11 Paint: David Bowie and the Texture of Guitar Experimentalism
Abstract
David Bowie’s body of work has consistently been marked by an innovative use of the electric guitar. From Mick Ronson to Carlos Alomar to Robert Fripp to Reeves Gabrels, the unconventional and experimental techniques used by his guitar playing collaborators have been one of the most distinctive elements within Bowie’s body of work. This paper discusses the electric guitar as an implement of melody, harmony, rhythm and, especially, texture, drawing parallels with canvas painting in order to examine the dramatic form of sonic theater that Bowie and his collaborators have lofted out of the diverse and colorful history of the guitar.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Musicology and Musical Analysis
Music History and Culture
Music Technology and Sound Studies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Duke University Press eBooks
- Pages
- 193–202
- Publication date
- 7 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter