The World Lost A Creative Icon – Obama Pays Tribute To Singer Prince

BEVERLY HILLS, April 22, (THEWILL) – President Barack Obama has added his voice to the millions of voices around the world mourning the sudden death of iconic singer, Prince.

In a statement released a few hours after news of the late singer's death broke, Obama described him as one of the most gifted and prolific musicians of our time.

“Today, the world lost a creative icon. Michelle and I join millions of fans from around the world in mourning the sudden death of Prince. Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent.”

“As one of the most gifted and prolific musicians of our time, Prince did it all. Funk. R&B. Rock and roll. 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. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his band, and all who loved him.”

According to TMZ , his body was discovered at his Paisley Park Prince’s estate in Paisley Park in Chanhassen, Minnesota, early Thursday morning. Prince had been in and out of the hospital hours back after he had a medical emergency while aboard his private jet on his way to a concert.

The pilot promptly made an emergency landing in Illinois where he was then rushed to the hospital. Prior to this incidence, he had cancelled two other shows due to medical emergencies. He however made an appearance at a concert the next day to assure fans he was fine. He told the crowd: “Wait a few days before you waste any prayers.”

According to his reps, he was only battling with the flu.

A source told E! News  Prince “has been sick since his plane had to have an emergency landing,” adding, “He was very religious and adamant about not taking any sort of medication.”

The Carver County Sheriffs Office confirmed to NBC News that there was a fatality this morning at his house and in the emergency dispatch call obtained, “male down, not breathing,” could be heard.

Prince was touring and recording right up until his death, releasing four albums in the last 18 months.

Asides scooping 7 Grammys, Prince also won an Academy award. He also performed at the 2007 Super Bowl which has since been toted one of the greatest live performances of all time.

He died at the age of 57.