Summary (tl;dr)

The music icon Prince is trending due to the 10th anniversary of his passing and the release of a previously unheard song, "With This Tear," from his vault. Major commemorative events are also planned for June in the Twin Cities.

Essential Background

Prince Rogers Nelson, known globally as Prince, was a highly influential American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He tragically passed away on April 21, 2016, at the age of 57 from an accidental fentanyl overdose at his Paisley Park home in Chanhassen, Minnesota, leaving a monumental legacy in music history.

The Full Story

Today, April 21, 2026, marks the 10-year anniversary of Prince's death. To commemorate this significant milestone, his estate has released a new, previously unheard song titled "With This Tear." This intimate piano ballad, recorded by Prince in November 1991, was originally written by him and later given to Celine Dion, who released her version in 1992. The release of "With This Tear" is the first in a series of unreleased recordings expected from Prince's famously extensive musical vault.

In addition to the new music, a five-day "Prince Celebration 2026" event is scheduled from June 3-7, 2026, across Paisley Park, Minneapolis, and St. Paul, Minnesota, to honor his life and legacy. The celebration will feature concerts with former band members and collaborators, panel discussions, screenings, and exclusive access to unreleased music and rare concert footage. A highlight will be a free downtown block party and community sing-along in Minneapolis, which anticipates thousands of fans uniting in song.

Why It Matters

The renewed interest in Prince underscores his enduring impact and the global reach of his groundbreaking music and artistry, even a decade after his passing. The release of never-before-heard material from his vault offers fans new insights into his creative genius, while the large-scale commemorative events provide collective opportunities for fans and collaborators to celebrate and reflect on his profound cultural significance.

Geographic Location

• Chanhassen, Carver County, Minnesota, United States (Prince's death at Paisley Park; Paisley Park hosting Celebration 2026 events)
• Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota, United States (Celebration 2026 events including a block party and sing-along; First Avenue DJ Dance Kickoff Party)
• St. Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota, United States (Celebration 2026 events)
• Hollywood, Los Angeles County, California, United States (Glam Slam Benefit event)