David Bowie, rock ’n’ roll’s chameleon, died on Sunday in New York City only two days after turning 69. It is a huge loss for all who appreciate the work of a true artist.

“Genius is an over-used word but I think musically, creatively, artistically David Bowie was a genius,” British Prime Minister David Cameron said.

Mr. Bowie’s unique personas, strong images, and artistic style unleashed a new breed of rock to the world that was unpredictable, daring, and powerful.

He was not just a rock star—he was a pop star, an art rocker, a folk singer, and a movie star. He was an all-around artistic force. His constant transformations into characters that resembled his current musical style immersed the listener into his music in a way that no other artist could.

It added a very theatrical element to the music that gave the listener a more personal connection with the characters and themes Mr. Bowie tackled.

His beautiful storytelling and theatrics are especially evident in his seminal 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars. The album tells the story of Mr. Bowie’s glittery and passionate alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, who is a messenger for extraterrestrial beings.

The album, widely considered by critics to be one of the greatest rock albums of all time, gave fans a blend of blues, glam rock, and pop that melded into a story that was far out and unpredictable, yet beautiful and masterful.

Mr. Bowie’s ability to immerse the listener into his music and characters was only amplified by his incredible live performances, which combined Mr. Bowie’s music with his riveting portrayal of various characters in eccentric stage shows.

Mr. Bowie was a truly unique artist who grabbed the attention of millions. He was a true master of his craft, creating the soundtrack to the lives of a generation.

His legend promises to carry the legacy far into the future, even if Mr. Bowie has, in spirit, returned to the stars.