David Bowie Homenaje

Ten years after the death of David Bowie, Valencia came together in spectacular style to celebrate the life, music and limitless legacy of one of popular culture’s greatest visionaries. The Auditorio Roig Arena was packed to the rafters for David Bowie – Homenaje, a sold-out night of emotion, glamour, electricity and pure reverence as some of the city’s most iconic musicians united to honour the Starman.

From the moment the lights dropped, there was a feeling in the room that this was going to be far more than a tribute concert. This was a communal act of gratitude. A celebration of an artist who changed music, fashion, theatre and identity forever. Every seat was filled, every face turned toward the stage, every heart ready to be transported through Bowie’s extraordinary catalogue.

Leading the charge was Pepe Mallent, legendary vocalist of Sunken Screens, whose presence brought instant class and soul to the evening. His interpretations carried warmth and elegance, proving why he remains one of Valencia’s most respected performers. Adolfo Barberá of Glamour brought swagger, sophistication and a sharp-edged pop energy that perfectly suited Bowie’s more stylish, decadent moments. His charisma lit up the arena. The pairing of Salva Ortiz, dummer of Presuntos Implicados and Honorio Barranco added power and depth, driving through the rockier side of Bowie’s catalogue with punch and passion. Their chemistry gave the songs a muscular new life.

Peter Sebastian, known from Licence to Blow, delivered a commanding set of vocals and stagecraft, channelling the theatricality and soul that Bowie always carried beneath the glitter. Jorge Moreno of Falsa Pasión injected fire and drama into the performance, while Vicente Montesinos from Spy Planebrought texture and atmosphere, adding layers to songs already rich with mystery and emotion. Completing the remarkable line-up was José Luis Macías of Comité Cisne, whose appearance drew huge applause from the crowd. His voice and presence added a darker, art-rock intensity that felt tailor-made for Bowie’s world.

And then there were the songs. The classics. Each one greeted like an old friend, yet carrying fresh emotional weight a decade after Bowie’s passing. When those unmistakable melodies rang out, the audience responded with goosebumps, cheers, tears and singalongs. There were moments of joy, moments of reflection, and moments where the entire arena seemed suspended in time.

Adding another layer of artistry to the evening was the stunning live portrait painting by Jesús Arrúe, who created Bowie before the audience’s eyes as the music unfolded. Stroke by stroke, colour by colour, the icon reappeared in real time — a powerful visual centrepiece that perfectly matched the spirit of reinvention Bowie embodied throughout his life. Special guest artist Juan Luis Giménez also added extra prestige to a night already bursting with talent.

The Roig Arena once again proved itself as one of Valencia’s premier live venues, providing the perfect setting for an event of this scale and emotional resonance. Crisp sound, grand visuals and an atmosphere charged with affection turned the night into something unforgettable. Ten years without Bowie? Perhaps in years, yes. But in spirit, in influence and in song, he was vividly alive in Valencia. This was not just a tribute. It was a reminder that true legends never leave.

Words and Photos: Rhyan Paul