5 days ago
David Bowie is more than a global icon—he’s part of Brixton’s history.
On January 10, 2016, the world lost one of its greatest artists, but here in Brixton, his story started and continues to resonate deeply.
Born David Robert Jones on January 8, 1947, Bowie took his first breath at 40 Stansfield Road, Brixton. His mother, Peggy, worked as a waitress and cinema usherette, and his father, John, was part of the Barnardo’s children’s charity. Although the family moved to Bromley when he was six, Brixton’s spirit remained woven into Bowie’s narrative.
His early years included time at Stockwell Primary School, where his rebellious streak hinted at the boundary-pushing creativity that would later define his career. It’s where the spark of defiance that shaped Ziggy Stardust was first ignited.
Brixton honours its star with the Ziggy Stardust mural, painted on the side of Morleys department store in 2013 by street artist James Cochran. Just steps from Brixton tube station, the mural has become a pilgrimage site for fans. When Bowie passed, it transformed into a memorial filled with flowers, candles, and heartfelt tributes. The mural is a vivid reminder of the lasting mark Bowie left on his hometown.
Bowie’s death, just two days after his 69th birthday and the release of Blackstar, felt surreal. The album’s exploration of mortality became an instant classic and a poignant farewell. Even in his final act, Bowie redefined artistry, turning his goodbye into something profound and moving.
Though Bowie has left this world, his presence in Brixton remains undeniable. From his childhood home to the mural that celebrates his larger-than-life persona, Brixton continues to hold its claim on one of music’s most innovative minds. Today, we don’t just mourn—we celebrate the Brixton boy who became a global legend, daring us all to dream bigger.
