W♥M

Prince Celebration (Paisley Park, Chanhassen MN and State Theatre, Minneapolis MN 2024-06-20 to 06-24)

THE REVOLUTION SETLIST Let's Go Crazy Computer Blue When You Were Mine Take Me With U Erotic City The Beautiful Ones (with Judith Hill) When Doves Cry (with Judith Hill) Raspberry Beret Mountains America Kiss (with Judith Hill) 1999 Automatic I Would Die 4 U Baby I'm a Star (with Judith Hill) Encore: Purple Rain (with Judith Hill) MORRIS DAY SETLIST Get it Up 777-9311 Cool Gigelos Get Lonely Too The Walk The Bird Jungle Love   THE NEW POWER GENERATION SETLIST My Name Is Prince Let's Work Cream 17 Days Call the Law Call My Name The Beautiful Ones Musicology Gett Off 1999 Let's Go Crazy Days of Wild Baby I'm a Star Purple Rain (with Taj Farrant)   PRINCE UNRELEASED VAULT TRACKS Let's Go Crazy (demo)- 4:10 Fat Jazz- 3:00 However Much U Want (Piano Demo)- 5:35 First Time I Saw U- 2:29 Friction- 2:40 All The Kings Horses (strings version) - 5:09 Calabama- 4:06 No Changes- 3:40 And God Created Woman (piano demo) - 3:00 Purple Rain (original piano demo) - 4:50   READ MORE Prince There is a Prince Celebration kicking off Thursday evening, June 2nd, and continues to Saturday at Paisley Park. There’ll be Q&A with artists who worked closely with Prince, including his former wife and NPG dancer Mayte Garcia ...

“New Zealand, France, Germany, England, California, Texas, more….”

The international roll call of visitors to the Twin Cities for the recent Prince Celebration 2024 five-day event, was as diverse as ever with the loyal traveling great distances to spend a long weekend at events at Paisley Park and in downtown Minneapolis, in kinship with others that felt as passionately about Prince’s music.

After a trio of initial Celebration events in the early 2000’s, the gathering was suspended as Prince focused more time on recording and touring, picking back up again after his untimely death in 2016, and now, with this sixth posthumous installment and second annual event organized by the NYC-based holding company, Prince Legacy LLC headed by L. Londell McMillan and Charles Spicer that oversees half of the Estate.

The event took place a little later than usual to better commemorate the 40^th anniversary of Prince and The Revolution’s seminal album and accompanying film, “Purple Rain”, which were respectively released in June and July of 1984, with both topping the charts, and even earning the Purple one an Academy Award. We detailed other 40^th anniversary products and marketing previously here.

 

THURSDAY

The five-day affair got off to a real bang on the Thursday morning (well, for VIPs) who, similar to last year, were privy to unheard, unreleased tracks from the vault, over an hour-long listening session.

In addition to early demos of “Let’s Go Crazy” and “Purple Rain” as part of the ten tracks, “First Time I Saw U” was an upbeat collaboration with his father, John L. Nelson. News was revealed of an unreleased Jamie Starr (one of his many alter egos) album via the track, “Friction” and the title track of another unreleased (and previously unknown) album, 2003’s “Calibama” was also previewed.

Additionally, VIP ticketholders saw a repeat airing of the Purple Rain Tour finale show, from the Orange Bowl in Miami from April 1985, but like its previous airing, was not shown in its entirety. An evening dance party also took place with familiar DJ Lenka Paris spinning the tunes at the W Hotel in the Foshay Tower.

 

FRIDAY

All the events on the second and third days (Fri and Sat) moved into downtown Minneapolis as all attendees watched most of one of seven Purple Rain-era concerts shot by the house cameras at the fabled Capitol Centre in Landover, MD. As the house lights went up, a surprise panel took place with Billy Sparks, who played the club owner in the film and who told some hilarious stories and of his initial meeting Prince in 1979.

After a brief break, the crowd got to see the newly remastered version of “Purple Rain”, a film the majority of the audience already knew by heart, which morphed the viewing experience into an interactive “Rocky Horror”-esque viewing, complete with crowd repeating of key lines, cheering at the concert clips, and mass dancing from seats and aisles.

As the credits rolled, members of The Revolution (playing the first of two nights later
that evening down the street at First Avenue) came out to sit for a brief panel discussion, revealing a few stories about the behind-the-scenes of the filming.

