David Bowie Personality Type: MBTI, Enneagram, and Zodiac Sign

David Bowie was a legendary singer, songwriter, actor, and icon who transcended time and genres with his remarkable ability to reinvent himself throughout his career.

According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), David Bowie was an INFP personality type known as the Mediator. 

The imaginative and introspective qualities of the INFP personality type are evident in Bowie’s groundbreaking artistry, which spanned over five decades and resulted in an incredible legacy of music, fashion, and performance.

David Robert Jones, known as David Bowie, was born in Brixton, London, on January 8, 1947, to parents Margaret Mary “Peggy” Jones, a waitress, and Haywood Stenton “John” Jones, a promotions officer. 

From a young age, Bowie was drawn to the world of music and art, and at the age of 13, he began learning how to play the saxophone.

He soon started to play in various bands. In 1969, Bowie released the single “Space Oddity,” which launched him into stardom.

David Bowie was known throughout his career for his chameleon-like ability to adapt to various styles and personas, such as Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, and the Thin White Duke.

His innovative approach to music, fashion, and performance cemented his status as a cultural icon. 

His career spanned multiple decades and included numerous hit songs, albums, and film appearances.

In this article, we will explore David Bowie’s personality through the lens of MBTI, Enneagram, and Astrology, delving into his key personality traits, family life, work life, and social life.

What was David Bowie’s MBTI Personality?

David Bowie’s MBTI Personality was INFP, also known as the Mediator. This personality type is characterized by its strong sense of individuality, creativity, and introspection. 

Bowie’s INFP traits were reflected in his groundbreaking music, unique fashion choices, and constantly evolving personas throughout his illustrious career.

Creative expression

As an INFP, David Bowie had a deep connection to his emotions and could express them through his art. 

This personality type is known for its creativity and unique perspective on the world, which is evident in Bowie’s groundbreaking music, fashion choices, and on-stage personas.

Strong sense of individuality

INFPs are known for their strong sense of individuality and desire to be authentic. David Bowie consistently reinvented himself and created memorable personas throughout his career. 

He was never afraid to challenge societal norms and push the boundaries of artistic expression, which is a hallmark trait of INFPs.

Intuitive nature

INFPs are highly intuitive and rely on their gut feelings when making decisions. 

Bowie’s ability to anticipate trends and remain ahead of the curve in the ever-changing world of music and fashion showcased his strong intuition. 

He was able to tap into the zeitgeist and bring his unique vision to life in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Empathy and compassion

INFPs are deeply empathetic and compassionate individuals who often feel a strong connection to the emotions of others. 

David Bowie’s music often dealt with themes of alienation, loneliness, and the human condition, reflecting his ability to empathize with the struggles of others and express those emotions through his art.

Idealism

INFPs are known for their idealism and often strive to make the world a better place. 

David Bowie advocated for social change and used his platform to promote causes such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and environmentalism. 

His idealistic nature shone through his music and public persona.

Introversion

Although David Bowie was a magnetic performer on stage, he was known to be a private and introverted individual offstage. 

This is common among INFPs, who often require solitude to recharge and reflect. 

Bowie’s introspective nature allowed him to delve deep into his emotions and create the art that touched so many lives.

Adaptability

INFPs are known for their adaptability and ability to embrace change. David Bowie’s career was characterized by constant evolution and reinvention, both musically and visually. 

He was never content to rest on his laurels and always sought to explore new creative avenues. 

This adaptability is a key trait of the INFP personality type and contributed to Bowie’s lasting impact as an artist and cultural icon.

Which Subtype of MBTI was David Bowie?

For David Bowie, it can be argued that he exhibited characteristics of the “Healer” or “Dreamer” subtype within the broader INFP personality type.

The Healer subtype embodies the innate desire to mend and restore harmony in the world. 

Bowie demonstrated this through his advocacy for social change, including LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and environmentalism. 

His music often carried messages of hope, understanding, and the possibility of a better world.

As a Dreamer, Bowie was known for his vivid imagination and unique artistic vision. 

This aspect of his personality allowed him to create fantastical, otherworldly personas such as Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane. 

