Prince

Prince (born June 7, 1958 – April 21, 2016) was an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He was a musical innovator who wrote numerous hit songs across different genres throughout his career. His work fused soul, funk, rock music, R&B and new wave to create a unique sound that gained him worldwide fame.

Early life and career beginnings

Born Prince Rogers Nelson in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Mattie Shaw and John L. Nelson Jr., Prince’s childhood upbringing included the influence of both jazz musicians from his mother’s side as well as Pentecostal preachers from his father’s side; this combination would later be reflected in much of his songwriting which often dealt with spiritual themes such as religion or love for God through sensuality. At the age of seven he began playing piano by ear before being formally instructed at 11 years old where he also learned how to play guitar among other instruments including drums and bass guitar; these skills would eventually form one third of what made him so successful musically during the latter part of 20th century popular culture due largely not only because they allowed him greater creative freedom but also enabled him perform live shows without having to rely on backup band members thus giving audiences more intimate experiences when seeing them onstage compared many artists today who require larger backing bands/ensembles behind them while performing even though those groups are usually still quite talented themselves nonetheless..

Record deals & mainstream success

In 1977 after negotiating a deal with Warner Bros Records label that granted unprecedented control over all aspects related production rights contracts royalties etc… It wasn’t long until 1980s when he released several albums filled with hits like “Little Red Corvette” “Let’s Go Crazy” “Kiss,” “When Doves Cry” -all becoming classics within their respective genres- firmly establishing himself commercially beyond just critical acclaim alone making sure any doubts about whether or not could crossover successfully into wider appeal were silenced once forevermore cementing place history amongst greats such Michael Jackson Madonna Cyndi Lauper Donna Summer Bruce Springsteen many others alike indeed..

Later life & legacy Throughout remaining decades prior passing away April 21st 2016 aged 57 due complications linked opioid overdose following up iconic 1984 album Purple Rain some collaborations movie scores continued produce material albeit limited fashion ultimately leaving behind vast catalogue works has been widely considered timeless masterpiece far reaching impact effects felt generations come since inspiring countless fellow performers inspired millions fans around globe whose admiration appreciation continues stand testament longstanding lasting power transcendent artistry created lifetime worthwhile listening enjoyment pleasure whom we should never forget nor take granted lest knowing our world little less bright without presence dearly departed beloved star known simply us: PRINCE!