Their live set later that evening, stretched to just shy of ninety minutes, and covered songs through the end of their tenure in 1986, and featured special guest star / late era protegee Judith Hill for much of the second half of the set.

 

SATURDAY

The day began with the second of two promised concert screenings- not the predicted seminal First Avenue footage from August 1983 when several “Purple Rain” songs were played live for the first time ever, but a revealing 2004 Reno, NV Musicology era soundcheck which revealed both Prince’s pure skill as a guitarist/bandleader and showcased how musically versatile and always at the ready, his live band had to be (still, a Purple Rain 40th commemoration without viewing that important First Ave show, seemed woefully incomplete). 

Local TV personality Reg Chapman took to the stage to introduce Morris Day, who sat and waxed poetic, had nothing but good things to say about everyone, and kept the audience mesmerized and laughing with his light-hearted and unique storytelling abilities.

Another highly anticipated segment was a world premiere live viewing of what the upcoming “Purple Rain” musical will consist of, in an admittedly early workshopped performance of a couple songs, led by the vocally incredible Rachel Webb in the Apollonia role (fingers crossed she remains in the role).

Director Lileana Blain-Cruz was visibly more than excited to be at the helm of this upcoming production (which world premieres next year in Minneapolis) as was Tony Award-winning book writer (for last year’s “Appropriate”) Branden Jacob-Jenkins and musical director, Jason Michael Webb, fresh from the recent MJ: The Musical project.

Susan Rogers, Prince’s sound engineer from 1983-87, was honored with the event’s Legacy Award (“that’s Doctor Susan Rogers”, she quipped to McMillan when receiving) and then patrons filed into the streets for an all-day block party (which was briefly interrupted by rain), taking place under the auspices of the Prince mural, to witness live DJs and music performances, including Australian teen blues guitar prodigy Taj Farrant, who would also play later that night, and later in the weekend.

Along with Farrant, Morris Day played a too-short half-hour set backed by the current lineup of the New Power Generation, with the NPG (led by keyboardist / musical director Morris Hayes; original rapper Tony Mosely, guitarist Mike Scott and vocalist MacKenzie) playing their own headlining set, with guest appearances from Kip Blackshire and Rosie’s daughter, Latoya Gaines.

 

SUNDAY

This more laid-back day reverted the location of activities back to Paisley Park, beginning with a gospel brunch and associated live performances, followed by an extended Q+A session with engineer Rogers under an outdoor tent. This additional time actually allowed the audience to come up and ask a question that was on their mind (something Celebration panels oddly do not usually make time for). Unfortunately, those on one of the two VIP schedule tracks had to leave early to keep to their schedule, leaving the tent just half full for Rogers' second half discussion and question-taking.  

 

MONDAY

The final day was again light on organized activities, mostly making room on the schedule for groups of VIP ticketholders to enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Minnetonka (never-minding the famous scene in the film where Apollonia goes into the water was not filmed on the actual lake) and the studio/museum was open for self-guided tours (though rooms like for The Black Album and Studio B were completely closed, and the well-reviewed recent shoe exhibit had been replaced by more Purple Rain-era memorabilia), merchandise shopping, and live performances in the main soundstage approximately every 30 minutes, including powerful opening and closing sets from Liv Warfield and local singer/producer Jordan Johnston.

As in previous years, schedules and event confirmations were very last-minute (something Prince himself could get away with, but it shouldn’t be the case for this event with so many international attendees and need to coordinate transportation and details). And as a result, some Purple Rain-era guests that should have been present, were not able to attend.  

McMillan addressed some of the inconveniences and missteps during the weekend and seemed receptive to at least listening to make the event better in coming years. Its move into downtown Minneapolis for many of the events and the widening scope of activities proved the organizers are at least trying to extend and expand their reach for greater awareness and to attract more attendees outside of the hardcore faithful (who aren't getting any younger).

More info regarding any vault releases (why not partner with Nugs as Pearl Jam, Springsteen and others successfully have, to create a Live Concert series for download and purchase?), the long-in-the-works Netflix documentary (four years and counting...), and potential upcoming deluxe edition releases (a 4LP edition of the Symbol album leaked- legit or not?) were never really addressed.

