Tyka Nelson, sister of music legend Prince and an accomplished singer herself, has passed away.
She is 64 years old.
According to the ‘Minnesota Star Tribune’, Nelson’s son, President Nelson, confirmed her death on Monday morning, November 4, although he did not provide details on the cause of death.
The last time Nelson performed in the Twin Cities was in 2008 at Bunkers. Ten years later, she last performed in Australia in 2018. According to the newspaper, she is in the process of writing her memoir.
Nelson was scheduled to perform a farewell concert in June 2024 at the Dakota, but fell ill before the show. She was chosen to host the event and sing a few songs, but did not do so and the show continued without her.
Nelson had a notable musical career, independent of her brother’s fame, releasing four albums and achieving success with her 1988 single, “Marc Anthony’s Tune”, a song said to be inspired by her love affair with Marc Anthony. Her work demonstrates her distinct talents and creative identity beyond her relationship with Prince, his only biological sibling.
Following Prince’s death in April 2016, Nelson took a dedicated role in honoring his legacy.
She accepted his American Music Award for Favorite Soundtrack on behalf of “Purple Rain”, delivering an emotional tribute that same year. In his speech, Nelson recognized Prince as a groundbreaking artist who had “the courage to be different”. She reflected on his aspirations, sharing that he always wanted to be recognized as “the world’s most prolific songwriter” – a goal he achieved with a catalog of 984 songs. “Prince defied the odds,” she said, describing how he rose from his roots in Minneapolis to become one of the most respected and beloved figures in music.
Upon accepting the award, Nelson vowed to preserve Prince’s legacy, and expressed gratitude on behalf of their family. She echoed her brother’s philosophy of unity and love, saying, “We… will keep this for you at Paisley Park, until we see you again. This is for you.” “
She leaves behind her husband, Maurice Phillips, and six children who will carry on her memory.
— Originally published on Enstarz.
Tags Prince, Death