Ava Cherry
Ava Cherry is an American singer whose collaboration with David Bowie during the mid-1970s played a key role in shaping the sound and visual identity of his transition from glam rock to soul-influenced music. She was a central figure in Bowie’s live vocal ensemble during the Diamond Dogs and Soul Tours.
Alongside Luther Vandross and Robin Clark, Cherry helped define the rich, gospel-infused harmonies that became a hallmark of Bowie’s Young Americans era.
- Born: United States
- Role: Backing vocals
- With Bowie: 1974–1975
- Associated era: Diamond Dogs / Young Americans
Early career
Ava Cherry emerged from the American soul and R&B tradition, developing a vocal style rooted in gospel phrasing and expressive harmony work. Before joining Bowie’s circle, she had already built experience as a professional backing vocalist.
Joining David Bowie’s touring ensemble
Cherry joined David Bowie’s live band in 1974 during the latter stages of the Diamond Dogs Tour. As Bowie’s music evolved away from glam theatrics and toward soul-based arrangements, her voice became an essential component of the new sound.
The Soul Tour and Young Americans era
During the 1974–1975 Soul Tour, Ava Cherry’s vocals formed part of a powerful trio that brought church-inspired harmonies to Bowie’s stage performances. These arrangements directly informed the studio sound of Young Americans, Bowie’s landmark soul album.
Stage presence and visual impact
Cherry’s presence extended beyond vocals. Her on-stage style and confidence complemented Bowie’s shifting image, reinforcing the sophisticated, urban aesthetic of his mid-1970s performances.
After Bowie
Following her work with Bowie, Ava Cherry continued her career as a vocalist and performer, remaining respected for her contributions to one of Bowie’s most musically transformative periods.
Legacy
Ava Cherry’s legacy within Bowie’s career is inseparable from the Young Americans era. Her voice helped carry Bowie across a stylistic boundary, proving that his music could successfully absorb and honour soul traditions while remaining unmistakably his own.