Daring Duo Confess To Changing Street Sign To Honor David Bowie

DOWNTOWN AUSTIN-UT, TX -- The mystery behind the downtown David Bowie sign has been solved.

In the wake of the rock icon’s death on Sunday, someone this week surreptitiously altered an existing street sign to honor the late artist.

The sign near the intersection with West Fifth Street already bore, conveniently enough, the surname “Bowie” but in honor of Alamo defender James Bowie. What’s more, officials in the city widely regarded as the “live music capital of the world” didn’t authorize the alteration.

On Friday, those behind the tribute bandit sign came forward, reports the Austin American-Statesman.

Roland Swenson, co-founder of South by Southwest, and Austin sign maker Jason Carter took full responsibility for installing the makeshift sign.

“It really took off in a way I didn’t expect or imagine,” Swenson told the newspaper, referring to the wide support the faux sign engendered--and the smattering of repudiation from Alamo battle history buffs.

Swenson’s attorney said his clients came forward to save police time and resources in having to investigate the matter. A police official previously said those responsible might face misdemeanor theft and criminal mischief charges.

The case galvanized Bowie fans throughout the city, many of whom descended upon the spot of the changed sign to snap pictures.

Even Billboard magazine--that veritable bible of all things music--chimed in while lauding the city for not taking immediate punitive action.

The self-unmasking of those responsible ends two days of citywide intrigue centered on speculation as to who was behind the daring caper.

For their part, the two Young Americans responsible, still relishing in their 15 minutes of “Fame,” expressed no regrets over their actions.

“It’s good for the city and it’s been fun,” Swenson said.

>> Photo by Tony Cantu