Trevor Bolder
Trevor Bolder was an English bassist best known for his role in David Bowie’s iconic backing band The Spiders from Mars. His melodic yet powerful bass playing formed a crucial part of Bowie’s early-1970s sound, particularly throughout the Ziggy Stardust period.
Together with Mick Ronson and Mick “Woody” Woodmansey, Bolder helped translate Bowie’s studio experiments into a forceful and coherent live presence.
- Born: 1950, Kingston upon Hull, England
- Died: 2013
- Instrument: Bass guitar
- With Bowie: 1971–1973
Early musical life
Trevor Bolder began his musical career in Hull, initially as a guitarist before switching to bass. His move to London placed him in the orbit of musicians connected to the city’s rapidly evolving rock scene at the dawn of the 1970s.
Joining the Spiders from Mars
Bolder joined David Bowie’s band in 1971, completing the core lineup that would soon become known as The Spiders from Mars. His bass work complemented Ronson’s guitar theatrics and Woodmansey’s driving drums, creating a tight and muscular rhythm section.
The Ziggy Stardust sound
During the Ziggy Stardust era, Bolder’s bass playing balanced simplicity with melodic intuition. Tracks such as Rock ’n’ Roll Suicide, Moonage Daydream and Hang On to Yourself relied on his steady, grounded lines to anchor Bowie’s dramatic vocal performances.
Live, his presence added weight and momentum, helping Bowie’s increasingly theatrical shows retain their rock foundation.
Life after Bowie
Following the dissolution of the Spiders from Mars in 1973, Bolder moved on to other projects before joining Uriah Heep in 1976. There, he enjoyed a long and stable career, becoming one of the band’s longest-serving members.
Later years and legacy
Trevor Bolder remained closely associated with the legacy of the Spiders from Mars, participating in reunions and tribute performances. His contribution to Bowie’s early 1970s work remains foundational — providing the low-end strength that allowed Bowie’s concepts and personas to soar.
As part of the Spiders from Mars, Bolder helped define one of the most influential live bands in rock history.