Iconic singer David Bowie dies of cancer at 69

NEW YORK (AP) — David Bowie, the innovative and iconic singer whose illustrious career lasted five decades with hits like "Fame," ''Heroes" and "Let's Dance," died Sunday after a battle with cancer. He was 69.

Representative Steve Martin said early Monday that Bowie died "peacefully" and was surrounded by family. The singer had battled cancer for 18 months.

"While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family's privacy during their time of grief," the statement read. No more details were provided.

Bowie turned 69 on Friday, the same day he released a new album called "Blackstar."

He had some of his biggest successes in the early 1980s with the stylist "Let's Dance," and a massive American tour.

Bowie kept a low profile in recent years after reportedly suffering a heart attack in the 2000s. He was married to international supermodel Iman since 1992.