After battling cancer for the last 18 months, legendary musician David Bowie has passed (January 10).

The 69-year-old singer’s death was confirmed in a Facebook post from his official page:

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

Bowie’s son also confirmed the news writing on his Twitter:

The influential singer-songwriter and producer, is most recognized for his contribution in glam rock, art rock, soul, hard rock, dance pop, punk and electronica during his eclectic 40-plus-year career. He is also known for his experimentation with alter egos such as Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane and the Thin White Duke. Bowie recently celebrated his birthday, January 8, with the release of his 25th album, Blackstar.

Bowie remained low profile in the recent years after reportedly suffering a heart attack in the 2000s, as his last live performance was at a 2006 charity show in New York. David Bowie is survived by his wife and model Iman, with whom he had a daughter Alexandria Zahra Jones and film director son Zowie Bowie from a previous marriage.

His label, Columbia Records, issued a statement on Bowie’s death:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of David Bowie. It was an honor and a privilege to release his music to the world.”