bandmates were shocked to learn of his death. The drummer reminisced about their last contact with Bowie, which coincided with a concert in New York City on Bowie's 69th birthday.
Woody, who was part of the Bowie tribute band Holy Holy, described the emotional moment when they called Bowie during the concert to wish him a Happy Birthday. Little did they know that it would be their final interaction with the legendary musician. The news of Bowie's death came as a sudden and heartbreaking blow to Woody and the music community.
Reflecting on Bowie's battle with cancer, Woody shared a poignant memory of Bowie revealing his bald head due to chemotherapy during a studio session. The drummer recalled the shock and vulnerability of seeing his friend in that state, highlighting the toll the illness had taken on Bowie's appearance.
Ziggyfest, an event dedicated to celebrating Bowie's legacy, brought together fans and collaborators of the iconic musician. Attendees, including Suzi Ronson and Kevin Armstrong, paid tribute to Bowie's influence on music and fashion. The event featured a competition for the best Ziggy lookalike, won by Madame Crumpet, adding a touch of fun to the festivities.
Hosted at Ziggy Green restaurant in London, the event captured the essence of Bowie's Stardust era with iconic photographs adorning the walls. The day-long celebration included live music, drinks, and food, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the attendees. The event also raised funds for Sarabande and Magic Breakfast, supporting important causes in the arts and children's welfare.
A highlight of the event was an auction featuring memorabilia from Bowie's career, including his golden microphone from the Ziggy Stardust Tour and sealed artwork by renowned photographer Duffy. The auction items added a touch of nostalgia and exclusivity to the event, showcasing the enduring legacy of David Bowie in the music industry.
In conclusion, Woody Woodmansey's recollections of his final moments with David Bowie offer a glimpse into the profound impact the musician had on those around him. Ziggyfest served as a fitting tribute to Bowie's artistry and influence, bringing together fans and collaborators to celebrate his enduring legacy. The event's success in raising funds for charitable causes underscores the ongoing support for Bowie's vision and philanthropic endeavors.