Musician, artist and one of the most influential icons of all time, David Bowie, passes away after a silent 18-month battle with liver cancer. He just turned 69-years-old two days before his demise.
A statement was issued on various social media accounts of the icon, saying that he died peacefully and was surrounded by his family after battling cancer for 18 months. They also asked everyone to respect the family as they mourn the death of Bowie.
Known for his alter ego Ziggy Stardust, Bowie just released his latest album called Blackstar on his birthday, and is considered as a parting gift for everyone who showed love and appreciation for the artist, according to his long-time friend and producer Tony Visconti. "His death was no different from his life - a work of art. He was an extraordinary man, full of love and life. He will always be with us," Visconti wrote on Facebook.
Another one of the most influential musicians, Sir Paul McCartney, said that he would always remember and treasure all the great laughs and moments that they had together. "His music played a very strong part in British musical history and I'm proud to think of the huge influence he has had on people all around the world," McCartney added.
Brian Eno, a collaborator and a friend, said that David's death came as a complete surprise as did nearly everything else about him. Eno said that he feels a huge gap now. Another friend of the artist, Iggy Pop, wrote on Twitter how Bowie's friendship was the light of his life. Pop said that he has never met such a brilliant person and tyat Bowie was the best there is. In BBC Arts editor Will Gompertz's words, Bowie was the Picasso of pop. He was one of the greatest singers, songwriters, performers, actors, producers and collaborators who ever walked the earth.
