Prince Rogers Nelson, known simply as Prince, was an iconic American musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, multi-instrumentalist, and actor. Born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Prince was known for his flamboyant stage presence, extravagant fashion sense, and wide vocal range. His music blended a variety of genres, including funk, rock, R&B, new wave, soul, and pop. He is credited with pioneering the Minneapolis Sound, a funk rock subgenre that emerged in the late 1970s and 1980s. Prince released his debut album, "For You," in 1978 and gained widespread acclaim with albums like "1999," "Purple Rain," and "Sign o' the Times." His work often featured provocative lyrics and complex compositions. He was also known for his virtuosic guitar skills and extensive use of the synthesizer. Beyond his solo career, Prince was a talented producer and songwriter for other artists, contributing to the careers of acts like The Time and Vanity 6. He was outspoken about artists' rights and notoriously battled his record label for control over his music, leading him to temporarily change his name to an unpronounceable symbol during the 1990s. Prince's impact on music, as well as popular culture, was profound. His accolades include seven Grammy Awards, an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for "Purple Rain," and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Prince passed away on April 21, 2016, from an accidental fentanyl overdose at his Paisley Park home and recording studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence artists and entertain fans worldwide.