Tyka Nelson, Prince’s sister, passed away on Monday at the age of 64. Her death, eight years after her brother Prince died in 2016, was shared by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. While no cause was given, Tyka had been experiencing health issues for some time. She had stopped performing but was working on her memoir before she passed.
Throughout her career, Tyka released several albums, including Yellow Moon, Red Sky (1992), A Brand New Me (2008), and Hustler (2011). She had planned to perform at a farewell concert at the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis in June but was too unwell to attend, so the concert proceeded without her.
Who Was Tyka Nelson?
Tyka Evene Nelson (May 18, 1960 – November 4, 2024) was an American singer and songwriter, best known as the sister of Prince, the legendary musician. Her parents were jazz musician John L. Nelson and jazz singer Mattie Della Shaw. Tyka was Prince’s only full sibling, but she also had seven half-siblings. After Prince’s passing in 2016, she accepted his American Music Award for Top Soundtrack. Tyka’s last public performance was in Australia in 2018, though she had hoped to perform again in June 2024.
Who Is Prince’s Biological Sister?
Prince’s only full sister was Tyka Evene Nelson. They shared the same parents, John L. Nelson and Mattie Della Shaw, both musicians. Tyka was a singer herself and had a career of her own, though she often supported her brother’s legacy. Along with seven other half-siblings, she remained a part of the family’s connection to Prince.
What Happened to Prince’s Father?
John L. Nelson, Prince’s father, passed away on August 25, 2001, at 85 in his home in Chanhassen, Minnesota. After his passing, Prince dedicated his song “A Case of U,” from his album One Nite Alone…, to his father in tribute.
Were Prince’s Parents Mixed Race?
Although both of Prince’s parents were Black, he often encouraged rumors that he was biracial. This helped him avoid being limited by racial categories, which could sometimes restrict an artist’s reach and earnings.
Who Was Tyka Nelson’s Husband?
Tyka Nelson was married to Maurice Phillips. Together, they had six children, including two sons named Sir and President. Tyka worked with her son President to help design Prince’s urn after his death. At the time of Tyka’s passing, her two sons and five grandchildren were her only known close family survivors.
Illness and Death
Tyka Nelson passed away at North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, on November 4, 2024, at 64. She had been dealing with health challenges since June 2024 and ultimately succumbed to her illness in November.