So far 2016 has been a year of loss for the music industry, with the sad deaths of icons such as David Bowie and Motorhead’s Lemmy still fresh in our minds. To the sorrow of many, news broke today that influential and multi talented musician Prince has passed away aged just 57.
Tributes have already flooded in for the illustrious singer, who found widespread fame with timeless hits such as Purple Rain, When Doves Cry and Kiss. After selling over 100 million records across the world, Prince remains to be one of the best selling artists of all time. His death has come as a shock to the world, with the singer previously appearing to be in good health – having only finished his Hit And Run tour last year and released two albums in late 2015, titled HITnRUN Phase One and HITnRUN Phase Two.
Madonna, Mariah Carey, Boy George and President Barack Obama are among those to have paid tribute to the iconic 80s star whose career had spanned over 40 years, well known for his inimitable style and provocative lyrics.
"Today, the world lost a creative icon." —@POTUS on the passing of @Prince: https://t.co/MTb3nKxruR pic.twitter.com/gowq1MExM3
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 21, 2016
He Changed The World!! A True Visionary. What a loss. I'm Devastated. This is Not A Love Song. pic.twitter.com/x4JaSxRraC
— Madonna (@Madonna) April 21, 2016
Details of Prince’s death are still unclear, however it has been reported that he was discovered in an elevator at his home of Paisley Park estate in Minnesota. Prince allegedly had been suffering from flu like symptoms and had been forced to make an emergency landing in Illnois last week due to ill health, however appeared at a party the following day and reassured fans, saying “Wait a few days before you waste any prayers”. This was shortly after what was to be his very last performance on stage, which took place on Thursday 14th April in Atlanta.
As speculation surrounding the singer’s death arises, it’s essential to remember the star as he lived and to celebrate his life by continuing to listen to the music that helped to define a whole generation. Rest in peace, Prince.