The attendees also often felt less of an interactive part of the activities than they should have (i.e. why doesn’t every panel allow time for audience Q+A, like at basically every fan convention everywhere?) and the organizers should allow related optional fan-organized and led panels (again, like at most cons) happen to help fill out the schedule.

Despite the predictable hiccups, the future remains hopeful for Prince Celebration, based on the 2024 event- there’s an active effort to expand and re-think the event; make the city of Minneapolis a more inclusive location to its schedule; and organizers’ hearts (and subsequently, their pocketbooks) remain in mostly the right place – to continue to honor and uphold the musical legacy that was the once-in-a-lifetime genius of Prince Rogers Nelson.

(Click on any image to enlarge and see in full)

THE REVOLUTION panel at State Theatre, Minneapolis MN (2024-06-21)

MORRIS DAY at State Theatre, Minneapolis MN (2024-06-22)

NEW POWER GENERATION at State Theatre, Minneapolis MN (2024-06-22)

PRINCE PURPLE RAIN TOUR OUTFITS at Paisley Park Soundstage, Chanhassen MN (2024-06-24)

JohnC ♥ johnc@weheartmusic.com ♥ X / twitter.com

Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis / Morris Day and the Time at Taste of Minnesota (07 July 2024)

07/07 Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis at Taste of Minnesota 07/07 Morris Day and the Time at Taste of Minnesota Lineup Great Clips Stage 12:30 pm – Sounds Of Blackness 2:30 pm – Johnny Holm Band 5:00 pm – Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis (with Guests) 6:45 pm – Morris Day & The Time Featuring: DJ Shannon Blowtorch Jazz88 Stage 12:00 pm – MacPhail’s First Ave Ensemble 1:30 pm – Aja Parham 3:00 pm – Purple Funk Metropolis 4:30 pm – International Reggae All-Stars 6:15 pm – Minneapolis String Project Xcel Energy Singer / Songwriter Stage 11:15 – 12:15 Scarlett Woods 12:30 – 1:30 Scott Zosel 1:45 – 2:45 Steven Weeks-Johnson 3:00 – 4:00 Greg Volker & the River 4:15 – 5:30 John Loo & the Breakers 5:45 – 7:00 Joan of Profile 20 Washington Plaza Stage 11:15 – 12:30 Sam Cargill 12:45 – 2:00 Josh Cargill 2:15 – 3:30 Cathie English 3:45 – 5:00 Jamie Parker 5:15 – 6:30 Vicki Dischler Read More Taste of Minnesota Yes, Taste of Minnesota is back in 2024! This is turning out to be one of the biggest events yet, featuring beloved The Wallflowers (for Saturday) and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (for Sunday). … Jimmy Jam Shortly following, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (who curated the talent lineup for the series) reunited with their original band Flyte Tyme for a version of Lipps. Inc 1980 classic, ‘Funkytown’ featuring original vocalist Cynthia Johnson. … Morris Day From the current incarnation of Morris Day and the Time as well as rising songstress and Grammy winner Judith Hill, who had her debut album, last year’s Back in Time … Purple Funk Metropolis Local seven-piece instrumental Purple Funk Metropolis will be headlining the 7th Street Entry in Feb 11th. The band released their new album The Golden Goose recently. ....

Day two of Taste of Minnesota on Nicollet Mall, in Minneapolis, took place at 11am on Sunday. Again, it was a nice day with some clouds but no threat of rain. With these outdoors events, the weather can put a damper on things, but it was nice and sunny for both days.

Unlike the first day, we now know the lay of the land and had a strategy of moving from stage to stage… and even stopping by the F1RST Wrestling ring, which we had no idea existed on Saturday. We had set times for all the bands, so we were ready to see as many bands as possible.

As usual, the big draw is the main stage, Great Clips Stage, which started its lineup with a very large cast of singers of Sounds of Blackness. This gospel/R&B, soul group goes back to 1969 by Russell Knighton at Macalester College in St. Paul, originally called the Macalester College Black Voices. When Gary Hines took over the ensemble in 1971, they officially changed their name to Sounds of Blackness.

They are an impressive collection with Cynthia Johnson (of Lipps Inc.) and Ann Nesby as the group’s most prominent alumni. Nesby will later resurface on Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis’ set, but more on that later.

Shannon Blowtorch kept the music flowing as she DJ between live sets.

