Tyka Nelson, the sister of legendary musician Prince, has passed away at the age of 64. According to The Mirror, her death comes just three months after she was unable to attend a farewell concert for her late brother due to ongoing health issues. While the exact cause of her death remains undisclosed, her family confirmed the sad news to the media.
Her son, President Nelson, verified the news, while her cousin, Charles “Chazz” Smith, shared a heartfelt post on Facebook. “Our family is truly saddened to share the news of my cousin Tyka Evene Nelson who passed away this morning,” wrote Smith. Tyka’s sister, Sharon Nelson, also shared her grief with the public, expressing, “She had her own mind. She’s in a better place now.”
Fans of Prince and Tyka took to social media to express their condolences. On X (formerly Twitter), one fan tweeted, “Just hearing that Tyka Nelson, sister of music legend #Prince, has passed away. Let our hearts be with the family during this difficult period.” Another shared, “Respect, condolences, gratitude; and a purple heart.” Many expressed heartfelt sentiments, hoping Tyka rests in peace and sending support to the entire Prince family.
Tyka, who was set to perform at a tribute concert at the Dakota in June, could not attend due to her illness. Her last public performance was in 2018 in Australia, capping off a career that included the release of four albums between 1988 and 2011.
Tyka’s passing marks another chapter of loss for the family, following her brother Prince’s tragic death in 2016 from an accidental fentanyl overdose at 57. Tyka leaves behind her two sons, President and Sir; her sisters, Sharon and Norrine; and her brother, Omarr Baker.