Janelle Monae Recalls Time-Traveling to the 1970s to Meet David Bowie Backstage

## The Search for Unattended Concerts

Many music lovers often find themselves lamenting the concerts they missed throughout their lives. While concert films offer a glimpse into those experiences, Janelle Monae has come up with an even more imaginative solution: time travel.

## A Unique Halloween Revelation

It all began with a discussion about Halloween, an event Monae meticulously plans for two years ahead. This holiday allows her to explore her creative instincts toward transformation and craft a vibrant musical universe. “When I first saw David Bowie,” she recounted, prompting a curious response from Lucy Dacus, who interjected, “You saw him?”

### A Journey Back in Time

“I did,” Monae confirmed with excitement. “I traveled back to the 1970s and witnessed him perform ‘Ziggy Stardust’ with the Spiders From Mars. It was nothing short of incredible.” Dacus, intrigued, sought clarity, asking once more, “You traveled back?”

“Yes! I was backstage,” Monae explained. “In that moment, I knew this was my path. Then I jetted back to the 2000s, ready to create music and lyrics, nurturing a community centered around transformation and queerness—both in sexuality and worldview.” Monae has previously cited Ziggy Stardust as a major inspiration for her debut album, *The ArchAndroid*.

## Halloween’s Creative Synergy

So, how did the conversation circle back to Halloween? Monae remarked, “I believe that’s where the connection lies. Halloween gives people a chance to resonate with my frequency.”

Dacus listened, slightly bemused but certainly intrigued by all that Monae shared.