David Bowie memorial concert confirmed

A tribute concert to the iconic singer's musical legacy was announced just hours before it was confirmed he had died from cancer yesterday and it has now been revealed the event at Carnegie Hall in 31 will still go ahead, but as a memorial instead.

A statement on the concert's official site read: "The unexpected death of David Bowie has made this tribute to him into a memorial concert.

"While the series has had the surprise appearances and performances of the honoree several times in the past, this one will certainly become a poignant honour of his music by his friends, peers, and fans. We are all deeply saddened at this news, the timing of our public on-sale bizarre in its timing, and the show is taking on many more emotions. RIP David and may gods love be with you..."

Bowie's longtime collaborator Tony Visconti is on board to take charge of the house band for the evening, while The Roots, Cyndi Lauper, Mountain Goats, Bettye Lavette, Robyn Hitchcock, Perry Farrell, Jakob Dylan and Heart's Ann Wilson are all scheduled to perform.

A number of other artists are also expected to take part to pay their respects to the 'Man Who Sold the World' hitmaker.

Proceeds from the memorial concert will benefit the Young Audiences New York, Little Kids Rock, Church Street School of Music, the Center for Arts Education, the American Symphony Orchestra and Grammy in the Schools. 

Visit the Carnegie Hall site for ticket information.