John Lennon shared his three songwriting rules with David Bowie

In 1974, David Bowie’s career was soaring after his success in the glam rock scene with hits like Ziggy Stardust and Diamond Dogs. Inspired by idols such as the Beatles, Bowie found himself in awe of John Lennon, with whom he would later form a friendship leading to their collaboration on the song “Fame”.

While Bowie’s career started to take off in the mid-60s, he never emulated the Beatles’ pop style. Still, his admiration for Lennon’s avant-garde approach and innovative ideas knew no bounds. Bowie praised Lennon’s ability to blend outsider ideas with mainstream appeal, making art accessible to the masses – a quality Bowie found truly admirable.

By 1974, Bowie had relocated to New York, coincidentally the same city where Lennon had settled in 1971. It was almost inevitable that the paths of these two musical icons would cross. The moment finally arrived at a party hosted by actress Elizabeth Taylor, where Bowie was thrilled to meet Lennon, his musical hero.

Describing Lennon as a major influence on his musical journey, Bowie recounted how he revered Lennon for his creativity and ability to push boundaries. Their meeting, which occurred late in the day, saw Bowie engaged in sketching on an art pad while Lennon quietly observed. Despite any initial apprehensions, Bowie felt a sense of kinship with Lennon during their time together.

Reflecting on their meeting, Bowie recalled their interaction with a touch of warmth, noting the mutual respect they shared for each other. Although Bowie felt somewhat intimidated by the iconic Lennon, the former Beatle expressed his admiration for Bowie’s vast talent, especially during the Ziggy Stardust era.

Lennon’s words of praise for Bowie’s talent and versatility left a lasting impact on both musicians. Bowie, in an interview from the 1980s, acknowledged Lennon’s influence on his music and artistry, highlighting the profound respect he held for Lennon’s innovative spirit and unconventional approach to popular music.

While their encounter may have been brief, the meeting between David Bowie and John Lennon left an indelible mark on both musicians. It showcased a mutual admiration and respect for each other’s artistic genius, underscoring the profound impact they had on the world of music and popular culture. Their collaboration on “Fame” stands as a testament to the creative synergy between two legends of the music industry.