Just days after the release of his latest critically acclaimed album and his 69th birthday, David Bowie has died. The legendary songwriter, performer, and rock musician had been reportedly battling cancer for the past 18 months.
He passed away on Sunday, January 10.
“David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18-month battle with cancer,” reads a message on his Facebook page. “While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief.”
His son, Duncan Jones, confirmed the news on Twitter.
Very sorry and sad to say it’s true,” he tweets. “I’ll be offline for a while. Love to all.”
Bowie, considered one of the greatest songwriters ever, released his 26th and final studio album, Blackstar, on Friday. Listen to it below.
“He always did what he wanted to do,” writes longtime producer Tony Visconti. “And he wanted to do it his way and he wanted to do it the best way. His death was no different from his life — a work of Art. He made Blackstar for us, his parting gift. I knew for a year this was the way it would be. I wasn’t, however, prepared for it. He was an extraordinary man, full of love and life. He will always be with us. For now, it is appropriate to cry.”
Very sorry and sad to say it's true. I'll be offline for a while. Love to all. pic.twitter.com/Kh2fq3tf9m
— Duncan Jones (@ManMadeMoon) January 11, 2016