By Martin Ramirez/ south news editor

While the world mourns the death of musician Prince, many of the generation that came after the 1980s are left scrolling through tributes for an artist they don’t really know — an artist that has impacted their lives without them knowing it.

Even though social media has exploded with various ways to pay tribute to Prince, some don’t know enough about him to mourn his passing. It is understandable. While older generations had the opportunity to listen to Prince and experience his new form of music as it was released, many young people only know him through their parents or the news. Some may have not known him at all.

Prince has been called a trailblazer of music. His work spanned rock, funk and jazz. He sold more than 100 million records and was an arranger and multi-instrumentalist. Throughout his career, he was secretive and eccentric, once changing his name to an unpronounceable symbol. It’s no surprise such a unique artist inspired many current artists.

After Prince’s death was announced, multiple musicians paid homage to him and voiced his influence on their careers. On social media, Justin Timberlake said Prince was “the ultimate artist.” Lady Gaga posted how Prince influenced her music, especially her album Born This Way. Various celebrities also thanked Prince for his presence and impact.

Prince has influenced many modern musicians. Without him, many of these artists would not have a career. Musicians like Maroon 5, Bruno Mars and Alicia Keys have covered his songs throughout their careers. Other artists who have been vocal about Prince’s power include the Weeknd, Usher, Beck, Miguel and St. Vincent. Beyonce, Janelle Monae and Lenny Kravitz have all performed and worked with him.

Prince’s legacy will live on. Although some have not heard his music, they have heard him through the many artists and music he has inspired.

Prince may be dead, but his music is very much still alive.