Next up was Johnny Holm Band, a multi-generational band. They played some old songs like Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel” to semi-current Jimmy Eat World’s “The Middle.” They were a really fun, energetic band, perfect for these outdoors event.

Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis at Super Bowl Live (26 Jan 2018)

Of course, we were mostly there for Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. I was told that this was the first time they are officially appearing as a duo, but we previously saw them together in Jan 2018 when they curated the Super Bowl Live shows: “Shortly following, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (who curated the talent lineup for the series) reunited with their original band Flyte Tyme for a version of Lipps. Inc 1980 classic, ‘Funkytown’ featuring original vocalist Cynthia Johnson.”

Still, it’s a rare appearance for this legendary music producer and songwriters. Even if you didn’t know who Jam & Lewis are, you probably have danced and loved their songs, which included S.O.S.’ “Just Be Good to Me” or Cherrelle’ “Saturday Love” & “I Didn't Mean to Turn You On” or the Human League’s “Only Human” or Janet Jackson’s “What Have You Done For Me Lately.”

Since Jam & Lewis are the producers, they let others sing: Ruben Studdard, Ann Nesby, Jamecia Bennett, Shanice Wilson (she sang on all the Janet Jackson songs), and Lisa Keith. They played and medley in about 30 songs, and every one of those songs are pure gold hits!

Morris Day and the Time closed out the Taste of Minnesota. I’m not going to lie, it was tough for Day to follow up to the powerhouse set of Jam & Lewis (and it didn’t help that Morris Day was 20 minute fashionably late to his own show). Still, the crowd fondly remember Day and the Time as they do that uniform head turn and dance moves. The dance favorite “The Walk” was a crowd favorite.

Morris Day at State Theatre (22 Jun 2024)

Note, while doing research on Morris Day and the Time, according to Day, the Prince Estate prohibited Day from using “Morris Day and the Time.” I guess things worked out in the end, as Day recently appeared as part of Prince Celebration on June 22: “Along with Farrant, Morris Day played a too-short half-hour set backed by the current lineup of the New Power Generation, with the NPG (led by keyboardist / musical director Morris Hayes; original rapper Tony Mosely, guitarist Mike Scott and vocalist MacKenzie) playing their own headlining set, with guest appearances from Kip Blackshire and Rosie’s daughter, Latoya Gaines.”

At the Jazz88 Stage started with MacPhail’s First Ave Ensemble, followed by Aja Parham (pronounced “A-Ja”) a jazz singer started her set with “I Feel Pretty” from West Side Story, although she updated the lyrics to keep up with the time. It’s a different meaning back then when they sang “I feel pretty and gay”. She has a full band, and even her son joined her on stage.

Purple Funk Metropolis at Fine Line (06 Jan 2024)

Next up was Purple Funk Metropolis, who we saw in Jan 2024 as part of Flavor World’s event: “The music event was organized by Flavor World (a Minneapolis based creative brand, making art in many mediums, and dedicated to inspiring and empowering creatives) and local college radio station Radio K. They’ve gathered some local bands for the occasion, including Afrofusion band Ozone Creations, funk/jazz band Purple Funk Metropolis, creeping charlie, and Kwey.”

International Reggae All-Stars plays popular songs in the reggae style. For example, Bryan Adams’ “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” and Guns N' Roses’ “Knockin' On Heaven's Door”, but laid back.

Minneapolis String Project at the Icehouse (22 July 2024)

Finally Minneapolis String Project closed out the Jazz88 stage. If you like what you heard, they are playing the Icehouse in Minneapolis on July 22: “We’re pleased to announce our participation in the Monday night monthly series at the Icehouse in Minneapolis! July is being curated by our own David Feily! Come out July 22nd for a great night of music featuring Minneapolis String Project and Society of Chemists!”

On the far south at the Xcel Energy Singer / Songwriter Stage we have Scarlett Woods, followed by Scott Zosel influenced by artists such as Gram Parsons, Joe Henry, Jeff Tweedy, Patty Smith, Ryan Adams, Liz Phair, even John Lennon.

Steven Weeks-Johnson was fun, doing some 90s tunes like Sublime’s “What I Got” and Blind Melon’s “No Rain”. He even played Joe Walsh’s “Life's Been Good”.

Greg Volker & the River plays Alt-Country and roots music, followed by John Loo & the Breakers.

