I was fortunate to begin 2026 by catching The Sound and Vision of David Bowie at The Cutting Room in New York City on January 9. Featuring musicians who all worked closely with Bowie, the evening felt both intimate and extraordinary, bringing his iconic catalog vividly to life.
Opening the night, JJ Appleton reflected on how a simple glance at social media on our phones now delivers a steady stream of bad news, and the importance of coming together in shared spaces—listening to music and building community. That spirit carried throughout the performance by Brian Delaney, Catherine Russell, Donny McCaslin, JJ Appleton, Everett Bradley, Gail Ann Dorsey, Gerry Leonard, Henry Hey, Jim Boggia, Mark Plati, Sophia Anne Caruso, and Tony Levin, with special guest Suzanne Vega joining for several songs. Together, they created a powerful sense of connection, honoring not only Bowie’s visionary songwriting but also his exceptional gift for surrounding himself with remarkable musicians.
Words and Photography by Fredda Gordon.