His ability to tap into a rich inner world and bring it to life through his music, fashion, and performances showcased the imaginative and visionary qualities often associated with the Dreamer subtype.

Key Personality Traits of David Bowie

Creativity

David Bowie was renowned for his incredible creativity, which he channeled into his music, fashion, and performances. 

His ability to constantly reinvent himself and experiment with new styles and genres made him a cultural icon.

Authenticity

Bowie always stayed true to his vision and never shied away from taking risks or challenging societal norms. 

This authenticity allowed him to connect with audiences on a deeper level, making him a beloved figure for many.

Intuition

Bowie was known for his strong intuition and ability to anticipate trends. This innate sense allowed him to remain at the forefront of the music and fashion industries for decades.

Empathy

As an INFP, Bowie was deeply empathetic and compassionate. 

His music often dealt with themes of alienation, loneliness, and the human condition, reflecting his ability to connect with the emotions of others.

Adaptability

Bowie’s ability to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances was a defining characteristic of his career. This trait allowed him to remain relevant and influential throughout his life.

David Bowie’s Personality in Family Life

Private nature

Despite his fame, Bowie valued his privacy, especially when it came to his family life. He preferred to keep his relationships and personal life away from the public eye.

Loving father

Bowie was a devoted father to his two children, Duncan and Alexandria. He made it a priority to be present in their lives and support their individual pursuits and interests.

Supportive spouse

Bowie’s marriage to Iman was one of mutual love, support, and respect. They were both fiercely protective of their relationship and fiercely supportive of each other’s careers.

Creative environment

Bowie fostered a creative environment within his family, encouraging his children to explore their own artistic interests and passions.

Strong family bonds

Despite his extensive career and demanding schedule, Bowie maintained strong bonds with his family and prioritized spending quality time with them.

David Bowie’s Personality in Work Life

Visionary artist

Bowie was a visionary artist who constantly pushed the boundaries of music, fashion, and performance. He was never afraid to take risks or explore new creative avenues.

Collaborative spirit

Bowie was known for his collaborative approach to music, working with a diverse range of artists and musicians throughout his career. 

This willingness to collaborate often led to innovative and groundbreaking projects.

Dedication to craft

Bowie was dedicated to honing his craft and always strived to improve and evolve as an artist. This commitment to growth contributed to his enduring success and influence.

Open-mindedness

Bowie’s open-mindedness allowed him to experiment with different genres, styles, and artistic mediums, which helped to keep his work fresh and innovative.

Strong work ethic

Bowie was known for his strong work ethic and tireless dedication to his art, often working long hours in the studio to perfect his music and performances.

David Bowie’s Personality in Social Life

Charismatic presence

Although naturally introverted, Bowie’s magnetic charisma drew people to him. His unique sense of style and engaging personality made him a fascinating figure within social circles.

Respectful listener

Bowie was a respectful listener and genuinely interested in the thoughts and opinions of others. This quality made him a sought-after conversationalist and friend.

Supportive friend

Bowie was known to be a supportive and loyal friend, always there to offer encouragement and advice to those close to him.

Advocate for change

In his social life, Bowie used his influence to advocate for social change and promote causes he was passionate about, such as LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality.

Cultural influencer

Bowie’s impact extended beyond his music and performances, as he became a cultural influencer in various social circles. 

His innovative approach to fashion, art, and personal expression inspired countless individuals to embrace their own unique identities and challenge societal norms. 

Bowie impacted the world around him through his social life, encouraging others to celebrate individuality and pursue their own creative paths.

Was David Bowie an INFP?

Yes, David Bowie was an INFP, also known as the Mediator personality type. As an INFP, Bowie displayed key traits such as creativity, authenticity, intuition, empathy, and adaptability. 

His groundbreaking music, innovative fashion, and constantly evolving personas are evidence of his INFP qualities, which allowed him to connect with audiences on a deeper level and leave a lasting impact on the world of art and culture.

Which Enneagram Type was David Bowie?

David Bowie was likely an Enneagram Type 4, the Individualist or the Romantic. 

As a Type 4, Bowie demonstrated a strong desire for self-expression, uniqueness, and emotional depth, evident in his artistic pursuits and personal life.

