David Bowie was not only an American icon, but he was my friend.

David Bowie was born David Jones on January 8, 1947, but later changed his name to David Bowie further in his music career.

When I was kid, I watched the movie Labyrinth more times than I can remember. I was drawn in to the strange fantasy nature of the film, with unique characters and extraordinary creatures. At the center of the story was David Bowie, portraying Jareth, the Goblin King. I was completely immersed in his uncanny style and sense of charisma. He had a way to draw in almost anyone with his charm.

I became an avid fan of Bowie after watching this film and after listening to his music and seeing him appear in films and television series from The Man Who Fell to Earth, to Spongebob Squarepants.

Bowie had an ability to reinvent himself with a new style whenever he chose to. Regardless of what he changed into, the people loved it. Bowie remained a musical icon for longer than four decades.

Bowie had a remarkable career, whether it was through his record-breaking music career or his films. He has had many aliases throughout his career, branching from his space alien alter ego Ziggy Stardust, to his outlandish aristocrat as Thin White Duke.

David Bowie passed away on January 11, 2015 after 18 months of complications with cancer.

The fearless rockstar has inspired generations of musicians and left a mark on the music industry and the world. His legacy will live on forever and he will be dearly missed.