Born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Prince grew up in a musical home as both his parents were both jazz musicians.
Prince’s debut solo album, “For You,” was released in 1978.
Prince exuded an individual sense of style even during his early years.
An early promotional shot of Prince
Prince’s second solo album was self-titled, released in 1979.
A promotional image, taken in the 1970s
Prince rocked the world with “Purple Rain” in 1984 — both the album and movie.
Prince, dressed as The Joker, performs his single “Batdance” from the 1989 “Batman” movie soundtrack.
Prince performs at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 8, 2004, in Los Angeles.
Beyonce Knowles and Prince perform at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 8, 2004, in Los Angeles.
Prince and his then-wife Manuela Testolini sit in the audience at the 35th Annual NAACP Image Awards in Hollywood on March 6, 2004.
Prince performs at the 10th Anniversary Essence Music Festival at the Superdome on July 2, 2004 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Prince speaks onstage during the 2015 American Music Awards on Nov. 22, 2015, in Los Angeles.
