David Bowie has died at the age of 69 after an 18-month battle with cancer.

The news came through the artist’s Facebook page and was later confirmed by his son, Duncan Jones, on Twitter.

“January 10 2016 – David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer,” a statement said. “While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief.”

Bowie died just two days after the release of his new album, Blackstar.

Bowie’s longtime producer Tony Visconti said his death “was no different from his life – a work of Art.”

“He always did what he wanted to do. And he wanted to do it his way and he wanted to do it the best way. His death was no different from his life – a work of Art. He made Blackstar for us, his parting gift. I knew for a year this was the way it would be. I wasn’t, however, prepared for it. He was an extraordinary man, full of love and life. He will always be with us. For now, it is appropriate to cry.”

Bowie’s film director son Duncan Jones shared the news with a childhood photo.