David Bowie passes away aged 69 after 18-month battle with cancer
Legendary singer David Bowie has died aged 69 after an 18-month battle with cancer.
In a statement on Facebook, the singer's relatives asked for privacy during their time of grief, adding that he died peacefully surrounded by his family after a "courageous" battle.
The star's son, film director Duncan Jones, confirmed the news on Twitter.
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
The news comes just days after the singer released his latest album, Blackstar, which NME said "sprinkles stardust at every turn".
The album, which was released on Friday to coincide with his birthday, includes just seven songs.
Bowie's health has been the subject of rumours in recent years, after his final appearance in 2006.
Although his best-known songs including Life on Mars, Suffragette City and The Man Who Sold The World, Space Oddity was his first UK number one in 1975.
That was followed by number ones from Ashes to Ashes, in 1980, Under Pressure, in 1981, and Let's Dance, in 1983 – as well as Dancing in the Street, his tie-up with Mick Jagger.