David Bowie's last will
David Bowie's ashes will be scattered in Bali. The singer's family said they planned a private ceremony to celebrate the late rock legend, honouring his wishes to remain discreet about his death.
Bowie died on January 10, two days after his 69th birthday, following an 18-month battle with cancer which he revealed to only a select few.
Representatives for the British-born artist declined to comment on a report in the Daily Mirror that said his body was cremated in New York, his adopted home, immediately after his death.
The New York Post, citing Bowie's will which it said was filed in a Manhattan court, said that the British rock star wanted his ashes scattered in Bali in line with Buddhist rituals. The Indonesian island, which is predominantly Hindu, is renowned for its unique musical and artistic culture and as a retreat for spirituality seekers. David Bowie frequented Bali since the early 90’s.
People close to him said that Bowie wanted to keep his illness away from the glare of 24-hour social media.
He instead released a final album, "Blackstar," on his 69th birthday on Friday in what in retrospect was an elaborate artistic statement on his death and nearly half-century career.
Bali villa frequented by David Bowie. Photo AD
An article by Coconuts Bali on 1st February asks ‘Did David Bowie mistake Bali for a Buddhist 'country' in his will?’
David Bowie is believed to have spent time in Bali and other parts of Indonesia. His song "Tumble and Twirl" notably starts with the lines, "I've seen the city / And I took the next flight for Borneo / They say it's pretty."
The Jakarta Post, in an article after Bowie's death, found a photo of the rocker dressed in an Indonesian sarong and said he made Indonesian-language versions of several of his songs.
Bowie died two days after releasing his final album, "Blackstar," which in retrospect was an intricate artistic statement on the career of one of the most influential artists in rock history.
Over a near half-century career, Bowie pioneered glam rock and pursued soul, electronica, New Wave pop and jazz. He was also a major force in fashion, theatre and art.
Top photo: Crowds read and place tributes at a mural of singer David Bowie, by Australian artist J. Cochran, Jimmy C. Photo: Niklas Halle'n/AFP
Young Bowie in Bali - Jakpost