Authentic self-expression

As a Type 4, David Bowie was driven by the need to express his authentic self. 

This trait was reflected in his bold fashion choices and the creation of memorable personas like Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane. 

His willingness to take risks and push boundaries to pursue self-expression is a hallmark of the Enneagram Type 4.

Emotional depth

Bowie’s music often explored themes of loneliness, alienation, and the human condition, showcasing his emotional depth and introspection. 

Type 4s are known for their ability to delve into the complexities of emotions and create art that resonates with others on a profound level.

Search for identity

A key characteristic of Enneagram Type 4s is their ongoing search for identity and self-understanding. 

Throughout his career, Bowie continually reinvented himself, adopting various personas and exploring different genres, which can be seen as a manifestation of his quest for self-discovery.

Sensitivity and empathy

Type 4s are known for their sensitivity and empathy, which allows them to connect deeply with others’ emotions. 

Bowie’s empathetic nature was evident in his music and his advocacy for social causes such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and environmentalism.

Desire for uniqueness

Enneagram Type 4s have a strong desire to be unique and stand out from the crowd. 

Bowie’s innovative approach to music, fashion, and performance and his ever-evolving personas demonstrated his commitment to creating a distinct and memorable identity, ultimately solidifying his status as a cultural icon.

What was the Level of Development for David Bowie’s Enneagram Type?

While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact level of development for David Bowie’s Enneagram Type 4, it can be argued that he exhibited traits indicative of higher levels of development. 

At these levels, Type 4s are known for their creativity, self-awareness, and ability to inspire others.

Self-awareness

Bowie displayed a strong sense of self-awareness throughout his life, as evident in his constant reinvention and exploration of different personas.

Emotional resilience

Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Bowie demonstrated emotional resilience, continuing to create and express himself through his art.

Inspirational presence

Bowie’s unique artistry and groundbreaking work inspired countless artists across various fields, showcasing his positive influence.

Authentic connections

Bowie’s empathetic nature allowed him to form deep and meaningful connections with his fans and those close to him.

Dedication to growth

Bowie’s commitment to evolving as an artist and individual reflects his drive for self-improvement and personal growth.

What were the wings for the Enneagram type of David Bowie?

As an Enneagram Type 4, David Bowie would have two possible wings: Type 3 (The Achiever) and Type 5 (The Investigator). 

Bowie’s dominant wing was likely Type 3, with some influence from Type 5.

Type 3 Wing

Bowie’s ambition, drive for success, and focus on his public image suggests a strong influence from the Type 3 wing. 

His ability to adapt and reinvent himself throughout his career is characteristic of Type 3s, known for their resourcefulness and goal-oriented mindset.

Performative nature

Type 3s are often comfortable in the spotlight, and Bowie’s captivating stage presence and iconic personas align with this trait.

Striving for excellence

Bowie’s relentless pursuit of excellence in his art and performance reflects the Achiever’s determination and high standards.

Type 5 Wing

Bowie’s intellectual curiosity and introspective nature suggest some influence from the Type 5 wing. 

His willingness to explore complex emotions and engage with abstract concepts in his music aligns with the Investigator’s inquisitive nature.

Visionary thinking

The combination of Type 4’s emotional depth and Type 5’s intellectual curiosity likely contributed to Bowie’s visionary thinking and innovative approach to his art.

David Bowie’s Zodiac Sign & Birth Chart Analysis

Sun in Capricorn

Bowie’s Sun sign, Capricorn, signifies his ambition, determination, and drive for success. 

This placement contributed to his strong work ethic and ability to reinvent himself throughout his career.

Moon in Leo

The Moon in Leo reflects Bowie’s theatricality, passion, and desire for admiration. This placement fueled his creative expression and yearning for recognition.

Venus in Sagittarius

Bowie’s Venus in Sagittarius highlights his love for exploration, diversity, and adventure in his artistic pursuits. 

It allowed him to experiment with various musical genres and expand his creative horizons.

Mercury in Capricorn

With Mercury in Capricorn, Bowie had a practical and disciplined approach to communication, which translated into his well-crafted lyrics and storytelling.

