David Bowie & Cher – The Cher Show (1975)

In 1975, David Bowie made one of the most iconic American television appearances of his career on The Cher Show. The performance was dramatic, stylish and musically daring — combining live vocals, elaborate staging and a unique musical medley that showcased Bowie’s versatility.

At this point in his career, Bowie had left behind the glam theatrics of Ziggy Stardust and was entering his plastic soul era. His evolving artistic identity aligned perfectly with Cher’s glamorous and theatrical world, creating a collaboration that felt both unexpected and natural.

Their duet on Young Americans remains one of the most widely remembered Bowie TV moments. The chemistry between the two performers — Bowie’s smooth soul phrasing and Cher’s sharp, expressive delivery — created a tension and harmony that lifted the song into an entirely new emotional register.

Quick Facts

Year	1975
Main Artists	David Bowie & Cher
Show	The Cher Show (CBS Television)
Key Performances	Young Americans – Medley Sequence
Style	Televised soul performance, glam theatrics, variety show

Background

Bowie’s appearance on The Cher Show came at a time of transition. In 1975 he moved to Los Angeles, immersed himself in American soul music, and recorded his groundbreaking album Young Americans. His performance with Cher offered mainstream America a glimpse of his evolving identity.

The show itself was known for high production value, choreographed routines, and elaborate costumes — all elements Bowie could easily match. His presence elevated the format, giving the show artistic depth and musical sophistication.

For many American viewers, this was their first time seeing Bowie perform soul music live. His voice, now warmer and more expressive than in the Ziggy years, worked beautifully with Cher’s powerful vibrato and dramatic stage presence.

The Duet – Young Americans

The duet of Young Americans remains the most celebrated part of the episode. Cher delivers harmonies and counter-lines while Bowie leads with emotional intensity. Their interplay creates a rare moment where two stars, each with a strong and distinct identity, merge into a single musical expression.

The arrangement was reworked specifically for television, emphasizing the live vocal blend and giving the song a celebratory, almost theatrical feel. The performance is still widely shared today as one of Bowie’s most accessible and charismatic TV appearances.

The Infamous Medley

After Young Americans, Bowie and Cher launched into an ambitious medley covering:

• I Got You Babe
• Song Sung Blue
• One
• All I Really Want to Do
• Can You Hear Me? (Bowie)
• and more…

Though stylistically chaotic, the medley showed Bowie’s range and willingness to experiment. It also highlighted his connection to American pop traditions, even when filtered through irony and theatricality.

Live Performances & Locations

• 1975 – CBS Television Studios, Los Angeles
• The Cher Show – Season 3
• Shot before a live studio audience

Surviving Video

The complete performance survives in high quality and remains one of the most-watched Bowie collaborations online.

Historical Importance

Bowie’s collaboration with Cher was more than a TV appearance — it symbolised his entry into American mainstream entertainment while preserving his experimental character. It also introduced millions of viewers to the soul-infused direction he would explore on Young Americans.

For Cher, the duet reinforced her reputation as a versatile performer capable of adapting to the style and charisma of any guest. Together, they created one of the most memorable television moments of the 1970s.

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