Legendary artist David Bowie has passed away aged 69 following an 18-month battle with cancer.

The 'Starman' singer's death was confirmed this morning by his son, director Duncan Jones. A post on the official Facebook page said:

“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.”

Only last week did Bowie release his 25th and final studio album, Blackstar on his 69th birthday.

Dua Lipa has announced a string of UK live shows for early 2016.

The 7-date headline tour is set to start later this month in Bristol at the Louisiana, followed by stints in Brighton, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham and finishing up in February in London at Oslo Hackney.

The London songstress has performed an exclusive session of her acclaimed single 'Be The One' for the BBC's Sound of 2016 Youtube channel. You can watch that here.

Dua will release her debut album in spring 2016.

Full 2016 UK Tour Dates:

16.01.16 Bristol, Louisiana

17.01.16 Brighton, The Hope

26.01.16 Glasgow, O2 ABC

27.01.16 Manchester, Soup Kitchen

29.01.16 Birmingham, Sunflower Lounge

30.01.16 Nottingham, Stealth

02.02.16 London, Oslo Hackney