in memoriam

Barack and Michelle Obama Mourn Prince, ‘Creative Icon’

The President and the Prince. Photo: Getty Images

As everyone mourns the loss of Prince, so too must the president of the United States. President Obama released a statement today on behalf of himself and his wife, First Lady Michelle Obama, saying that the world “lost a creative icon.” Read the full statement below:

Today, the world lost a creative icon. Michelle and I join millions of fans from around the world in mourning the sudden death of Prince. Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent. As one of the most gifted and prolific musicians of our time, Prince did it all. Funk. R&B. Rock and roll. He was a virtuoso instrumentalist, a brilliant bandleader, and an electrifying performer.

“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.

The Obamas Mourn Prince