Paul McCartney on Bowie: ‘I Treasure the Moments We Had Together’
Paul McCartney has issued a heartfelt statement on the death of rock icon David Bowie, who passed away Sunday at age 69 following a private, 18-month battle with cancer. “Very sad news to wake up to on this raining morning,” McCartney wrote on Instagram, paired with a charming picture of the two music legends taken by Linda McCartney in 1985. “David was a great star, and I treasure the moments we had together.
“His music played a very strong part in British musical history, and I’m proud to think of the huge influence he has had on people all around the world,” he continued. “I send my deepest sympathies to his family and will always remember the great laughs we had through the years. His star will shine in the sky forever.”
Though Bowie and McCartney never collaborated in the studio, the duo did share the stage at the 1985 Live Aid concert, with Bowie adding backing vocals to the former Beatle’s version of “Let It Be.”
Since the announcement of Bowie’s death, musicians across various genres – from the Rolling Stones to Kanye West – have shared condolences and reflections on his singular life and legacy.
“The Rolling Stones are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of our dear friend David Bowie,” the band tweeted. “As well as being a wonderful and kind man, he was an extraordinary artist, and a true original.”
“David Bowie was one of my most important inspirations, so fearless, so creative, he gave us magic for a lifetime,” West tweeted. “I pray for his friends and family.”
Art-rocker Annie Clark (St. Vincent) may have best summed up the music world mourning, simply tweeting, “NO.”