David Bowie's legacy not forgotten at Brit Awards

David Bowie was the big winner at the 2017 Brit Awards.

The late star - who passed away in 2016 after a secret battle with cancer - beat The 1975, Michael Kiwanuka, Kano and Skepta to win the MasterCard British Album of the Year award for his album 'Blackstar' at the ceremony at London's O2 this morning.

Noel Gallagher announced the winner and presented the award to David's son, director Duncan Jones.

Jones said: "I lost my dad last year but I also became a dad. And I was trying to work out what I would want my son to know about his grandad. He's always been there supporting people who think they are a little bit strange or different so this award is for all the kooks and all those who make the kooks. Thanks Brits."

Earlier, Bowie also won the British Male Solo Artist award, beating Craig David, Skepta, Kano and Michael Kiwanuka and Michael C. Hall accepted the gong on his behalf from presenter Zane Lowe.

Speaking about the icon, Hall - who starred in 'Bowie's 'Lazarus' musical - quipped that he wouldn't have attended the Brits even if he was alive.

He said: "If David Bowie could be here tonight, he probably wouldn't be here tonight. But I am here tonight on behalf of his family to accept this testament to a man beholden to nothing but his own imagination."

Hall went on to praise Bowie, saying: "His vitality soothes us and I'm honoured to stand before you and celebrate his work. David's kindness, generosity and enthusiasm will inspire me to be a better man."

Emeli Sande won British Female Solo Artist, Adele was presented with the Global Success Award, British Group went to The 1975 and International Group and Male and Female Solo Artist went to A Tribe Called Quest, Drake and Beyonce.

Ed Sheeran and Stormzy wowed the crowd with a collaboration on Shape of You, while Coldplay also teamed up with The Chainsmokers before Brits Icon Robbie Williams closed the show.

Brit Awards 2017 Winners:

MasterCard British Album of the Year: David Bowie - 'Black Star'
British Single of the Year: Little Mix - 'Shout Out To My Ex'
British Male Solo Artist: David Bowie
British Female Solo Artist: Emeli Sande
British Group: The 1975
International Group: A Tribe Called Quest
British Breakthrough Act: Rag'N'Bone Man
International Male Solo Artist: Drake
International Female Solo Artist: Beyonce
British Video: One Direction - 'History'
Critics' Choice Award: Rag'N'Bone Man

- NZ Herald