In Memoriam: David Bowie

I'm having trouble coming up with the right words to describe how I feel about the very unexpected news that David Bowie died this morning.

A statement posted to the singer's social media sites read “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.”

Some reaction from my friend Robin:

“Great. First Lemmy, now Bowie.

Fuck this shit. Seriously. Bieber is running around healthy and breathing, the Kardashians are all over the news everywere multiplying, and we lose two great musicians that severely affected the directions music went for DECADES within a couple weeks. I have too much DAMN IT in my mind right now. upset emoticon But at least they're having drinks together in that great glittery dive bar in the..wherever it is. R.I.P. Bowie.”

Other reactions:

“David’s friendship was the light of my life. I never met such a brilliant person. He was the best there is.” - Iggy Pop via Twitter

“as I'm sure you can imagine I'm gutted hearing of David's passing. He was the biggest influence & encouragement I could ever have wished for”- Yes' Rick Wakeman via Twitter

“So lucky to have met you!!!! Hot Tramp I love you So! ❤️ #rebelheart”- Madonna via Twitter

“Bowie existed so all of us misfits learned that an oddity was a precious thing. he changed the world forever.”- Guillermo del Toro via Twitter

“Words cannot express: RIP David Bowie”- Brian Eno via Twitter

“Not just upset by Bowie's death but disorientated: like I've woken up and the world is out of joint. I think I assumed he was immortal.”- Daniel Baddiel via Twitter

“Very sorry and sad to say it's true. I'll be offline for a while. Love to all.”- Bowie's son Duncan Jones, via Twitter.

Rest in Peace, sir.