The Berlin Trinity
Three legends that Berlin inspired and inspired Berlin. David Bowie, Iggy Pop and Nick Cave, icons of the 21st Century, each made their pilgrimage to Berlin. Like countless artists before them they were drawn to the city for its history of fostering creativity and innovation. It is here that they wrote some of their legendary compositions. This collection of portraits is a celebration of the individual genius of these remarkable artists.
Bowie in Berlin
David Bowie moved to Berlin in 1976 seeking a change from the tumultuous lifestyle he had in Los Angeles and looking for a new musical direction. Berlin represented a sanctuary where he could focus on his health and artistic rejuvenation. The city’s stark, divided nature and rich cultural life provided him with the raw material and inspiration he needed to reinvent himself.
His time in Berlin led to the creation of three of his most critically acclaimed albums, known collectively as the "Berlin Trilogy." These albums included Low (1977), Heroes (1977), and Lodger (1979). The single Heroes became emblematic of Bowie's Berlin era, capturing a sense of heroic melancholy. Berlin not only revitalised Bowie’s career but also left a lasting impact on the music industry, influencing the direction of electronic and ambient music.
Iggy in Schöneberg
Iggy Pop relocated to Berlin in 1975, largely influenced by his close friend David Bowie. During his time in Berlin, Iggy produced two significant albums that are often considered the best work of his career: "The Idiot" and "Lust for Life," both released in 1977. The music from these Berlin sessions showcased Iggy’s versatility as an artist and remains highly influential in rock and punk music, marking Berlin as a transformative chapter in his career.
"I came to Berlin totally fit and left it as a wreck." Iggy Pop
Cave in Kreuzberg
Nick relocated with his band The Birthday Party to Kreuzberg, Berlin in 1982. It was here where he collaborated with Die Haut and Einstürzende Neubauten and formed the band Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds.
Nick recorded The Firstborn is Dead (1984), Your Funeral... My Trial (1986) and 'Tender Prey, (1998) at the legendary Hansa Studios.
During his time in Berlin Cave wrote his debut novel And the Ass Saw the Angel.