Not content to merely describe the life of the late musical icon, Bowie Tour London goes much further, recreating the music that made him famous. lt’s a bold strategy but one the company have more than pulled off.
The tours explore many of the landmarks associated with the Thin White Duke as well as revisiting some of Bowie’s most celebrated songs, including Starman, Heroes and Life on Mars.
There are currently three tours to choose from, with Bowie lovers able to choose between walks in Brixton, Soho and Beckenham.
Bowie Tour London is the brainchild of lifelong Bowie fan Nick Stephenson. An accomplished singer/songwriter (and also a more than able tour guide) the Londoner has played at the Isle of Wight Festival, the Secret Garden Party and Glastonbury during his career in the music industry. Wilkinson is also an in-demand session musician, having supported the likes of Toyah Willcox, Ade Edmondson and The Staves.t
The die hard Bowie fan traces his passion for music to a formative experience at the age of five. On the way to hospital to have his tonsils removed, Wilkinson recalls hearing The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night for the very first time. Strangely soothed by the polished sounds of Lennon and McCartney, a lifelong love affair with popular music was born.
Although the former session musician lists his influences as Elvis Costello, Freddie Mercury, Richard Thompson and Father John Misty, it is clear that Bowie holds a special place in his heart. “David Bowie was (and is) a huge inspiration to songwriters, performers, artists, fashion designers and film makers all over the world, including myself” Wilkinson says of the artist.
Searching for an appropriate way to celebrating the 70th anniversary of his hero’s birth, Stephenson hit upon the idea of a tour. Bowie Tour London was the result.
Stephenson says of the tour: “there have been times when the information I’ve researched for this tour has surprised, delighted and warmed my heart, in a way that no other musician’s life ever could” and the musician turned tour guide is clearly hoping to share some of those revelations with those who participate on the tour”.
More information about Bowie Tour London can be found here.
For information on other great walking tours in London, please click here.
