This Is Already The Saddest Year In Music History

A shockwave was felt throughout the world on Thursday as news of Prince's death spread across the globe. The music icon — widely regarded as one of the greatest artists of all time — was only 57. 

Prince's talent was singular, but it's hard not to reflect on the mounting number of losses the music industry has already suffered so far in 2016. Before Prince, there was David Bowie , and Phife Dawg, and Merle Haggard, and Maurice White and many more.  Suffice it to say, it has been a hard year for music fans.

Reading through the tributes, re-listening to our favorite songs and albums and reliving concert memories helps ease the pain, but it doesn't take it away completely. Each death feels so personal because "it’s like an extended member of our family dies ," as psychologist David Kaplan, chief professional officer of the American Counseling Association, told The Huffington Post.

It's only April, and yet it's already clear that 2016 will go down as one of the saddest years in music history, if not the saddest. Just look at who we've lost.