David Bowie

On September 5, 1980, David Bowie graced The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson with a memorable performance featuring his iconic tracks "Life on Mars?" and "Ashes to Ashes." This came shortly after the release of his album "Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)" earlier that same year, which marked a significant phase in Bowie's career as he embraced a blend of new wave and rock elements. Interestingly, this album redefined his sound, building on the art rock legacy he was known for while also heralding a more commercially viable era. Bowie's performance on Carson's show was notable not just for its musical brilliance, but also for showcasing his complex persona—an artist comfortably navigating fame, identity, and reinvention, themes prevalent throughout his vast discography.

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