Helen Grant MP

don’t know where I am going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring”. Thus spoke David Bowie on his 50th birthday, and it could be applied throughout his life.

Whether a glam rock star from space or wholesome Bing Crosby’s Christmas companion, his many personae and the diversity of his music allowed David Bowie to enter the lives of millions across several generations. And although he was known as the master of reinvention, his essence remained personal and authentic throughout.

It was the single Ashes to Ashes and then the album Let’s Dance that sit most strongly in my memories, with the volume at 11.

For me though, it wasn’t just the music. He created a space where it was acceptable to defy the usual rules, celebrate difference and embrace self-belief in a world full of prejudice.

Bowie was one of a rare pedigree of musicians, alongside greats such as Elton John and the late Freddie Mercury, who transcended the usual social boundaries while maintaining almost universal popularity, bringing people and communities together. And while his politics were private and nonpartisan, he made a social impact, helping bring down the Berlin Wall being one such accolade.

With such a huge cultural legacy it is easy to overlook the 20 years or so of charitable work he supported, often led by his beloved