Prince Dies At 57 & His Death Is Shocking — REPORT

The world was hit with tragic news on Thursday, April 21, with the news that famed musician and celebrated performer Prince has reportedly died at 57. According to TMZ, his body was found at his his Paisley Park compound in Minnesota early Thursday morning. His death comes shortly after a medical scare on April 15, when he was reportedly battling the flu.

The death of the beloved musician is rather shocking, despite his health issues recently. TMZ reported that the singer had been fighting the flu for several weeks, and had to cancel a few shows because of his illness. AP reported that he was hospitalized in Illinois on Friday, April 15. That didn't seem to stop him, though, since TMZ reported that Prince showed up for a show on Saturday, April 16, to do a show. He said reportedly told the crowd, "Wait a few days before you waste any prayers." In true Prince fashion, the show turned into a dance party.

There has yet to be a cause of death reported, but the Carver County Chief Sheriff's Deputy Jason Kamerud did confirm the death at Prince's estate. An autopsy has yet to be concluded, as well. AP released news that deputies were called to Prince's studio, and found him in the elevator. AP reports that CPR failed.

Prince Rogers Nelson (his birth name) is a celebrated artist for his many musical triumphs. He has earned seven Grammys throughout his career. His most recent Grammy was awarded the Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 2007 Grammys, while his first win dates all the way back to the 1984 Grammys when he won three awards for Best Rock Performances by a Duo or Group with Vocal, Best Rhythm & Blues Song, and Best Album of Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or a Television Special.

There was an obvious outpour on Twitter once the news broke. Many fans of the singer remembered him not only for all he did musically, but also for all he did as a performer and as an icon. Although his tragic death is shocking, it is inspiring to see just how many people he touched through his music and his time on Earth.

There is no doubt that Prince's music will continue to move people and affect lives. Even without his presence, he has left an everlasting footprint of artistic creation that we will cherish for many decades to come.