President Obama On Prince: He Was One Of The 'Most Gifted' Musicians

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- President Barack Obama is among the millions of people around the world mourning the loss of legendary Minnesota musician Prince.

"Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent," President Obama said.

The president goes on to call Prince one of the "most gifted and prolific musicians."

"Funk. R&B. Rock and roll. He was a virtuoso instrumentalist, a brilliant bandleader, and an electrifying performer," President Obama said. "'A strong spirit transcends rules,' Prince once said -- and nobody's spirit was stronger, bolder, or more creative. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his band, and all who loved him.‎"

Prince was found unresponsive Thursday morning in an elevator inside Paisley Park in Chanhassen. The Carver County Sheriff's Office says he was pronounced dead at 10:07 a.m.

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