Tyka Nelson, the only full sibling of the legendary Prince, has passed away at the age of 64, according to family members.
Her son, President Nelson, confirmed the news to the Minnesota Star Tribune, revealing that his mother passed away on a Monday morning. While he didn’t dive into the details surrounding her death, the weight of this loss is felt deeply within the family and the music community.
Tyka’s cousin, Charles “Chazz” Smith, also took to Facebook to pay tribute to her, stating, “Our family is very saddened to share the news of my cousin Tyka Evene Nelson who passed away this morning.”
Tyka was not just known as Prince’s sister; she was a music writer and performer who carved her own path in the industry. She also played a significant role in preserving his legacy after his death. She was heavily involved in transforming Paisley Park, their brother’s recording studio and late-night concert venue. Under her guidance, it transitioned from a private space into a museum that celebrates Prince’s life and artistry.
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This wasn’t just about keeping the lights on; it was about ensuring that the world remembers the impact Prince had on music, culture, and the hearts of fans everywhere.
Following Prince’s passing in 2016, Tyka became one of the six siblings and partial siblings recognized as his legal heirs. The family faced unimaginable pain when they lost Prince, who was found dead in his Paisley Park estate on April 21, 2016. An autopsy revealed that he had died from an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a powerful opioid that took too many too soon. For Tyka and her family, navigating the aftermath of such a loss was no easy feat.
Tyka leaves behind her two sons, President and Sir, along with her sisters Sharon and Norrine Nelson, and her brother Omarr Baker. The family now faces another wave of grief, as they remember her spirit and contributions to music and family.
As of now, the cause of Tyka’s death hasn’t been disclosed.