Aquarius Ascendant

His Aquarius Ascendant signifies his originality, innovation, and ability to challenge convention.

This placement contributed to his unique style and ever-changing personas.

Mars in Capricorn

Exalted Mars in Capricorn gave Bowie the intensity and determination to succeed and overcome challenges, such as his battle with cancer.

Mars-Neptune Square

This aspect represents Bowie’s creative and rebellious nature, as well as his androgynous persona, Ziggy Stardust, and his ambivalent sexuality.

Venus conjunct Midheaven

This conjunction reveals Bowie’s ability to express his art and aesthetics in a way that brought him fame and recognition.

Uranus Quincunx Sun

This aspect highlights Bowie’s identity being indirectly expressed through constant change and numerous alter egos, contributing to his innovative and transformative career.

Aquarian Ascendant Appearance

Bowie’s Aquarian Ascendant is evident in his distinctive physical appearance, including his captivating eyes, which appeared to be different colors.

These key planetary positions and aspects in David Bowie’s birth chart offer insights into his creative genius, unique style, and influential career that continues to inspire generations of artists.

Compatibility: Ideal Personality & Zodiac Matches for David Bowie

Best Zodiac Matches for David Bowie

Taurus: A Taurus partner would provide stability and security to complement Bowie’s ambitious and creative Capricorn nature. They both share an appreciation for the finer things in life, such as art and music, which would create a strong bond between them.

Virgo: Virgo’s practical and detail-oriented approach would balance Bowie’s innovative and ambitious personality. Both signs value hard work and commitment, which would create a harmonious and supportive partnership.

Scorpio: Scorpio’s intensity and passion would resonate well with Bowie’s theatrical Leo Moon. This pairing would result in a deep emotional connection and a shared desire for personal growth and transformation.

Best MBTI Matches for David Bowie

ENFJ: As an INFP, Bowie would find a great match in an ENFJ partner. ENFJs are warm, supportive, and charismatic, which would complement Bowie’s introspective and imaginative nature. Together, they would create a nurturing and inspiring relationship.

INFJ: An INFJ partner would share Bowie’s introverted and intuitive qualities, leading to a deep and meaningful connection. Both types value authenticity and have a strong sense of purpose, making them ideal companions in their creative and personal journeys.

ISFP: An ISFP partner would appreciate and embrace Bowie’s artistic and innovative side. They love beauty and aesthetics, making them an excellent match for exploring and growing together creatively.

Best Enneagram Matches for David Bowie

Type 2 – The Helper: A Type 2 partner would provide the support and encouragement that Bowie would appreciate as a Type 4. Their nurturing and empathetic nature would help Bowie feel understood and valued.

Type 9 – The Peacemaker: A Type 9 partner would bring balance and harmony to Bowie’s emotional intensity. The Peacemaker’s easygoing and accepting nature would complement Bowie’s creative and passionate personality, creating a stable and loving relationship.

Type 6 – The Loyalist: A Type 6 partner would offer Bowie a sense of security and loyalty, which would resonate well with his ambitious Capricorn side. The Loyalist’s dedication and commitment to their relationships would create a strong bond with Bowie’s emotional depth and artistic nature.

How Did David Bowie’s Personality Affect His Career?

Embracing individuality and authenticity

David Bowie’s INFP personality and Enneagram Type 4 encouraged him to embrace his individuality and pursue his authentic self-expression. 

This led to the creation of iconic alter egos like Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke, which allowed him to explore different aspects of his identity while pushing the boundaries of music and fashion.

Constant reinvention

As an INFP and Type 4, Bowie was driven by a desire to continually reinvent himself and explore new artistic territory. 

This innate need for growth and transformation helped him remain relevant throughout his career, moving through various musical genres and styles while inspiring generations of artists and fans.

Deep emotional connection to his work

Bowie’s introspective nature allowed him to tap into his own emotions and create music that resonated deeply with his audience. 

His introspective songwriting often explored love, loss, and self-discovery themes, inviting listeners to connect with him personally and establishing a loyal fanbase.

