Prince lives on in his work

Long time musical legend Prince was found dead in his home on April 21 after reports of an illness that caused his private plane to make an emergency landing in Illinois the previous week due to what appeared to be a reaction to his pain medication.

Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson, died at the age of 57 at his home and recording studio named Paisley Park in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The Carver County Sheriff’s Department said he was found unresponsive in an elevator and first responders were unable to revive him.

While an autopsy has been done, the cause of death has yet to be determined. According to authorities investigating the death, they found prescription opioid medication in his possession.

As more information unravels in the case, the most recent addition is that Prince was actually diagnosed with AIDS six months prior to his death, but refused treatment.

Prince was a singer, songwriter and producer. He also was a seven-time Grammy winner with numerous top 10 hits like “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Get Crazy,” “Little Red Corvette,” “Kiss” and “1999.” Prince starred in a 1984 film with the same name as his historical album “Purple Rain.”

Many celebrities and political figures have mourned the death of the legendary artist. One of them was President Obama, saying in a statement, “Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent.”

He added, “He was a virtuoso instrumentalist, a brilliant bandleader, and an electrifying performer. ‘A strong spirit transcends rules,’ Prince once said – and nobody’s spirit was stronger, bolder, or more creative.”

With over 40 unreleased Prince recordings in an archive that he called “The Vault,” it is unknown what will happen to them, but it is guaranteed there is artwork yet to be heard.