The legendary musician Prince has passed away at the age of 57. The singer was found at his Paisley Park studio in Minnesota on Thursday morning, his publicist has said. An investigation is currently underway.
The sad news comes just days after Prince - full name Prince Rogers Nelson - was hospitalised with flu-like symptoms after performing in Atlanta. The Purple Rain singer was taken ill on his private jet, forcing it to make an unscheduled landing in Illinois. Prince was treated at a local hospital, but he was released from hospital three hours later and returned home to Minnesota.
© Photo: Getty ImagesMusician Prince has died at the age of 57
TMZ reports that authorities responded to a medical emergency at about 9.43am on Thursday. The Carver County Sheriff's department in Chanhassen, Minnesota confirmed there had been a death and said they were notifying next of kin.
Prince rose to fame in the 1980s, and has sold more than 100 million albums throughout his incredibly successful career. A multi-talented singer, songwriter and performer, Prince has recorded more than 30 albums, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe singer rose to fame in the Eighties and has sold more than 100 million albums
Fans around the world were shocked to hear of the musician's sudden death, with many celebrities taking to social media to share their condolences.
Katy Perry wrote: "And just like that... the world lost a lot of magic.Rest in peace Prince! Thanks for giving us so much..."
© Photo: Getty ImagesPerforming Purple Rain with Beyoncé at the Grammy Awards in 2004
Actor Antonio Banderas tweeted: "Purple Rain, become Purple tears. One more legend that says goodbye... RIP Prince."
Fearne Cotton commented on the shocking number of celebrities who have passed away in 2016, in a touching Instagram post. Sharing an old photo of Prince, she wrote: "In complete shock. 2016 seems to have opened up a strange portal where all true creatives and legends are crossing over to the other side. Thank you for the music Prince. Thank you for showing us your very best. So glad I got to see you live in London one year. RIP."
