On January 10, the world lost a long-time legend, David Bowie, to cancer, and to quote his song, Space Oddity, the stars look very different today. It is no secret that Bowie was a star, adored and disliked by many for his outspoken appearance and behavior. It cannot be denied, though, that Bowie affected Pop Culture in ways unprecedented. Music reviewer Brad Filicky described Bowie as “a musical chameleon, changing and dictating trends as much as he has altered his style to fit, influencing fashion and pop culture.”

David Bowie was never a silent man. He fought for many things, including up and coming black artists. Once, Bowie blasted MTV for not featuring enough black musicians. He also believed that if one was going to be on stage, then one should wear a costume, which explained his wide array of interesting ensembles. It is often said that Bowie, along with Marc Bolan created the genre of glam rock. Some even feel that Bowie inspired the punk rock movement.

Bowie worked until the day of his death, never truly stopping after his youth. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, as well as receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. As he reached the end of his life, Tony Visconti, Bowie’s producer said the man never slowed down. “He always did what he wanted to do. And he wanted to do it his way and he wanted to do it the best way. His death was no different from his life – a work of Art. He made Blackstar for us, his parting gift. I knew for a year this was the way it would be. I wasn’t, however prepared for it. He was an extraordinary man, full of love and life. He will always be with us. For now, it is appropriate to cry.”

As well as his music, David Bowie is known for a number of remarkable quotes. He once said, “I’m not a prophet or a stone-aged man, just a mortal with potential of a Superman. I’m living on.” Bowie certainly stayed true to his words, seen by many as somewhat of a superhero. He was idolized and loved by many, a role model for numerous generations.

As put in one of his latest songs, Lazarus, Bowie is now free, “just like that bluebird,” but he will be an influence on pop culture for a long time.