The Man Who Fell To Earth Leaves It; Bowie Dead At 69

Rock icon David Bowie, the man of as many faces as he had songs, has died at 69 his family confirmed Monday.

No cause of death was given, though publicist Steve Martin confirmed that Bowie had been battling cancer.

Bowie, whose music provided the background for a generation of seekers and the inspiration for a wave of younger artists who cited his creativity, artistic flair and drive as the motivation for their own careers, released his latest album “Blackstar” on Friday – his birthday.

Bowie’s music includes standards such as Let’s Dance, Space Oddity, Starman, Modern Love, Heroes, Under Pressure, Rebel, Rebel and Life on Mars.

He was also well known for creating his flamboyant alter ego Ziggy Stardust.

He had been living in New York in recent years.

Blackstar, which includes just seven songs, has been well received by critics and was intended as a “parting gift” to the world, according to long-time friend and producer Tony Visconti.