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Mick Jagger, David Bowie and Lou Reed at David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust ‘s farewell party
July 4, 1973: Mick and Bianca Jagger attend David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust’s “retirement party” at the Cafe Royal in London, England. Also present were Lou Reed, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Jeff Beck, Keith Moon, and other celebrities.
Ziggy Bows Out: Bowie’s Legendary 1973 Farewell Party
In July 1973, David Bowie hosted one of the most iconic and talked-about parties in rock history: his “retirement” celebration for Ziggy Stardust. Held at the exclusive Café Royal in London, the event marked the end of Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona and the conclusion of his accompanying world tour. This grand farewell gathered an eclectic mix of musicians, artists, and celebrities, creating a night that epitomized the glam rock era.
The guest list was as glittering as it was diverse, including Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney, Lou Reed, Keith Moon, and Barbra Streisand, to name a few. Many arrived dressed in their most extravagant attire, fully embracing Bowie’s theatrical influence. The party became a spectacle of creativity, blending the avant-garde with rock royalty. (Ref. Rolling Stones Ziggy Party)
A Glamorous Goodbye: Inside Bowie’s Café Royal Celebration
Bowie, ever the showman, played the perfect host, engaging his guests with his charm and charisma. Despite the festive atmosphere, the occasion was bittersweet for fans of Ziggy Stardust. Bowie had announced the retirement of his beloved alter ego just weeks earlier, leaving many wondering what direction his career would take next.
The Café Royal itself, renowned for its opulence, served as the ideal venue for such a landmark event. Its gilded décor and historical significance added a sense of grandeur to the evening. Guests dined, danced, and reminisced, celebrating Bowie’s immense contribution to music and culture.
This legendary party solidified Bowie’s reputation as a trendsetter and cultural icon, making headlines and further cementing the mystique of Ziggy Stardust. The Café Royal retirement party remains a defining moment in music history—a lavish farewell to a character who revolutionized rock and a testament to Bowie’s unparalleled artistry. (Ref. Rolling Stones Ziggy Party)
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