Collaborative approach

Bowie’s INFP personality made him a natural collaborator, open to working with others and valuing their input. 

He formed lasting partnerships with fellow musicians, producers, and designers throughout his career, such as his work with Brian Eno, Iggy Pop, and Tony Visconti. 

These collaborations allowed him to expand his creative horizons and produce groundbreaking projects.

Balancing ambition and sensitivity

Bowie’s Enneagram Type 4, combined with his Capricorn Sun sign, allowed him to balance his sensitivity and emotional depth with a strong sense of ambition and determination. 

This enabled him to pursue his creative vision while being a savvy businessman, as demonstrated by the innovative Bowie Bonds concept. 

This unique balance between art and commerce helped Bowie achieve lasting success in the entertainment industry.

David Bowie’s Quotes That Reflect His Personality

“I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring.“

This quote reflects Bowie’s INFP and Type 4 personality traits of embracing change, individuality, and the desire for personal growth. 

It highlights his drive to continually explore new artistic territories and pursue the unknown.

“I’m always amazed that people take what I say seriously. I don’t even take what I am seriously.”

This quote demonstrates Bowie’s self-awareness and humility, which are characteristic of INFPs. 

It also shows his ability to not take himself too seriously, allowing him to experiment and innovate in his career.

“I’ve always felt bemused at being called the chameleon of rock. Doesn’t a chameleon exert tremendous energy to become indistinguishable from its environment?”

This quote speaks to Bowie’s self-reflective nature and awareness of his constant transformation. 

As an INFP and Type 4, he embraced his unique identity. He often chose to stand out rather than blend in, contrary to the chameleon metaphor.

“Tomorrow belongs to those who can hear it coming.”

Bowie’s forward-thinking approach is evident in this quote. 

As an INFP, he was attuned to the future, open to change, and always looking for ways to innovate, which played a significant role in his ability to maintain relevance throughout his career.

“You can neither win nor lose if you don’t run the race.”

This quote reflects Bowie’s ambition and determination, stemming from his Capricorn Sun sign. 

It emphasizes the importance of taking risks and actively pursuing one’s goals, which was crucial in his success as an artist and entrepreneur.

“I had to resign myself, many years ago, that I’m not too articulate when it comes to explaining how I feel about things. But my music does it for me, it really does.”

This quote showcases Bowie’s connection to his art as a means of self-expression. 

As an INFP and Type 4, he found solace in using music to convey his emotions and thoughts, allowing him to communicate with his audience on a deeply personal level.

“I’m just an individual who doesn’t feel that I need to have somebody qualify my work in any particular way. I’m working for me.”

This quote highlights Bowie’s strong sense of individuality and self-sufficiency, traits often associated with INFPs and Type 4s. 

It demonstrates his commitment to creating art for himself rather than seeking validation from others, which allowed him to maintain his authenticity throughout his career.

The Intersection of David Bowie’s Zodiac Sign and Personality Type

Creative Exploration

David Bowie’s Capricorn Sun sign and INFP personality type both contribute to his relentless drive for creative exploration. 

Capricorns are known for their ambition and determination, while INFPs are fueled by their vivid imagination and passion for self-expression. 

This unique combination allowed Bowie to constantly push boundaries, experiment with new artistic styles, and evolve throughout his career.

Deeply Emotional

Bowie’s Capricorn Sun sign and Type 4 Enneagram share an underlying emotional depth that manifested in his music and artistic endeavors. 

Capricorns are known for their strong, introspective nature, while Type 4 individuals often experience intense emotions. 

This emotional resonance is evident in Bowie’s lyrics, which frequently explore love, loss, and existentialism themes.

Individuality and Authenticity

As an INFP and Type 4, Bowie was driven by his desire for individuality and authenticity. 

He consistently sought out new artistic expressions and was unafraid to break societal norms or expectations. 

His Capricorn Sun sign reinforced this drive for authenticity, as Capricorns are known for their strong sense of self and dedication to their personal values.

Perseverance and Adaptability

Bowie’s Capricorn Sun sign and INFP personality type gave him the perseverance and adaptability necessary to navigate the ups and downs of his career. 

