DJ AM found dead in a New York City apartment

The music world has lost another icon of sorts as disc jockey and Los Angeles club owner Adam Goldstein, or better known as DJ AM, was found dead in a New York City apartment Friday afternoon. As in many premature deaths of the famous, substances apparently played a role in the fatality.

There was no sign of foul play and a New York law enforcement official confirmed to the Associated Press that drug paraphernalia was found at the apartment. Several empty prescription bottles and a crack pipe were apparently found near the body.

AM's publicist released a statement that read "The circumstances surrounding his death are unclear. Out of respect for his family and loved ones, please respect their privacy at this time,".

Adam Goldstein was just 36 when he died but had become vastly popular in the music scene and was quite possibly the most famous DJ of his generation. He worked some of world's most exclusive parties, and demanded in excess of $25,000 a night for his services. He was a club owner and a former member of the rock band Crazy Town. He increased his public image when he engaged to Nicole Richie during her reality days and also dated actress/singer Mandy Moore.

It is a sad day indeed for the music world, another life lost far too young.