A remarkable piece of music history has been unearthed at London's Victoria and Albert Museum, offering an unprecedented look into the musical mind of the legendary David Bowie. Curators have discovered a handwritten list, compiled by Bowie himself, detailing his 35 all-time favourite songs—a revelation that promises to reshape our understanding of the artist's eclectic influences.
The list forms a central part of the V&A's major new exhibition, David Bowie: A Musical Legacy, which opens to the public next month. What makes this discovery particularly extraordinary is its timing: these weren't childhood favourites or early influences, but songs Bowie loved throughout his entire life, right up until his passing in 2016.
The Eclectic Taste of a Musical Chameleon
True to his genre-defying nature, Bowie's selections showcase a breathtakingly diverse range of artists and styles. The list spans multiple decades and continents, featuring everything from classic rock anthems to obscure experimental pieces.
Among the standout inclusions are The Rolling Stones' ‘Port of Spain’, a deep cut that reveals Bowie's appreciation for the Stones' lesser-known work. Perhaps more surprising is the inclusion of ‘I Took a Trip on a Gemini Spaceship’ by The Legendary Stardust Cowboy—an artist whose flamboyant persona clearly resonated with Bowie's own theatrical style.
Beyond the Expected Choices
While the list includes some predictable names like The Beatles and Little Richard, many choices demonstrate Bowie's sophisticated and often unexpected taste. The inclusion of ‘You Didn't Have to Be So Nice’ by The Lovin' Spoonful and ‘I've Been Loving You Too Long’ by Otis Redding shows his appreciation for soul and classic pop craftsmanship.
Perhaps most telling is what isn't on the list. Bowie notably omitted his own compositions, choosing instead to celebrate the artists who inspired him. This humility offers a touching glimpse into how the iconic performer saw himself within the broader musical landscape.
A Window Into Creative Inspiration
Dr. Emily Carter, the exhibition's lead curator, describes the list as “a roadmap to Bowie's creative DNA.” She notes: “We can hear echoes of these songs throughout his work—in his chord progressions, his lyrical themes, and his fearless genre-hopping. This isn't just a list of songs he enjoyed; it's a key to understanding how he built his artistic universe.”
The handwritten nature of the list adds a deeply personal dimension. Visitors will be able to see Bowie's distinctive script and the careful consideration evident in his selections.
Experience the Soundtrack of a Legend
The exhibition will feature listening stations where visitors can immerse themselves in Bowie's personal playlist. This interactive element allows fans to literally hear the world through Bowie's ears, creating a uniquely intimate connection with the artist.
This extraordinary discovery adds yet another layer to Bowie's enduring legacy. It confirms that his musical curiosity never dimmed, and his appreciation for great songwriting remained razor-sharp until the end. For music lovers and Bowie enthusiasts alike, this exhibition offers nothing less than a conversation with the man himself—through the songs he loved most.
