The 2016 Brit Awards, the annual pop-music ceremony of the British Phonographic Industry, will honour the life and work of David Bowie at this year’s show with a 'supergroup' of musicians taking to the stage to play a medley of the rock star’s hits.
Noel Gallagher, Damon Albarn, Bono, Coldplay, and Adele are among the acts expected to participate in next month’s ceremony, which will be hosted by Geordie duo Ant and Dec at London’s O2 arena.
“A few artists approached the Brits to ask if they could be involved in the David Bowie tribute as they want to make sure it is done properly. He was a British icon and they want to provide a credible farewell which can honour that,” an insider told the Sun.
“The band will be full of musicians who grew up with Bowie and were inspired by him, meaning artists like Noel, Damon and Bono. The organizers are putting everything into it. If they get it right, it will be epic.”
Bowie passed away on January 10th at the age of 69, following a battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Iman and son Duncan Jones, a film director.
The Brit Awards chairman Max Lousada confirmed that this year’s gala would include a tribute to the late pop star when the nominations were announced last week.
“David Bowie was one of the most important and influential songwriters and performers ever and, like so many fans around the world, we’re devastated to hear of his loss,” Lousada said, according to Metro.
“A visionary and ground-breaking pioneer, he has inspired generations of musicians and will continue to shape music for many years to come. Naturally, we wish to honor his extraordinary life and work at the forthcoming Brit Awards and pay a fitting tribute to one of our greatest icons.”
