We are devastated to report that we have lost one of the most significant artists to have ever graced our planet: Prince has passed away at the age of 57, according to the Associated Press.

This morning the iconic performer was found at his Paisley Park estate in Chanhassen, Minnesota. This development happened less than a week after he was admitted to the hospital for flu-like symptoms after making an emergency landing on a flight home from Atlanta.

Throughout his career, Prince Rogers Nelson released 39 studio albums. Just last year he released what would be his final records, HITNRUN Phase One and Two. Though his lasting musical legacy will be his untouchable, soulful album Purple Rain, Prince will also be remembered for the humanist that he was. Sometimes outspoken, sometimes understated, always inscrutable, Prince will forever live on in our hearts and our desire to break down barriers and simply express ourselves.

2016 has been the hardest year of my life to be a music fan, but at least I know that I am not alone in feeling this way. Though we are mourning for now, we will celebrate his life and work once the initial shock abates. Until then, we will be spinning his discography on repeat.

Thank you for everything, Prince. We will never stop dancing in the Purple Rain.

Image: Warner Brothers