The summer of 1990 is fondly recalled in Ireland by those of a certain age, and especially so in Cork.

Prince was fiercely determined to protect his intellectual property, but how well others might profit from his legacy hinges on how astute he was about arranging for control of his music after death.

Prince’s Nude tour came to Cork in July 1990 with a 90-strong entourage, which included a road crew of 60. It was breathlessly reported that the popstar was protected by a troupe of kung-fu bodyguards ahead of his concert for 55,000 fans.

Police are investigating whether foul play was involved in Prince's death after authorities revealed there was "no reason to believe" he killed himself.

Paying tribute to one of his best-known albums Purple Rain, major cities all over the world have been lighting up accordingly.

One of his students posted a clip of Matthew Patterson playing Purple Rain to his students.

Film-maker and long-time Prince collaborator Spike Lee helped lead the tributes to the Purple Rain singer with an impromptu street party in his New York borough.

The world of showbusiness has paid its respects to Prince, who has died aged 57.

Pop superstar Prince has died at the age of 57 after being found collapsed in a lift at his home in Minnesota.