Those We Lost: 3 Most Shocking Musical Deaths of 2016

In a year of immense tragedy, the deaths of Prince, George Michael, and David Bowie were among the most shocking musical deaths of 2016. 

2016 was a difficult year for celebrities, particularly musicians. It was a year that saw numerous iconic musicians pass away.  While the deaths of Glenn Frey (The Eagles), Maurice White (Earth Wind & Fire), Merle Haggard, Sharon Jones, Joey Feek, and Phife Dawg (A Tribe Called Quest) were incredibly devastating, the three deaths included on this list DEFINITELY caught everyone off-guard.

Prince

(1958 – 2016), age, 57

Prince seemed immortal – could the Purple One ever succumb to a thing as human as death? It seemed unlikely until April 21, 2016, when the breaking news broke hearts worldwide.  The news became even more shocking when it was revealed that Prince died from a Fentanyl overdose, an opioid that has proven to be deadly.

George Michael

(1963 – 2016), age, 53

Even Christmas Day was derailed by mourning.  The legendary pop icon George Michael passed away at the age of 53 on Christmas Day 2016.  Although Michael had been out of the spotlight as a pop force for some time, his death at such a young age was jarring. Autopsy results proved inconclusive, according to CNN.

David Bowie

(1947 – 2016), age, 69

David Bowie was at least in his late 60s when he succumbed to death.  Still, his death becomes more chilling, as he passed away two days after releasing what would be his final studio album, Blackstar.  Blackstar hinted at his demise, chillingly on single “Lazarus.” At the time, “Lazarus” was simply a moving record, but after his death and the revelation that Bowie had cancer, it took on a newer, deeper meaning.

Final Thoughts

Rolling Stone Magazine, among numerous other outlets, have assembled memorials for the many celebrities who left us in 2016. Although we highlight three of the most shocking, it is important to note that every last one of those lost in 2016 were significant forces in their respective fields.  Their legacies will live on despite the fact they are physically gone.

Photo Credit: Virgin, Warner Bros, Sony, Columbia