Legendary rock star David Bowie,69, died of cancer

Singer David Bowie has died after a battle with cancer, at the age of 69 in secret for 18 months.

His son, Duncan Jones, confirmed the news and a statement was issued on his social media accounts.

“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.”

David released his new album last week, was known as the creator of glam rock. He was one of the most successful artists of the 20th century.

David Bowie was the Picasso of pop. He turned pop in a new direction in 1972’sThe Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, an album that fostered the notion of rock star as space alien.

A flood of celebrities and other public figures such as politicians and even the Archbishop of Canterbury rushed to pay tribute to Bowie.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “I grew up listening to and watching the pop genius David Bowie. He was a master of re-invention, who kept getting it right. A huge loss.”

Survivors include his wife, the model Iman, whom he married in 1992; his son, director Duncan Jones; and daughter Alexandria.