Roger Ferris
Photo: Unknown photographer / Unknown Wikimedia Commons / Unknown — Wikimedia file page
Roger Ferris was a vocalist in The Konrads, the first band formed by David Bowie (then performing as David Jones) in the early 1960s.
As part of the group’s rotating line-up, Ferris participated in Bowie’s earliest live performances, contributing to the formative phase of Bowie’s development as a frontman and performer.
- Role: Vocalist
- Band: The Konrads
- Active with Bowie: c. 1962–1963
- Bowie connection: Early band member (first group)
The Konrads: Bowie’s first band
The Konrads were formed in 1962 and played guitar-based rock and roll at local youth clubs, community events and weddings.
The band featured a fluid line-up of young musicians, reflecting the informal nature of early teenage groups on the London scene.
Roger Ferris’ role
Roger Ferris joined The Konrads as a vocalist during this early period, sharing front-of-stage duties as the band experimented with presentation and repertoire.
Multiple vocalists were not uncommon in early beat groups, allowing members to trade songs and develop confidence on stage.
David Bowie’s emergence as frontman
During The Konrads era, Bowie was still learning how to command attention as a singer and performer.
Performing alongside other vocalists such as Ferris helped Bowie refine his sense of presence, projection and audience engagement.
Musical limitations and ambition
The Konrads’ musical style remained conservative, focused on straightforward rock and roll.
Bowie soon became frustrated by these limitations, seeking greater stylistic freedom and creative control.
The end of The Konrads
Bowie left The Konrads following disagreements over musical direction, bringing his collaboration with Roger Ferris to an end.
This departure marked Bowie’s first decisive step away from a band structure that no longer supported his ambitions.