The Sunday Express - 5th July 1998

David Bowie's Cyber Space Oddity

Investor News

ROCK LEGEND David Bowie is primed to take on web giant America Online and BT with the launch of his own Internet company. The singer-turned-businessman is using part of his £100 million fortune to set up an Internet service provider allowing fans access to the world-wide web and e-mail through a Bowie-branded service.

Internet access has until now been the preserve of specialist computer and communications firms such as Compuserve, Demon and BT.

By adding "exclusive Bowie content updated constantly" to his web gateway the singer hopes to attract ordinary computer users as well as pop enthusiasts.

The Internet is said by Bowie's friends to be his latest obsession. Once fascinated by drugs, sex and the wilder extremes of music and art, technology is his current passion.

BowieNet, due on-line next month, promises unreleased audio tracks, never-before-seen Bowie photographs and "backstage" video footage. It will also carry news, sports, weather, and financial information for about £12 a month.

A "premium service" will offer occasional interactive "chats" with the star himself, and access to recordings before released.

Bowie, whose hits include A Space Oddity, Let's Dance and China Girl, said he is creating his own ISP to "integrate the power of the Internet and bring it down to a very personal level".

After a launch in the US and Canada the service is expected to be available in Europe this autumn.

Bowie was among the first rock stars to float Wall Street bonds backed by income from his music rights.


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