Sheila E's "heart broken" following Prince's death

The 58-year-old drummer - who worked with him on 'Purple Rain' and sang on 'Let's Go Crazy' and 'Erotic City', as well as performing in his live band -  tweeted: "My heart is broken. There are no words. I love you! (sic)"

Another of his collaborators, Sheena Easton, has issued a heartfelt statement on the shock news.

She said: "It is impossible to imagine him not being here. The world of music was forever changed the day he picked up his guitar. His talent was breathtaking, his heart was kind, and all of us have been blessed to have had a glimpse into this sweet and magical soul. Sheena"

Elsewhere, tributes have continued to flood in for the singer, with Madonna hailing him as a "true visionary".

Alongside an old photograph of them both, she wrote on Instagram: "He Changed The World!! A True Visionary. What a loss. I'm Devastated. This is Not A Love Song.(sic)"

Chaka Khan also shared a throwback picture as she mourned her "brother".

Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger has paid tribute to the "limitless" talent of the "startling" musician.

He said in a statement: "I am so saddened to hear the news. Prince was a revolutionary artist wonderful musician, and composer an original lyricist and a startling guitar player. His talent was limitless. He was one of the most unique and exciting artists of the last 30 years."

His bandmate Ronnie Wood is devastated by the loss of someone he considered a "friend".

'Hello' singer Lionel Richie admitted he will "miss" the singer.

He wrote: "I can't believe it, I'm in total shock. So many wonderful memories, I will miss him. #Prince (sic)"

Comic Chris Rock simply tweeted: "Say it ain't so", while singer-and-actress Jennifer Lopez posted: "Shocked and soooo sad!! #RIP PRINCE #music #legend #gonetoosoon."