The King Bees
The King Bees were a London-based rhythm and blues band best known for launching the recording career of David Bowie, who at the time performed under his birth name Davie Jones. The group holds a unique place in Bowie’s history as the first band with which he released a commercially issued single.
Though short-lived, The King Bees marked Bowie’s transition from amateur beat groups to the professional music industry, providing his earliest experience of studio recording, label contracts and national exposure.
- Active: 1964
- Genre: Rhythm & blues, beat
- Notable release: “Liza Jane” / “Louie, Louie Go Home”
- Significance: Bowie’s first commercial single
Formation and early ambitions
The King Bees were formed in early 1964 as part of the booming London R&B scene, inspired by American blues artists such as Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. David Bowie joined the group as lead vocalist after responding to an advertisement seeking a singer with strong stage presence.
“Liza Jane” – Bowie’s first single
The band’s only official release, the single “Liza Jane”, was issued in June 1964 on the Decca subsidiary label Vocalion Pop. The song, written by Bowie under the pseudonym Davie Jones, showcased a raw R&B vocal style heavily influenced by American blues traditions.
The B-side, “Louie, Louie Go Home”, was a cover that aligned the group with the popular R&B repertoire of the time. Despite energetic promotion, the single failed to chart.
Promotion and media exposure
In an early display of self-promotion, Bowie wrote letters to music publications and record labels, famously declaring his ambition to become a star. These efforts resulted in modest press attention and demonstrate Bowie’s early understanding of image, narrative and publicity.
Breakup and aftermath
The King Bees disbanded later in 1964 following internal disagreements and the lack of commercial success. Bowie quickly moved on, forming The Manish Boys and continuing his rapid artistic evolution.
Legacy
Although their lifespan was brief, The King Bees occupy a foundational place in David Bowie’s career. The group represents the moment Bowie crossed the threshold from aspiring performer to recorded artist — a small but decisive step on the path toward one of the most influential careers in modern music.