Joan of Profile closed out the stage. I am assuming the singer is named Joan and she’s from the land of Profile… They’re described as indie-pop, and I recognized their cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger.” The band’s latest single is called “Flowers.”

The 20 Washington Plaza Stage offers what seems like solo artists. Starting with Sam Cargill (with a debut album called Authentic Silver) and later joined in with Josh Cargill, which we’re speculating is related to Sam, either as older brother or father. We actually have no idea, they could also be unrelated and their last name is purely coincidental.

Cathie English is a folk singer/songwriter in Central Minnesota and Jamie Parker, aka “J”.

Vicki Dischler played some of her favorite songs. She played Paul Simon’s “Slip Slidin' Away” and then she asks, “how about some Rolling Stones?” and proceeded to play “19th Nervous Breakdown.”

The whole Taste of Minnesota event was very fun and although it was free, trust me, we ended up paying for all the food and drinks and enjoying the music. We’ll definitely return next year.

Apologies for the poor phone photos.

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Morris Day and the Time at Taste of Minnesota (07 July 2024)

vu ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

Minneapolis: This Week (07/07/2024)

What’s happening this week.

Read more Minneapolis Music Guide.

07/01 How Long Gone at Turf Club Read More Podcast Obviously named after the late Wes Craven’s “Last House on the Left”, this Last Podcast on the Left is a true crime/paranormal comedy show with comedian and hosts Ben Kissel, comedian and actor Henry Zebrowski (from Wolf of Wall Street) ...

07/01/2024 Monday

How Long Gone
at Turf Club
first-avenue.com

The How Long Gone Podcast will be ending their tour at the Turf Club, in St Paul, on July 1, 2024. The show is hosted by bicoastal elites, Chris Black and Jason Stewart… It was started during the pandemic boredom gave Chris (in New York) and Jason (Los Angeles) something to talk about and catching up… and accidentally “creating a cosmos instead.” As Chris told Vogue, the greatest reward is “creating a universe of interesting and engaging people who just want to come together to have a good time.”

Some of their guests includes playwright Jeremy O. Harris, musician Phoebe Bridgers, actress Hari Nef, etc. Recorded up to three times a week.

Their latest episode (#648) is about an hour long and they talked to DJ and songwriter, Alex Chapman about “a G6 at Pilates, Diplo's Architectural Digest home in Jamaica, how Alex landed in West Hollywood, how Pride month hit different if you're a gay DJ, Normani, an Italian sex cave, we explain the essence of "trade," zoology, how to please the olds and youngs, his childhood basketball career, Scotty Pippen is likely hung, NYU dorm life, opening for Kim Petras on tour, divas who've been dealt a more difficult hand, and his dream producers to work with.”

Tour Dates

06/19/24 Chicago, IL, Bottom Lounge

06/20/24 Toronto, ON, Great Hall

06/26/24 Atlanta, GA, Terminal West

06/27/24 Washington, DC, The Atlantis

06/28/24 Philadelphia, PA, Johnny Brenda’s

07/01/24 St Paul, MN, Turf Club

07/06 The Baseball Project featuring Peter Buck, Scott McCaughey, Mike Mills, Linda Pitmon, Steve Wynn at Turf Club Read More The Baseball Project We've previously mentioned the supergroup The Baseball Project a few years ago, the band consists of Peter Buck (REM), Scott McCaughey (singer of The Young Fresh Fellows …

07/06/2024 Saturday

The Baseball Project
featuring Peter Buck • Scott McCaughey • Mike Mills • Linda Pitmon • Steve Wynn
at Turf Club
first-avenue.com

We love R.E.M., so naturally, we have been covering The Baseball Project since 2012, calling them “a supergroup”: “Members includes Peter Buck (REM), Scott McCaughey (singer of The Young Fresh Fellows* and The Minus 5**), Steve Wynn (Dream Syndicate), Linda Pitmon (Hazel Motes), and sometime Mike Mills (REM).”

Also, all their songs are about baseball… and nothing says “American” than Baseball and a July tour. The Baseball Project writes, “We are VERY excited to announce that we'll be hitting the road again this July! We had such an amazing time at the end of last summer when we first brought our latest batch of songs (from last summer's "Grand Salami Time") to the stage, that we immediately made plans to get back out for another jolt of adrenaline. Thanks to all of you who came out back in August/September - your massive enthusiasm is what keeps us raring to get back in the van and crank up the amps every night. Tickets are already on sale at all the venues below, so find a show near you or plan a road trip to see us in one of these fine cities!”

