David Bowie, born David Robert Jones, was an iconic English singer, songwriter, musician, and actor, renowned for his chameleonic ability to reinvent himself and his music. Emerging in the 1960s, Bowie's breakthrough came with the 1972 album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," where he embodied the fantastical sci-fi character Ziggy Stardust. Throughout his career, Bowie's innovative approach to music and performance left an indelible mark on popular culture. He co-wrote hits like "Fame" with Carlos Alomar and John Lennon, and his discography spans genres like glam rock and art rock. Bowie's stagecraft and visual presentation were as legendary as his music, making him one of the most influential and acclaimed musicians of the 20th century.