The surprising death of David Bowie, who just released a new album titled “Lazarus”, has sparked tributes and expressions of grief from fans, contemporaries, and faith leaders. Bowie died peacefully at 69 following a private 18 month battle with cancer, surrounded by friends and family.
Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi offered a tribute via Twitter.
Ground Control to Major Tom Commencing countdown, engines on Check ignition and may God’s love be with you (David Bowie)
— Gianfranco Ravasi (@CardRavasi) January 11, 2016
Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, told BBC4 about his memories of Bowie’s music.
“I’m very, very saddened to hear of his death.
I remember sitting listening to his songs endlessly in the ‘70s particularly and always really relishing what he was, what he did, the impact he had.”
More tributes and reporting are available on the BBC site.
Bowie’s latest release, Lazarus, was released on Friday and intended as a parting gift for fans; the video and lyrics depict how he lived his life as he neared death.
Lazarus video: