Prince’s sister, Tyka Nelson, has passed away at 64, leaving fans and family heartbroken. Known for her unique style and strong personality, Tyka made a name for herself outside her legendary brother’s shadow. Her family shared the sad news, honoring her spirit and creativity.
The world has lost another cherished member of the legendary Prince family, as Tyka Nelson, the iconic musician’s younger sister, passed away at 64.
Known best for her own creativity, Tyka left a unique legacy and was beloved by family and fans alike.
The news broke on Facebook from her cousin Charles “Chazz” Smith, who confirmed the loss:
“Our family is very saddened to share the news of my cousin Tyka Evene Nelson who passed away this morning.” Her son, President Nelson, later confirmed the news, though he didn’t give details about her passing.
Tyka’s story was always unique. She made her mark as an artist, releasing four albums between 1988 and 2011.
Her debut, Royal Blue, set the tone, and she continued with Yellow Moon, Red Sky in 1992, A Brand New Me in 2008, and Hustler in 2011. Music was always part of her life, though she admitted that her true passion was writing.
“I really wasn’t a singer,” she told the Minnesota Star Tribune this past summer.
“I’m a writer. I just happen to be able to sing,” she shared. She had planned a farewell concert in June but fell ill, so the show went on without her.
She was also writing a memoir, planning to share more of her life story with fans.
Tyka had a complicated relationship with her famous brother. In an interview with Rolling Stone, she once said she didn’t want her career linked to Prince’s.
“Because I’m a songwriter, I never wanted his name to affect mine… I never wanted my name associated with him,” she once confessed.
But after his passing in 2016, everything changed. “When he died and the entire world lit up in purple, there was no questioning it,” she shared.
“I am amazed… fans shared their stories about what Prince did in their lives, through his music,” she added.
Though she eventually embraced Prince’s legacy, Tyka remained fiercely independent.
“She had her own mind,” her sister, Sharon Nelson, shared. “She’s in a better place.”
Tyka sadly leaves behind her six children: President LenNard, Danielle, Crystal, Rachard, Sir Montece, and Chelsea, and her husband, Maurice Phillips.
Right now, there’s no official word on her cause of death.
For those who loved Prince, Tyka’s sudden loss feels like another link gone. But she’ll be remembered for her own contributions, her talent, and for the impact she made.
