Recollections from a Legendary Night: Nate Mendel Reflects on Foo Fighters’ Experience at David Bowie’s 50th Birthday Bash

In January of 1997, David Bowie celebrated his 50th birthday in grand style, hosting an unforgettable bash at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden. This wasn’t your typical birthday affair; instead, it was a star-studded extravaganza featuring performances from Bowie himself, alongside a lineup of musical luminaries including Robert Smith, Frank Black, Billy Corgan, Kim Gordon, and Lou Reed. Among the performers that night were the Foo Fighters, still a relatively young band at the time. For bassist Nate Mendel, it was a milestone event that left a lasting impression.

Reflecting on that historic evening, Mendel recalled a mix of emotions. It marked the last performance with their original drummer William Goldsmith, a pivotal moment as they stepped onto the Madison Square Garden stage for the first time, and their inaugural meeting with Bowie himself. Amidst recording their album “The Colour And The Shape,” the opportunity to participate in Bowie’s birthday celebration was both exhilarating and surreal.

Backstage, amidst the buzz of excitement and nerves, Mendel found himself surrounded by musical legends. Despite the intimidation, the atmosphere was surprisingly supportive. Bowie, in particular, exuded grace and approachability, instantly putting the band at ease. However, amidst the aura of camaraderie, Mendel couldn’t help but have his perceptions challenged when he stumbled upon a scene straight out of rock ‘n’ roll lore – witnessing a rock legend indulging in cocaine in the bathroom.

While Mendel chose not to reveal the identity of the individual, the surreal encounter left a lasting impression. It was a moment that shattered the mystique surrounding the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, bringing to life something he had only read about in books. Despite the surreal nature of the experience, Mendel approached it with a mixture of fascination and bemusement, acknowledging it as yet another unexpected facet of the legendary evening.

In hindsight, Mendel cringes at the famous photo capturing Bowie and his esteemed guests, including himself. Seated directly behind Bowie, Mendel finds himself clad in a conspicuously oversized white button-up shirt, a fashion faux pas that stands out amidst the sea of black attire worn by the rock luminaries. It’s a moment that his wife occasionally revisits with amusement, serving as a reminder of the quirks and imperfections that make memories truly unforgettable.

However, amidst the occasional embarrassment, Mendel cherishes the memories of the performance itself. Despite the pressure and magnitude of the occasion, the experience proved to be exhilarating and enjoyable. Playing alongside Bowie, mere feet away from the music legend, Mendel savored every moment, reveling in the realization of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Ultimately, the performance at Bowie’s 50th birthday bash remains a cherished memory for Mendel and the Foo Fighters. It was a night of firsts, of milestones, and of unforgettable encounters with musical royalty. As Mendel reflects on that legendary evening, he acknowledges the impact it had on him personally and professionally, forever etching itself into the annals of rock ‘n’ roll history.

Watch footage from the performance here: