Prince has died. He was 57.
According to TMZ, the iconic pop artist was found dead this morning by staff at his Paisley Park compound in Minnesota. The Associated Press has also confirmed his passing, citing the artist’s publicist as a source.
Born Prince Rogers Nelson in 1958, the singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist was best known for his early ’80s hit albums Purple Rain and 1999. His music was rooted in the funk, soul, and unbridled sexuality throughout his nearly 40 year career.
Even early albums like Controversy and Dirty Mind remain perennial inspirations to generations of artists that came after him.
The last time we reviewed Prince was during his two-hour set at the Grove in Anaheim backed by his band 3rdEye Girl.
TMZ also reported that the singer had been rushed to a hospital in Illinois on April 15 for an unspecified medical emergency, but performed a concert at Paisley Park the following day. Sources close to Prince said he was battling the flu.
No cause of death has been determined at this time. More updates to come…
Rest in Purple, Prince.
