June 7, 2024
Prince performing in 2015. (Photo by Karrah Kobus/NPG Records via Getty Images)
The world was left in shock and disbelief on April 21, 2016, when news broke of Prince’s untimely death. The legendary musician, known for his electrifying performances and groundbreaking music, died from an accidental overdose of fentanyl at his Paisley Park estate in Chanhassen, Minnesota. His passing, at the young age of 57, sent shockwaves through the music industry and beyond. Fans mourned the loss of an icon, while fellow musicians grappled with the void left by a true innovator.
In the wake of his death, much speculation arose regarding Prince’s health in his final days. While his team maintained that he was battling the flu, a new interview with his sister, Tyka Nelson, sheds light on the musician’s struggles and offers a poignant glimpse into his state of mind during that difficult time.
A Musical Chameleon and His Inner Circle
Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson, was more than just a musician; he was a musical force of nature. His unique blend of funk, pop, R&B, and rock transcended genres, captivating audiences worldwide. He was a master of reinvention, constantly pushing creative boundaries and challenging musical norms.
Despite his larger-than-life persona on stage, Prince was notoriously private when it came to his personal life. He kept a tight inner circle, and his family remained largely out of the public eye. Among those closest to him was his sister, Tyka. As his only full sibling, they shared a special bond, and her insights into his final days provide a rare and intimate look at the man behind the music.
A Troubling Performance and Cancelled Concerts
Just days before his passing, Prince was scheduled to perform two shows at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre as part of his “Piano & A Microphone Tour.” The tour, known for its stripped-down, intimate setting, highlighted Prince’s raw talent and connection with his audience. However, the Atlanta shows were abruptly canceled due to what was reported as a severe case of the flu.
On April 14, 2016, Prince took the stage in Atlanta for what would be his final performance. Despite his reported illness, he delivered an electrifying set, showcasing his signature energy and musical prowess. He captivated the audience with beloved classics like “When Doves Cry” and a haunting rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “A Case Of You.” Little did anyone know that this powerful performance would be his last.
Prince was one of the most electrifying performers of all time. (Photo By John Leyba/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
A Harrowing Flight and Evasive Answers
Following his Atlanta performance, Prince boarded a flight back to his hometown of Minneapolis. During the flight, he became unresponsive, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing. While initial reports suggested dehydration, the incident raised concerns about the musician’s well-being.
Tyka Nelson, in her recent interview, revealed that she spoke to her brother shortly after the emergency landing. She sensed something was amiss but couldn’t quite put her finger on it. “A couple of times I said, ‘How are you really?'” Tyka recalled, noting that while she noticed he had lost weight, Prince was evasive about his health. “He didn’t go into anything with me. That was bothering me, and he knew it was… but that was all he wanted to tell me.”
Reconnecting with Family and a Sense of Urgency
In the days that followed, Prince and Tyka’s conversations were filled with a sense of urgency. He seemed determined to reconnect with family members, asking Tyka to track down contact information for his half-sister, Sharon. “It was like, ‘Send this picture to that person.’ ‘OK. What for?'” Tyka shared, puzzled by her brother’s uncharacteristic requests.
Despite his outward demeanor, Prince seemed to be grappling with something internally. “He kept avoiding questions,” Tyka revealed. “I kept getting mad. I felt like, ‘Talk to me for two seconds.’ He’d change the subject, make a joke, and then we’d both laugh.” Their final conversation, a phone call just days before his death, ended with Prince asking Tyka to gather more information about their family history.
A Legacy Remembered
Prince’s death sent shockwaves throughout the music world, a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact artists have on our lives. His passing marked the loss of a musical genius, a visionary artist whose influence continues to resonate today.
Tyka Nelson’s recollections offer a poignant glimpse into the final days of a music icon, revealing a man who, despite his struggles, remained deeply connected to his family and passionate about his craft.
