It has been an eventful few days for rock legends taking aim at the contemporary landscape from the vibrant stages of Manchester. While Bruce Springsteen delivered a scathing critique of US politics last week at Co-op Live, Tony Visconti’s light-hearted jibe aimed at Morrissey stood out as a more jovial performance. Visconti, a long-time collaborator of the late David Bowie, took to the stage at Manchester's O2 Ritz, where he emerged as both a musical icon and a wry commentator on the industry.
Visconti's career with Bowie spans several decades, starting with the 1968 single "In the Heat of the Morning" and culminating in the poignant final album, "Blackstar," released shortly before Bowie’s passing in 2016. During his illustrious career, he produced numerous iconic albums, including "The Man Who Sold the World" and "Heroes," while often stepping into the role of bass player in Bowie's band. His connection to Manchester was ever-present as he entertained the audience with tales from his extensive musical journey.
During the concert, the atmosphere turned playful when Visconti reflected on his work with Morrissey, particularly on the latter's 2006 album "Ringleader of the Tormentors." As he recounted an amusing anecdote about Morrissey's noted obsession with chart standings, the audience responded with mixed feelings—boos mingled with laughter, signalling that public sentiment regarding Morrissey’s recent political views remains contentious. “What went wrong?” Visconti quipped, before painting a picture of an uncharacteristically happy Morrissey upon learning that their collaboration topped UK charts: “Can you imagine seeing Morrissey smile? I’ve actually seen it. It was just a glimpse.”
At 81, Visconti shows no signs of slowing down, humourously asserting on social media that he is “still alive and working my butt off.” The performance featured his band Holy Holy, which also includes acclaimed drummer Mick "Woody" Woodmansey, the last surviving member of Bowie’s famed backing band, The Spiders from Mars. The setlist celebrated the golden years of Bowie’s music, offering attendees a nostalgic experience akin to being present at a live Bowie concert.
The recent tensions surrounding Morrissey’s public persona are echoed in his planned return to the UK and Ireland in 2025, which includes a much-anticipated homecoming gig in Manchester. As he continues to navigate his contentious brand of celebrity, engagements such as this highlight the diverging paths taken by former collaborators. For Visconti, it seems that conjuring the legacy of Bowie not only fosters a space for reflection but also for light-hearted, if pointed, commentary on the twists and turns of musical careers and personal beliefs that shape them.
As audiences continue to engage with the rich tapestry of rock history, events like Visconti's performances remind us of the enduring connections forged through music and the ever-evolving narratives of artists who once walked the same stage.
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Source: Noah Wire Services