Marlyn Daggett's Listen to Music is an evocative, multi-layered oil painting infused with energy and rebellious spirit. The composition is a vibrant tapestry of colors—burnt oranges, bold yellows, deep blues, and pinks—juxtaposed with surreal elements and textual fragments inspired by David Bowie's lyrics. Central to the canvas is the phrase “I’ll be a rock ‘n’ rollin' bitch for you,” boldly declaring an attitude of defiance and passion, echoing Bowie's boundary-breaking ethos.

One of the most striking features is the pink monkey bird, positioned mid-right, its gaze direct and mischievous. The monkey bird seems to serve as a symbolic figure, both playful and otherworldly, underscoring the fantastical undertones of the piece. Below the monkey with wings, text such as “Drink me” hints at a surreal, almost psychedelic experience. The painting feels like a visual conversation between music and art, filled with hidden meanings and lyrical references.

A fish swims across the bottom left, creating a sense of movement, while geometric blocks and partially obscured phrases like “The music that we hear” and “Love” suggest fragmented thoughts or memories, much like a song's verses intertwining with the listener’s emotions. Daggett’s use of line and form, especially in the deconstructed lettering and graphic elements, feels spontaneous yet deliberate, reflecting the raw power and improvisational nature of rock music.

Listen to Music captures the essence of Bowie's avant-garde influence, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences with music, rebellion, and identity. The painting vibrates with an electric charge, merging pop culture and fine art into an imaginative and deeply personal work.