Tour Dates

Jul 4 Evanston, IL, US SPACE

Jul 5 Milwaukee, WI, US Milwaukee Summerfest

Jul 6 St. Paul, MN, US Turf Club

Jul 7 Des Moines, IA, US Wooly's

Jul 8 Omaha, NE, US The Waiting Room

Jul 10 Kansas City, MO, US The Record Bar

Jul 11 Tulsa, OK, US Cain's Ballroom

Jul 12 Fort Worth, TX, US Tannahill's Tavern

Jul 13 Austin, TX, US Antone's

Jul 14 Houston, TX, US White Oak Music Hall

07/06-07/07 Taste of Minnesota at Nicollet Mall Read More Taste of Minnesota This was the second year that A Taste of Minnesota is held at the Carver County Fairground in Waconia, Minnesota. Unlike last year, when the entry fee was waived if you arrived before 3pm, this year, they moved the time up to 1pm. … The Wallflowers As much as a clinic from two expert singer-songwriters as a concert, the Jakob Dylan-led Wallflowers and Boston indie rock artist Will Dailey stopped into midtown Kansas City, to play the Uptown Theater. …

07/06/2024 Saturday
07/07/2024 Sunday

Taste of Minnesota
at Nicollet Mall
tasteofmn.com

Yes, Taste of Minnesota is back in 2024! This is turning out to be one of the biggest events yet, featuring beloved The Wallflowers (for Saturday) and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis (for Sunday).

The event takes place all day (starting at Noon!) on Nicollet Mall, in downtown Minneapolis. You can hear some great music and enjoy some Minnesota food. A fun, free event for the whole family.

Hopefully, if it works out, we’ll be covering both days, even though we have prior commitment of late-night concerts that evening. It’s going to be a lot of work!

Blue Coupe at a Taste of Minnesota, Carver Fairgrounds (04 July 2015)

We last attended A Taste of Minnesota in July 2015 and wrote, “What do you get when you combine Alice Cooper with Blue Öyster Cult? You get Blue Coupe (the 'blue' is the first word of BOC and the 'coupe' is last word from "Alice Cooper"), a trio consisting of BOC founding members (and brothers) guitarist Joe Bouchard and drummer Albert Bouchard, along with original Alice Couper's bassist Dennis Dunaway. Together, the rock band played blocks of Alice Cooper and Blue Öyster Cult songs. The ageing fans clearly knew the source materials, particularly when the cowbell came out for their set closer, and most memorable song, "(Don't Fear) The Reaper".”

I’m glad to see that Taste of Minnesota will be closer to Minneapolis, as driving to Carver Fairgrounds was a bit of a drive.

Lineup:

Sat, July 6th 12:00 pm – Koo Koo 1:00 pm – Belladiva 2:30 pm – Gear Daddies 3:45 pm – Sophia Eris 4:45 pm – The Wallflowers 6:30 pm – Martina McBride Featuring: DJ Kessel

Sun, July 7th 12:30 pm – Sounds Of Blackness 2:30 pm – Johnny Holm Band 5:00 pm – Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis (with Guests) 6:45 pm – Morris Day & The Time Featuring: DJ Shannon Blowtorch

BONUS: OAKLAND

07/06/2024-07/07/2024 Mosswood Meltdown, Oakland Read More B-52s One of them is the distinctive vocal styling of B-52's frontsman, Fred Schneider! I actually don't have any music for this and probably won't request more music to review, since I'm knee-deep in a crappy ... Hunx and His Punx Hunx (aka Seth Bogart), from said-band, have branched out to 50s teen music, with his band Hunx and His Punx. And you know what ? It's GOOD AWESOME. It's not sexual, it's not ... Big Freedia Boyfriend is opening for Big Freedia. Big Freedia is a rapper that knows how to get a crowd going. Frederick Ross (AKA Big Freedia) is not a newcomer to the hip-hop…

07/06/2024 Saturday
07/07/2024 Sunday

Mosswood Meltdown
July 6th & 7th, 2024
mosswoodmeltdown.com

Bay Area music festivals represent! Cult filmmaker and local bad-ass John Waters is gearing up to host the Mosswood Meltdown summer festival in Oakland for the tenth time this year, on July 6th and 7th. Get ready to revel in some proper throwbacks, and, as Waters says, “our days to shine in the punk grime.”