Capricorns are known for their tenacity, while INFPs are natural problem-solvers and open to change. 

This combination allowed Bowie to face challenges head-on and adapt to the ever-evolving music industry throughout his decades-long career.

Intuitive Connections

Both INFPs and Capricorns are intuitive individuals, capable of forming deep connections with others. 

In Bowie’s case, this manifested in his ability to connect with his audience through his music and performances. 

His Type 4 Enneagram further contributed to this connection, as Type 4s are known for their empathy and ability to express complex emotions. 

This powerful combination allowed Bowie to create music that resonated with fans across generations, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.

Who are Other INFP Musicians Besides David Bowie?

John Lennon: The former Beatles member and influential musician is often identified as an INFP. His introspective songwriting, deep emotional sensitivity, and strong desire for peace and understanding in the world align with the characteristics of an INFP personality type. Lennon’s ability to express his emotions through his music and connect with others on a deeper level is a hallmark of INFP musicians.

Kurt Cobain: The late frontman of Nirvana, Kurt Cobain, is another famous musician who is thought to have been an INFP. His introspective and deeply personal lyrics, along with his sensitivity and vulnerability, are classic INFP traits. Cobain’s music resonated with a generation of fans who connected with his raw emotional expression and desire for authenticity.

Björk: The Icelandic singer-songwriter Björk is known for her unique, experimental approach to music and her deeply emotional lyrics. These qualities, along with her strong sense of individuality and desire to connect with others through her art, suggest that she is an INFP. Like other INFP musicians, Björk’s work often explores complex emotions and personal experiences.

Tori Amos: Tori Amos, the American singer-songwriter and pianist, is often classified as an INFP due to her introspective lyrics, emotional depth, and strong sense of individuality. Her music often delves into personal experiences and emotions, and she’s not afraid to express her vulnerability through her songs. Amos’ ability to connect with fans on an emotional level and her commitment to authenticity are key INFP traits.

Jeff Buckley: The late singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley, known for his ethereal voice and emotionally charged songs, is believed to have been an INFP. His introspective lyrics, emotional vulnerability, and strong sense of individuality are all qualities that align with the INFP personality type. Buckley’s music continues to resonate with fans who appreciate his raw emotional expression and unique artistic vision.

How Can Fans Learn From David Bowie’s Personality?

Embrace Your Individuality

David Bowie’s unique personality and artistic expression can remind fans that embracing their individuality is essential. 

By staying true to his creative vision and constantly reinventing himself, Bowie showed us that breaking free from societal norms and expectations is possible. 

Fans can learn to embrace their own unique traits and find their own path in life rather than trying to fit into someone else’s mold.

Pursue Your Passions

Bowie’s unwavering dedication to his art and constant pursuit of new creative avenues can inspire fans to pursue their passions wholeheartedly. 

Whether it’s music, art, or any other endeavor, Bowie demonstrated the importance of following your dreams and staying committed to your craft. 

Fans can learn from his example by dedicating time and energy to their passions and never giving up on their goals.

Develop Emotional Resilience

Bowie’s career was filled with highs and lows, but his Capricorn Sun sign and INFP personality type helped him develop emotional resilience. 

By learning to navigate these challenges and stay true to his artistic vision, Bowie was able to bounce back from setbacks and continue to create groundbreaking work. 

Fans can learn from his example by building emotional resilience and finding healthy ways to cope with life’s ups and downs.

Cultivate Empathy and Connection

Bowie’s ability to connect with his audience through his music and performances demonstrates the power of empathy and connection. 

By exploring complex emotions and sharing his experiences, Bowie was able to create music that resonated with fans across generations. 

Fans can learn from his example by cultivating empathy and seeking to understand and connect with others in their own lives.

Embrace Change and Adaptability

One of the hallmarks of Bowie’s career was his ability to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing music industry. 

His willingness to take risks and explore new artistic styles allowed him to remain relevant and influential throughout his life. 

Fans can learn from Bowie’s example by embracing change and staying open to new experiences. 

By being adaptable and open-minded, we can continue to grow and learn from the world around us, just as Bowie did throughout his incredible career.