Just days after his 69th birthday, influential singer song-writer David Bowie has died from cancer.
The Space Oddity singer reportedly died peacefully surrounded by family.
His son director Duncan Jones released a statement on social media this afternoon.
“David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18-month battle with cancer,” it said.
“While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief.”
Bowie is best known for hit albums including Heroes, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and Hunky Dory.
He found fame after his first song, Space Oddity was released in 1969 and quickly climbed the music charts.
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The song, which told the story of astronaut Major Tom, was released in time to coincide with the Apollo 11 launch and was used by the BBC in its coverage of the moon landing.
Bowie released his 25th album, Blackstar on January 8 this year, which coincided with his birthday.
More to come.
