Gerry Leonard is BOSS!

Ahead of my upcoming conversation with Gerry Leonard this Saturday, I want to highlight his reflections on co-writing “Boss of Me” with David Bowie for The Next Day. As the only musician to share a writing credit with Bowie on that album, Gerry’s account offers a glimpse into Bowie’s songwriting process—one that was intuitive, spontaneous, and full of creative energy.

Gerry Leonard, for those who may not be familiar, is an accomplished guitarist, producer, and composer. He played a crucial role in Bowie’s later work, contributing to Heathen, Reality, and The Next Day, as well as serving as musical director for the A Reality Tour. Outside of Bowie’s orbit, he has worked extensively with Suzanne Vega and released his own atmospheric, evocative music as Spooky Ghost. Soon, he will be taking part in multiple events at the Dublin Bowie Festival, including a discussion with Gail Ann Dorsey, Mike Garson, and Mark Plati, as well as a performance with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra at 3Arena.

The story of Boss of Me began in a small upstate New York studio—specifically, Gerry’s own home. At the time, Bowie was re-emerging after years away from the public eye, quietly crafting The Next Day with a trusted circle of collaborators. One day, after an invitation for coffee, Bowie asked Gerry if he had a drum machine. A simple question, but for a musician like Bowie, it signaled intent. They weren’t just going to chat—they were going to create.

Gerry recalled how, after an initial writing session, Bowie left, and he found himself noodling around with an idea. He hammered out a riff, laid down a beat, and assembled a rough demo. The next time Bowie visited, Gerry played it for him. Bowie’s response? Play it again. That was all it took. In that moment, “Boss of Me” was born.

Bowie’s approach to songwriting was fluid. He didn’t sit down with pre-written lyrics or a structured plan. Instead, he responded to the music in real time, shaping melodies instinctively. Gerry noted that Bowie had the phrase “boss of me” almost immediately, and while much of the song’s lyrics would come later, the foundation was set within those early sessions.

There has been speculation over the years about the song’s meaning—some believe it was inspired by Bowie’s relationship with Iman, particularly the line about a small-town girl. Gerry didn’t confirm that outright, but he did acknowledge that Bowie had a knack for channeling personal and universal themes into his work. The song’s origins, however, were simple: a guitarist experimenting with an idea, and a legend recognizing its potential.

This Saturday, I will be speaking with Gerry about his work with Bowie, including “Boss of Me.” For those attending the Dublin Bowie Festival, he will also be offering more insights into his collaborations with Bowie. Whether on stage with an orchestra or in conversation with fellow Bowie alumni, his presence ensures that Bowie’s creative spirit continues to be celebrated.

And if there’s one takeaway from his “Boss of Me” story, it’s this—when David Bowie asks if you have a drum machine, the correct answer is always yes.