One of popular music’s most iconic and mysterious figures, Prince, has been found dead at his home in Minnesota. He was 57.
The cause of death has not been confirmed, but TMZ reports that the star died at his Paisley Park compound early on Thursday morning.
Update: Prince’s publicist has since verified the news.
“It is with profound sadness that I am confirming that the legendary, iconic performer, Prince Rogers Nelson, has died at his Paisley Park residence this morning at the age of 57,” they said.
The pilot of Prince’s plane was forced to make an emergency landing last week during a flight home from Atlanta, after which the artist was taken to hospital.
A spokesperson subsequently said he had the flu.
Prince, full name Prince Rogers Nelson, has sold over 100 million records worldwide.
Amongst a litany of accolades, he has won seven Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award.
Prince released his first album, For You, in 1978 but made his real global breakthrough in 1982 with the 1999 album.
His most celebrated work includes 1984’s Purple Rain, 1986’s Parade, 1987’s Sign O’ The Times and 1991’s Diamonds and Pearls.
Tributes are already pouring in from the world of entertainment.
Madonna posted an Instagram image of her with Prince, captioned: “He Changed The World!! A True Visionary. What a loss. I’m Devastated. This is Not A Love Song.”
Lionel Richie tweeted: “I can’t believe it, I’m in total shock. So many wonderful memories, I will miss him.”
And Chaka Khan, who had a huge hit with Prince-penned track I Feel For You in 1984, said: “I LOVED him, the world LOVED him. Now he’s at peace with his Father.”
Quincy Jones called Prince “a true artist in every sense of the word”, while Brian Wilson commented: “I’m shocked to hear that Prince passed at such a young age. Musically, he could do it all: sing, play, arrange and produce.”Music Business Worldwide
