Dancing in the Street: David Bowie and Mick Jagger

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Jul 4, 2025

Join Bernard Doherty, the Live Aid press officer, as he shares insider stories about the unforgettable duet between music legends David Bowie and Mick Jagger at the 1985 Live Aid concert. Discover how the duo tackled potential technical issues with a recording of 'Dancing in the Street' in just 18 hours. Doherty unveils hilarious behind-the-scenes moments, like impromptu cricket games and anecdotes about the music video’s spontaneous filming. This collaboration not only delivered a magical performance but also united audiences for a noble cause.

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ANECDOTE

Quick Fun Duet Recording

Mick Jagger and David Bowie recorded their "Dancing in the Street" duet in about two hours before Live Aid.
They used a lighthearted approach, mimicking each other's music video moves for fun.

INSIGHT

Satellite Delay Foiled Live Duet

Satellite technology delay prevented a live cross-Atlantic duet at Live Aid.
Bowie and Jagger agreed not to mime or use a click track, so a live performance was abandoned.

ANECDOTE

Cricket Break and Iconic Cars

During a late-night video shoot, Mick Jagger initiated an impromptu cricket game to lift spirits.
Bernard Doherty's old Honda Civic appears in the video lineup of cars with headlights on.

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In July 1985, music legends Mick Jagger and David Bowie were asked to perform a duet with a twist at Live Aid, the biggest concert in pop history.

Utilising the latest satellite technology, Mick would perform on the US stage in Philadelphia, while David would perform on the UK stage at Wembley Stadium.

As the technical issues were being discussed, it soon became obvious that a half-second delay in the link between cities would prevent the live performance from happening, so a recording was planned instead.

A short list of songs was discussed before the duo finally settled on the Motown classic Dancing in the Street.

Live Aid press officer Bernard Doherty tells Des Shaw how the duet and video were recorded in just 18 hours and became a highlight of the benefit concert on 13 July 1985. A Zinc Media production.

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(Photo: Mick Jagger and David Bowie performing Dancing In The Street. Credit: Getty Images)