CRI听力:U.S. Pop Superstar Prince Dies at 57

The Carver County, Minnesota Sheriff's Office confirmed the death in a press release and says that Prince was found unresponsive in an elevator at his home studio before being pronounced dead.

The singer, songwriter, arranger and instrumentalist was widely acclaimed as one of the most inventive musicians of his era, drawing upon influences ranging from James Brown to the Beatles to Jimi Hendrix.

His hits included "Little Red Corvette," ''Let's Go Crazy" "When Doves Cry," and, of course, 1984's Purple Rain.

People are reacting with shock and disbelief at the death of such a legendary and influential pop music pioneer.

""I just can't believe it is true, I just can't believe it, I just can't believe he's gone, I can't breathe, I can't even talk."

"So honored to have been here Saturday night and I really felt like this is going to be great. We are going to do this for years, but now, he's left us. Right now, I am just kinda numb."

Fan Adm Philips reminds us that Prince was not only a legend in his own right, but also set trends that echoed throughout the music industry.

"This man was a trendsetter and an icon and a kingmaker and a queen maker. I mean vanity, Sheila E, work with Sheena Easton and everything and to not even make it to age 60 is incredibly sad."

Another fan, Sherma Moody, also calls this a devastating loss for the world of music.

"I am so saddened by his death. Prince was a legend and still is he's in our hearts today. It's devastating for the world of music and to everybody who cared about Prince and his family. My heart goes out to them."

Fans from far-flung places are also paying their respects.

Gordon Greystroke is one of them.

"He was a bit of a genius, wasn't he? That is sad to hear. I heard he took ill on a plane right? You guys wouldn't joke about a thing like that right? The guy played about 25 different instruments. He is tremendous."

Musician Sheila E., a former protégé of Prince, tweeted the words: My heart is broken. There are no words. I love you!"

Prince will be remembered not only for his incredible musical style, but also for an electrifying stage presence and, above all, for doing things just a little bit differently than everyone else.