This year’s full line-up has already been announced, and includes headliners The B-52s, who keep saying they’re retiring for good but happily keep coming back to give us more. Also playing are the Bay Area baddies Hunx and his Punx, Big Freedia, Redd Kross, Gibby Haynes and the Paul Green Rock Academy performing songs by the Butthole Surfers, and the first-ever drag contest hosted by Peaches Christ, with Waters as one of the judges.

Recent line-ups have included Bikini Kill, Le Tigre, Bratmobile, and the Linda Lindas. As always, Mosswood promises a more DIY, gritty vibe than your larger Cali-based Outside Lands and Coachella. That’s East Bay-style, baby.

MOSSWOOD MELTDOWN 2024 LINEUP

The B52s

Hunx & His Punx

Big Freedia

Peaches Christ Hosts a Drag Contest!

Redd Kross

Pure Hell

Egyptian Lover

Gibby Haynes & The Paul Green Rock Academy

Die Spitz

Bush Tetras

Go Sailor

Pansy Division

Wifey

The Space Lady

Sheastie Boys

Diesel Dudes

Trap Girl

Non Plus Temps

Gumby’s Junk

Baus

Hot Laundry

Hosted by John Waters!!!

If your band is coming to the Minneapolis/St Paul area, please email details to [email protected] with a good lead time. Thank you.

vu ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com

Prince and Purple Rain - 40th Anniversary Celebrations

PRINCE - PURPLE RAIN ALBUM TRACKLIST 1."Let's Go Crazy" (Prince and the Revolution) 4:39 2."Take Me with U" (Prince and the Revolution) 3:54 3."The Beautiful Ones" (Prince) 5:13 4."Computer Blue" (Prince and the Revolution) 3:59 5."Darling Nikki" (Prince) 4:14 6."When Doves Cry" (Prince) 5:54 7."I Would Die 4 U" (Prince and the Revolution) 2:49 8."Baby I'm a Star" (Prince and the Revolution) 4:24 9."Purple Rain" (Prince and the Revolution) 8:41 Read More Prince There is a Prince Celebration kicking off Thursday evening, June 2nd, and continues to Saturday at Paisley Park. There’ll be Q&A with artists who worked closely with Prince, including his former wife and NPG dancer Mayte Garcia ...

40 years later, the sky is still purple and Purple still Reigns--

2024 represents the 40^th anniversary of Purple Rain, the legendary film and accompanying Academy Award-winning soundtrack album, that catapulted the then 26-year-old Prince Rogers Nelson to international superstardom, and remains as a respected and essential musical project, ranking amongst the greatest of all-time.

Directed by Albert Magnoli, “Purple Rain” was released in theaters on July 27, 1984, with a script he co-wrote being very loosely inspired by the musician’s own life – the film would go on to earn over $70 million worldwide at the box office.

Prince’s character was known as The Kid (a better movie moniker than his own childhood nickname, Skipper) with the world being introduced to co-star Apollonia Kotero as his protégé and love interest, as well as members of his actual band The Revolution and the group for which he had written and produced songs, The Time. The companion soundtrack album, featured hits “Let’s Go Crazy,” “When Doves Cry”, “Baby I’m a Star”, “Take Me With U” and “I Would Die 4 U” in addition to the title track, and would go on to sell more than 25 million copies.

Magnoli’s collaboration with Prince during the film’s production led to him becoming his personal manager for much of the 1980s which included through the recording of songs for Tim Burton’s 1989 adaptation of “Batman”.

===

On June 25, Warner Home Video will commemorate the 40th anniversary of Prince’s “Purple Rain” with a re-release of the film on 4K UHD and digital platforms. In addition to upgraded picture and sound, the release will be accompanied by most of the previous legacy bonus content (but not all, so keep that previous Blu-Ray) including commentary, eight music videos, and a featurette.

===

Additionally, lucky Airbnb users could soon get the chance to book a special-experience stay at the Longfellow neighborhood two-story, three-bedroom house in Minneapolis featured in "Purple Rain."

The Purple Rain House is one of 11 new experiential listings Airbnb is offering called "Icons" which includes a hangout with Kevin Hart, the balloon house from “Up”, and overnight stays at famous museums. Airbnb will select guests for Icon stays via an application and random lottery.

