Imagine this: You’re strolling down a bustling street in Malta’s vibrant capital, Valletta. You pass by the iconic Grandmaster’s Palace, the quaint St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and then, suddenly, you find yourself in front of a familiar red door. It’s the very door that once welcomed David Bowie, the legendary musician who spent a significant part of his childhood in Malta. And now, it’s opening its doors to you.

From Malta to Brixton: Bowie’s Early Years

Born David Robert Jones in London, Bowie spent his early childhood in the small village of Brixton Hill, now a bustling part of South London. His family moved to Malta when he was just eight months old, and it was here that Bowie’s musical journey began. His father, a promotions officer for the Royal Air Force, introduced him to the world of music, buying him his first guitar when they were stationed in Sliema.

Malta, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene, played a pivotal role in shaping Bowie’s artistic vision. It was here that he first started to experiment with music, learning to play the saxophone and even forming his first band, The Konrads, in the late 1950s.

The Brixton Home: A Museum in the Making

Now, nearly six decades later, Bowie’s childhood home in Brixton is set to become a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. The David Bowie Family Home, as it will be known, is a four-story terraced house where Bowie lived until he was six years old. The house is currently undergoing renovations to transform it into a space that celebrates Bowie’s life and career.

While the museum is set to open its doors in London, it’s a reminder of the significant impact Malta had on Bowie’s musical journey. It’s a testament to the island’s cultural heritage and its role in nurturing artistic talent.

Malta’s Tributes to Bowie

Malta has always been proud of its connection to Bowie. In 2016, following the musician’s death, the city of Valletta paid tribute to him with a series of murals painted on the city’s walls. The murals, created by local street artist Andrew Borg, depicted Bowie in various stages of his career, from his Ziggy Stardust persona to his later years.

Bowie’s influence can still be felt in Malta’s music scene. Local bands often cover his songs, and his music continues to inspire new generations of musicians. His legacy lives on, not just in the music he created, but also in the places he called home.

So, while you might not be able to visit Bowie’s Brixton home just yet, you can still explore the island that played a crucial role in his musical journey. From the streets of Sliema to the vibrant nightlife of Paceville, Malta is a living testament to Bowie’s enduring legacy.

“I’m proud to be a Brixton boy. I think it’s probably where I feel most at home.” – David Bowie