Mick Rock, David Bowie's Official Photographer, Dies at 72

Known as "the man who shot the '70s," Rock created many of the most iconic images of Bowie

BY Kaelen BellPublished Nov 19, 2021

Mick Rock — David Bowie's official photographer and the man commonly said to have "shot the '70s" — has died at 72. 

The news was confirmed in a statement from Rock's representative that described the photographer as a "psychedelic renegade" and a "photographic poet." No cause of death was shared. 

Rock photographed Queen, T. Rex, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, Blondie, the Talking Heads and many more over the course of his career. He created many of David Bowie's most iconic images, including his Ziggy Stardust era and the cover of 1973's Pinups. He also directed the videos for "Space Odyssey," "Life on Mars?," "Jean Genie" and "John, I'm Only Dancing."

Rock leaves behind his wife and daughter.  

Read the statement announcing Rock's passing and revisit his video for "Life on Mars?" below. 
 

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