Putting Out Fire With Gasoline David Bowie
So, picture this: you're at a party, the disco ball's spinning, and suddenly, someone shouts, "Fire!" Now, most of us would grab the nearest fire extinguisher, right? But not...
So, picture this: you're at a party, the disco ball's spinning, and suddenly, someone shouts, "Fire!" Now, most of us would grab the nearest fire extinguisher, right? But not David Bowie. Oh no, he had a different approach. He'd saunter over, flick his hair, and say, "Hold my mullet, I'm gonna put this out with some gasoline."
Gasoline? Really?
Yep, you heard it right. Bowie, the man who brought us Ziggy Stardust and "Let's Dance," was also a bit of a pyromaniac when it came to his art. But before you call the fire marshal, let's put this blaze of a story into context.
Bowie was a master of spectacle, a showman who loved to push boundaries. His concerts were more than just gigs; they were theatrical events, complete with elaborate sets, costumes, and, you guessed it, fire. Lots of it.
Must Read
Firewalker Bowie
Bowie wasn't just toying with fire for the sake of it. He was a certified firewalker, a practice that involves walking barefoot over hot coals. It's a bit like walking on the sun, but with fewer tan lines. Bowie did this to prepare for his role in the 1976 film "The Man Who Fell to Earth." He wanted to understand the character's pain and endurance, and walking on fire seemed like a good place to start. (Side note: If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, just remember, Bowie did it. You can too.)
But back to the gasoline. Bowie's use of it wasn't some reckless stunt. It was a controlled, calculated part of his stage performances. He'd douse his guitar in gasoline, set it alight, and play a blistering solo amidst the flames. It was like watching a phoenix play the guitar, and it was all caught on camera in the concert film "Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars."
David Bowie Quote: “I’ve been putting out the fire with gasoline.”
But Why?
Why would Bowie put out fires with gasoline? Well, because he could. Because it was dangerous and dramatic, just like him. Because it was a metaphor for his career - burning bright, pushing boundaries, and leaving everyone else in the dust. Because, quite simply, it was Bowie.
But don't try this at home, kids. Bowie was a professional, and even he had his limits. He once said, "I'm not a punk. I was a punk, I think. But I'm not a punk now." The same goes for his fire antics. He was a firewalker, a fire guitarist, but he wasn't a fire safety expert. So, let's leave the gasoline to the professionals, shall we?
David Bowie Quote: “I’ve been putting out the fire with gasoline.”
Bowie's Legacy
Bowie's use of fire was more than just a gimmick. It was a symbol of his fearlessness, his creativity, and his willingness to push the envelope. He was a chameleon, a starman, and a firewalker, all rolled into one. And while we might not follow his lead and start dousing things in gasoline, we can certainly learn from his spirit.
So, the next time you're at a party and someone shouts "Fire!", remember Bowie. Remember the gasoline. Remember to call the fire department. And then, maybe, just maybe, flick your hair and say, "Hold my mullet, I've got this." Just don't actually do it. Bowie was one of a kind, and we don't want any more mullets catching fire.