Legendary singer David Bowie has died at the age of 69 after battling cancer in secret for 18 months, the Daily Mail reports.

The star, who released a new album last week, was known as the creator of glam rock and was one of the most successful artists of the 20th century.

A spokesman for Bowie said Monday, January 11 morning: “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.”

His latest album Blackstar was released just last Friday, although Bowie had rarely performed or been seen in public in recent months.

Bowie's son Duncan Jones, also known as Zowie Bowie, confirmed the news, writing on Twitter: :Very sorry and sad to say it's true. I'll be offline for a while. Love to all."

Other stars paid tribute to the British singer - Sonic Youth's Kim Gordon tweeted: “So sad to hear of David Bowie dying x.”