David Bowie has confirmed plans to release a new studio album.

The singer will unleash 'Blackstar' on January 8 next year.

It will be preceded by a single of the same name on November 20.

The surprise news was revealed via Bowie's Facebook page on Sunday (October 25).

It wrote: "It can now be confirmed that ‘Blackstar’ is the forthcoming single and album from David Bowie.

"Contrary to inaccurate reporting on the sound and content of the album, only the following can be confirmed:

"The single will be released on November 20th and is not part of David’s theatre piece ‘Lazarus’. The album will be released on David’s birthday, January 8th 2016."

Bowie shocked fans in 2013 by releasing 'The Next Day' - his first album in ten years.

However, the elusive musician did not tour the record, with Isle of Wight Festival promoter Dave Giddings recently suggesting Bowie has retired from performing live.

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