David Bowie Dies From Cancer Aged 69

A spokesperson has confirmed that the musician passed away today

David Bowie has passed away at the age of 69. The musician had been quietly battling cancer for eighteen months. This morning a message went up on his website confirming he had died peacefully at his home surrounded by friends and family.

"David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer" the message read. "While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief."

The news will come as a shock to the music world and his legions of fans across the globe. Widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his generation, Bowie's Ziggy Stardust spearheaded the glam rock movement and influenced countless popstars who followed him, including Lady Gaga and Lorde to Jay Z.

A few years ago the V&A paid tribute to the star in a massive retrospective of his career, David Bowie is, which included handwritten lyrics, costumes and Bowie's own instruments. It became the most-visited exhibition in the museum's history.

Bowie's death comes just two days after the release of his 25th album, Blackstar, on January 8th - which is also his birthday.

A notoriously private man, Bowie had made no public statement about his cancer. His publicist, Duncan Jones, tweeted to confirm that Bowie had passed away this morning. "Very sorry and sad to say it's true. I'll be offline for a while. Love to all."