On April 21, 2016, the music world was plunged into shock. Prince, one of the most influential and charismatic artists of our time, passed away suddenly at the age of 57.
His death was caused by an accidental overdose of fentanyl — an extremely powerful opioid that he apparently took without knowing its dangerous content. Legally, no evidence of foul play was found. Instead, the case highlighted Prince’s silent but serious battle with addiction, which he kept out of the public eye.
What happened before Prince's death?
Just a week before his death, he canceled shows in Atlanta due to illness, only to return to the stage for one final, heartbreaking performance. On the way back to his hometown of Minnesota, his private jet made an emergency landing, and he was administered Narcan — an opioid overdose reversal drug.
Despite the efforts of doctors and specialists, Prince was found unconscious on April 21, 2016, at his Paisley Park studio. He was pronounced dead 25 minutes later.
The Prince phenomenon and its legacy
Prince's loss has transcended the music community. From former President Barack Obama to Madonna, thousands have expressed their grief. Monuments around the world have been lit in purple — his iconic color.
With seven Grammy Awards, millions of records sold and worldwide recognition, Prince defined the pop, funk and R&B scene with his own unique style. Posthumous releases continue: compilations, unreleased tracks from his personal archive, reissues, even his transfer Purple Rain on Broadway.
In 2019, his autobiography was published The Beautiful Ones, a moving chronicle of his life with personal photographs, handwritten lyrics and memories.
Today, Paisley Park operates as a museum, open to the public who wish to experience firsthand the magic of a man who changed music — forever.
Prince may have left prematurely, but his work remains alive, enduring, and deeply human.
