Tyka Nelson, Celebrated Singer and Sister of Prince, Passes Away at 64
Tyka Nelson, renowned as “the most famous unknown singer,” made her mark in the music industry while navigating the legacy of her iconic brother, Prince. She embarked on her own four-album recording career and was instrumental in promoting Prince’s legacy following his passing in 2016. Tragically, she passed away on Monday in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, at the age of 64. The news of her death, which occurred in a hospital, was confirmed by her son, President Nelson, who did not specify a cause.
Born Tyka Evene Nelson on May 18, 1960, in Minneapolis, she was the only full sibling of the legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson. Her father, John L. Nelson, was a factory worker who also performed as a jazz pianist under the name Prince Rogers, while her mother, Mattie (Shaw) Nelson, was a talented jazz singer.
Tyka launched her music career with the release of her debut album, “Royal Blue”, in 1988. This album showcased her smooth, adult contemporary sound and explored themes of love and relationships. Critics were quick to draw comparisons between her and other notable artists such as Anita Baker, Sade, and Laura Nyro, reflecting her unique vocal style and musical sensibilities.
By the time Tyka began her own music journey, her brother had already been revolutionizing pop music for nearly a decade with his eclectic blend of funk, rock, R&B, and his distinctive flair for the color purple. In her 1988 debut, “Royal Blue”, the Minneapolis Star Tribune noted the artistic depth of her work, likening her to the greats of her genre.
However, Tyka often found herself grappling with the unavoidable comparisons to her brother’s monumental success. In a heartfelt interview with Australian television in 2018, she recounted a moment of prayer, asking, “Please, God, why can’t I sound like CeCe Winans?” referring to the acclaimed gospel artist. She humorously noted that while others might say she resembled Winans, it was never her intention. Still, she added, “If there’s anyone you can compare me to, c’mon, you might as well compare me to the best, right?”
Tyka Nelson’s journey in the music world, while often overshadowed by her brother’s legendary status, remains a testament to her talent and determination to carve out her own identity in the industry.
