David Byrne Shares His “Biking Playlist”

David Byrne, iconic frontman of Talking Heads and a long-time cycling enthusiast, has revealed a carefully curated playlist that accompanies his rides during a demanding international tour. Known for integrating his passion for bicycles into his lifestyle and creative output, Byrne has crafted this collection to reflect the varied sounds that inspire and refresh him in moments of solitude between performances.

The playlist, shared as part of Byrne’s ongoing radio project, features a broad spectrum of contemporary artists spanning genres and styles. Among those included are Olivia Rodrigo, Phoebe Bridgers, Mitski, Audrey Hobert, and St. Vincent, alongside celebrated musicians such as Paul McCartney and Harry Styles. This selection underscores Byrne’s expansive interpretation of pop music, which he views as a flexible concept rather than a fixed category.

Byrne’s commitment to cycling stretches back decades, having relied on the bicycle as his primary mode of transport in New York City since the early 1980s. His engagement with urban cycling culture is also evident in his 2009 publication, Bicycle Diaries, which blends travelogue with reflections on urban design and cultural landscapes encountered during his rides.

Moreover, Byrne’s influence extends into city infrastructure, having contributed designs for bike racks installed in New York City in 2008 and 2012. This personal connection to cycling informs the practical approach taken on his current "Who Is the Sky? Tour," where both Byrne and his band travel with folding bikes, allowing them to explore new cities by bike whenever schedules allow.

The setlist for this "Biking Playlist" mirrors Byrne’s philosophy that the boundaries between mainstream and alternative music are fluid and often challenged by innovative artists. He highlighted that the tracks included vary from widely recognized hits to more niche offerings that conform to pop’s format without fitting traditional mainstream molds.

Currently, Byrne is in the midst of a prolonged touring cycle that commenced in September 2025. The tour has maintained a positive atmosphere among the band and crew despite its length, with upcoming dates covering major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America. Scheduled performances include stops in Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Berkeley, Los Angeles, Mexico City, and conclude in New York’s Forest Hills Stadium in September 2026.

This global itinerary not only showcases Byrne’s enduring relevance in the music world but also his adaptability and personal approach to life on the road. The inclusion of a thoughtfully assembled playlist for cycling interludes offers fans insight into the soundtrack that supports his creative and physical journeys.

While the playlist is available through major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, Byrne’s tour continues to garner attention both for its artistic merit and its integration of his personal cycling passion. The combination of live performances and curated listening experiences presents a multifaceted engagement with music and movement.

Details about the full scope of the playlist and Byrne’s reflections on the evolving landscape of pop music provide a glimpse into the mindset of a veteran artist still exploring new avenues. This approach further cements David Byrne’s status as a multifaceted figure whose work transcends music to encompass culture, urban life, and personal expression.