Prince's family gather to mourn

Los Angeles - Prince's family have begun flying into Minnesota following his shock death.

The You Got The Look singer was found dead at his Paisley Park recording studio on Thursday, and though he was recently hospitalised with flu, his passing reportedly left his relatives "blindsided".

An insider told RadarOnline.com that family members have begun gathering at his mother Mattie Shaw's home in the state, with relatives flying in from across the country to support one another in their grief and also to plan funeral services for the Purple Rain hitmaker.

Prince's publicist confirmed the sad news earlier on Thursday.

They said in a statement: "It is with profound sadness that I am confirming that the legendary, iconic performer, Prince Rogers Nelson, has died at his Paisley Park residence this morning at the age of 57. There are no further details as to the cause of death at this time."

It was previously reported that authorities were called to a medical emergency at the Minnesota estate at around 09:43 but did not immediately identify that the body was that of the Little Red Corvette singer.

The shocking news comes after the singer was rushed to hospital on 15 April with a severe bout of flu, after taking a turn for the worse on his private jet after several weeks fighting the virus.

But the following day, he wanted to give fans "living proof" he was OK and made an appearance at a $10 dance party.

He didn't sing, but he did tell the crowd: "Wait a few days before you waste any prayers."

He also recently cancelled two shows due to illness.