[youtube]https://youtu.be/LinaI_-wwM8[/youtube]

Like many of us, Dream Theater’s Jordan Rudess was profoundly impacted by David Bowie and shocked by his sudden passing on Sunday. Unlike any of us, the keyboard player actually got to play with Bowie, working with him on 2002’s Heathen. Upon finding out of his death on Monday, he went to his studio and played a beautiful piano version of Bowie’s “Space Oddity.” It’s a really touching tribute to the Thin White Duke from someone that’s had the opportunity to work with him. Here’s what Rudess said.

Here is my musical tribute to the iconic David Bowie, who, thanks to my friend Tony Visconti, I had the great experience to work with back in 2002 on theHeathen album. Here is his classic song, “Space Oddity,” played in my home just this morning (January 11th) after hearing the very sad news.

The only thing that takes away from the somber mood and the beautiful interpretation is that goofy Dream Theater wizard’s hat in the background, but we’re willing to let it slide.