A tribute to music legend David Bowie

Today we've all woken up to the tragic news of losing the legend David Bowie to cancer at the age of 69. Shooting to fame in the early 70's, Bowie was an iconic British singer, songwriter, musician and actor, well known for his androgynous appearance. His alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, threw him into the spotlight in the glam rock era and helped launch his career that went on to span 4 decades.

In the UK alone he was awarded 9 platinum album certificates, 11 gold and 8 silver, and across the pond in the U.S he gained 5 platinum and 7 gold certifications. His fame went global and throughout his career he's sold approximately 140 million records worldwide. Rolling Stone ranked in 23rd on their list of 'best singers of all time'. 

He was an absolute king of innovation, revolution and ignoring the masses' opinion. Here's some awesome facts about the pop star:

1. His permanently dilated pupil was down to a fight with his best friend over a girl, in which he was punched in the eye and never recovered. 

2. He turned down (yes, turned down!) two British honours including CBE in 2000 and knighthood in 2003.

3. He was the voice of character Lord Royal Highness on SpongeBob Squarepants in 2007.

4. His first ever saxophone was a gift from his mother and it was plastic.

5. He was the founder of "The society for the prevention of cruelty to long-haired men".

In honour of his life, we've got a Best of David Bowie playlist that will be free to sing for a week. Let him inspire you to find your own hidden Ziggy Stardust. 

Here's our favourite Bowie song, give it a listen and pay homage to the passing of a truly great British talent: