Exclusive Inside Look: Foo Fighters’ Nate Mendel Recounts Unforgettable Performance at David Bowie’s Epic 50th Birthday Bash
David Bowie threw a spectacular bash to celebrate his 50th birthday in January 1997. Instead of opting for a casual outing, Bowie went all out and hosted a grand show at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York. The event featured Bowie performing his classic hits with the help of some prominent friends like Robert Smith, Frank Black, Billy Corgan, Kim Gordon, and Lou Reed. The Foo Fighters also joined in, delivering a blazing rendition of Bowie’s drum’n’bass-tinged track, “Hallo Spaceboy.”
For the Foo Fighters, who were still relatively new to the scene at the time, this star-studded celebration was a pivotal moment. Bassist Nate Mendel reflected on the experience, highlighting how it marked the last performance with their first drummer, William Goldsmith. It was also their first time at Madison Square Garden, their first encounter with Bowie, and their first time performing on such a massive stage. “It was pulling us out of the studio, going to New York, meeting a legend and just having all these firsts. It was pretty monumental from my perspective, it was impactful,” Mendel shared.
Despite feeling intimidated backstage amidst legendary musicians, Mendel recalled the supportive atmosphere and Bowie’s gracious and approachable demeanor. He humorously reminisced about witnessing a rock legend indulging in cocaine backstage, a moment that added to the surreal experience of the evening. Mendel also jokingly mentioned his embarrassment at being seated directly behind Bowie in the famous photo from the event, wearing a comically oversized white button-up shirt.
However, Mendel cherished the memories of the actual performance, emphasizing the thrill of playing alongside Bowie and being just a few feet away from the music icon. The joy and excitement of the moment overshadowed any initial nervousness or self-consciousness.
The celebration not only marked a significant milestone for Bowie but also became a memorable experience for all the artists involved. The fusion of talent, energy, and camaraderie on that historic night at Madison Square Garden created a magical atmosphere that resonated with everyone present.
Years later, the legacy of this extraordinary event continues to inspire music enthusiasts and serves as a testament to the enduring influence and creativity of David Bowie and his contemporaries. The celebration embodied the essence of collaboration and artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
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