Tony Visconti Recalls Final Conversation with David Bowie, Reveals Late Legend’s Plans for New Album

Tony Visconti, the iconic producer who collaborated with David Bowie on numerous albums throughout the late rock legend’s career, recently opened up about his final conversation with the artist. Visconti, who co-produced 11 of Bowie’s albums, including the critically acclaimed *Blackstar*, shared his memories of their last interaction, shedding light on Bowie’s enduring creativity and plans for the future—plans tragically cut short by his death.

In a revealing interview with the *New York Post*, Visconti recalled speaking with Bowie in late 2015. At the time, Bowie was grappling with his battle with liver cancer, although he remained focused on his music. Visconti recalled how Bowie expressed excitement for the future, telling him that he had already started work on new material for an upcoming album.

“He told me that he was going to make another album he started writing,” Visconti recalled. “And I said, ‘Oh, I can’t wait to hear,’ and he goes, ‘Yeah, well, right after we get over the holidays, we’ll get together, and I’ll let you hear the music.’ But that was the last time I ever heard from him.”

That conversation, Visconti noted, was filled with optimism. Bowie was not only looking forward to making new music but was also eager to share it with his trusted collaborator. Unfortunately, this was the final exchange between the two before Bowie’s passing on January 10, 2016, just two days after *Blackstar* was released, a haunting farewell album that would go on to solidify his legacy.

A Personal Revelation

During that same conversation, Bowie shared more personal news with Visconti that hinted at a joyful new chapter in his life. “He said, ‘I’ve got something to tell you,’” Visconti recounted, “and he was whispering to me on the phone.” The secret Bowie revealed was one that brought immense pride and joy to the artist. “I said, ‘I can’t hear you. Speak up!’ He goes into another room, and he says, ‘I’m going to be a grandfather.’”

This announcement marked a significant moment for Bowie, who was excited about becoming a grandfather to the child of his son, Duncan Jones. Sadly, Bowie would not live long enough to meet his first grandchild. Duncan’s son, Stenton David Jones, was born in July 2016—several months after his grandfather’s death.

Visconti Reflects on Bowie’s Legacy

While Visconti clearly feels the loss of his dear friend, he is also quick to reflect on Bowie’s enduring influence. Their relationship began in the late 1960s when Visconti moved to London, where he first met Bowie, an encounter that led to a deep friendship and fruitful musical collaboration. Visconti was instrumental in the creation of some of Bowie’s most iconic albums, including *The Man Who Sold the World* (1970), *Young Americans* (1975), *Low* (1977), *“Heroes”* (1977), *Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)* (1980), *Heathen* (2002), *Reality* (2003), and *The Next Day* (2013).

Despite the tragedy of Bowie’s untimely death, Visconti expressed how the musician’s spirit continues to live on through his work. “I don’t like to think about him dying at all, because, you know, he’s so vibrant, and he’s still alive in spirit and his music,” Visconti said. “Generations are going to grow up and rediscover him, his records will keep selling and selling, and young kids will discover and be inspired by him.”

David Bowie’s legacy remains indelible, with his work continuing to inspire new generations of music lovers and artists. As Visconti put it, the music will outlive all of us, ensuring that Bowie’s influence will resonate far beyond his time. Though he may be gone, the music—and the memories of a friendship built on a shared passion for art—endures.