Bowie writing songs for theatre

David Bowie is writing songs for a New York theatre show, it’s been confirmed.

He’s creating material for a production based on The Man Who Fell To Earth, moving the story on from the 1963 novel – and the 1976 film in which he starred.

Entitled Lazarus, it’s to premiere at the end of this year, featuring new Bowie compositions along with classic tracks – but the musician isn’t expected to appear on stage.

The New York Theatre Workshop say the production was Bowie’s own idea, and it’s being developed by director Ivor can Hove and playwright Enda Walsh.

Artistic director James Nicola tells the New York Times: “It’s going to be a play with characters and songs. I’m calling it ‘musical theatre’ – but I don’t really know what it’s going to be like.

“I just have incredible trust in the creative vision. There are three very different sensibilities to be colliding.”

Bowie staged a surprise return from semi-retirement in 2013 with the release of The Next Day, his award-winning 24th album.

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.