David Bowie was honoured at a special memorial concert in New York on Thursday night. Stars including Debbie Harry, Cyndi Lauper and former REM frontman Michael Stipe performed at Carnegie Hall, in the first of two tributes to the Ziggy Stardust singer.
While Blondie singer Debbie took to the stage to perform Starman, The Flaming Lips were joined by Star Wars character Chewbacca for a rendition of Life on Mars.
© Photo: Getty ImagesDebbie Harry performed at a memorial concert for David Bowie
John Lennon's son Sean Ono Lennon also joined the line-up at the sold out concert, where Michael Stipe performed David's famous hit Ashes to Ashes.
The concert was originally billed as a retrospective of David's incredible career, with a number of artists scheduled to take part and perform some of the musician's most famous songs. However after David passed away in January, organisers decided to go ahead with the show as a memorial concert instead.
© Photo: Getty ImagesCyndi Lauper also took to the stage at New York's Carnegie Hall
"This year's concert will certainly be remembered as a poignant celebration of his music by his friends, peers and fans," an announcement made on the venue's official website said. "We are all deeply saddened by this news. The timing of our public on-sale date is bizarre in its timing and the show is taking on many more emotions."
A second concert dedicated to the iconic musician is set to take place at Radio City Music Hall on Friday night, and will be streamed online for a recommended charity donation of £15. A diverse array of acts will be taking to the stage for the sold out show, including Mumford and Sons, Pixies and Bette Midler.
© Photo: Getty ImagesDavid Bowie passed away in January
The performances come just a week after it was confirmed that plans are in place to develop a permanent memorial to David in his hometown of Brixton. A mural which depicts David's Ziggy Stardust alter ego will be listed to ensure its protection, and it has even been suggested that the road it is on will be renamed to honour the much-loved musician.
