Tyka Nelson cause of death: What did Prince's sister die of aged 64?

Singer Tyka Nelson, sister of legendary musician Prince, has reportedly passed away at the age of 64. Her brother, President Nelson, shared the news with the Minnesota Star Tribune, though he did not provide details on the cause of death.

Tyka was known for her own musical achievements, having released four albums and gaining attention with her 1988 hit "Marc Anthony's Tune," a song inspired by a personal admiration for Marc Anthony.

"She had her own mind," Sharon Nelson, her sister, said. "She's in a better place."

In the years after Prince's passing in 2016, Tyka remained closely connected to his legacy, even accepting his American Music Award for Purple Rain's soundtrack.

Tyka is survived by her husband, Maurice Phillips, and their six children, leaving a lasting impact through her music and dedication to family.

"I'm getting older," Nelson said back in June. "I really wasn't a singer. I'm a writer. I just happen to be able to sing. I enjoy singing."

Tyka Nelson's journey

Born on May 18, 1960, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the daughter of jazz musicians John L. Nelson and Mattie Della Shaw. Tyka began her musical journey early, writing songs by the age of 10 and eventually mastering instruments such as the piano, guitar, bass and clarinet.

Throughout her career, Tyka released several albums, including "Royal Blue" (1988), "Yellow Moon, Red Sky" (1992), "A Brand New Me" (2008), and "Hustler" (2011). Her single "Marc Anthony's Tune" reached No. 33 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart in July 1988.

Despite her musical talents, Tyka faced personal challenges, including struggles with substance abuse. With support from her brother Prince, she sought rehabilitation in the early 2000s and successfully revived her music career thereafter.

In her later years, Tyka planned a farewell concert in June 2024, which was ultimately canceled due to health issues.