Most of the offerings are free for those selected, though some cost up to $100 per guest. Those who manage to stay at the Purple Rain House (available sometime this August) can "explore the home and go crazy for rare and special tracks from Prince's world in an exclusive studio session," according to an Airbnb release.

The reserved room, modeled after The Kid’s basement bedroom, is a replica of the one seen on film, with ambient purple lighting, Prince sheet music, and a mural of eyes peering over the bed. The experience also comes with an intimate tour, a myriad of memorabilia, unreleased recordings from the Purple Rain sessions, and the opportunity to speak with the star-studded hosts: Wendy and Lisa, Prince’s former Revolution band mates.

The house was purchased quietly by Prince in 2015 for $117,000 but was needing a near-complete rehab. The transaction was kept undisclosed until after his death in 2016 and though he never lived in the house, it has become iconic due to its location in the film.

===

A new coffee table book, Prince and Purple Rain: 40 Years is just out, which includes rare photography and memorabilia in a slip-cased hardcover edition. Andrea Swensson, the former 89.3 Current DJ and host/co-producer of Prince | Official Podcast, takes a detailed look into his most famous work for its 40th anniversary.

Featuring a foreword by superfan Maya Rudolph and illustrated with performance and off-stage photography as well as memorabilia from top collectors, the book is a timely tribute to the album and film.

===

The crown jewel of the 40^th Anniversary events is this year’s Celebration at Paisley Park, an annual gathering of fans (or “fams,” as he preferred) that launched in 2017, initially inspired by a week-long party Prince hosted in 2000. Taking place at the fabled Paisley Park studio and grounds and destinations throughout the metro, Celebration 2024 will celebrate the Purple Rain 40th anniversary for four consecutive days, June 20-24th. We were most recently on-site at Paisley last October, covering the impressive expanded album release of his later seminal album, Diamonds and Pearls.

Guests can experience live concerts, celebrity panels, exclusive concert footage, multiple activities in downtown Minneapolis, a newly curated Paisley Park Tour, a (VIP) boat excursion, gospel brunch, new talent showcase, and more.

Confirmed musicians for the weekend include Morris Day, The Revolution, and The New Power Generation (NPG). The Revolution (Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, Bobby Z, BrownMark, and Dr. Fink) are set to perform two shows during Celebration 2024 on June 21 and June 22. The concerts will take place at First Avenue, the famous downtown venue that featured prominently in the film.

New Power Generation (NPG) performs on Saturday, June 22. NPG continue to play with the musical precision learned from when their famous leader was still front and center. Their shows are a kaleidoscope of the hits from all eras of Prince's career, but are focused on the late 80s/early 90s period when the original group was most active. We last caught the band live on back-to-back special appearances in Minneapolis back in 2018.

Morris Day is also set for Saturday, June 22 at Celebration. Day played an essential role in the development of the Minneapolis Sound of the 1980s. He went to school with Prince and sang in Prince’s first band Grand Central, before going on to become the founding lead singer of Prince's band, The Time.

After the first three albums with The Time, Day launched his solo career, releasing albums Color of Success, Daydreaming, Guaranteed, and newest album Last Call as well as re-joined his version of The Time and is continuing to tour under his own name. We caught Morris and co. live at Paisley in Jan 2016, a few months before Prince passed, and when the pair had some private time together, to make some amends. Celebration Tickets Here

So, gel your hair into a curly pompadour, find a frilly shirt and purple overcoat, and hop on your motorbike to purify in the waters of Lake Minnetonka and celebrate the 40^th Anniversary of Purple Rain this season, in Minneapolis and other points- Let’s Go Crazy!

 

illustration by Yann Dalon / Behance

John C ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ X / twitter.com

Super Bowl Live Day 4: Sheila E., Morris Day and The Time, The Revolution at Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis (29 Jan 2018)

Read More The Revolution Prince was a big deal. When he died unexpectedly, we were shocked and we talked about it for weeks... and we speculated that The Revolution will reunite. And they have! … Super Bowl With the teams now decided (New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles) and plans finalized with the game less than two weeks away, Super Bowl LII is coming to Minneapolis at US Bank Stadium …

Night Four of Super Bowl Live, the free concert series on Nicollet Mall in anticipation of Sunday’s Super Bowl LII game…

Monday, January 29, 2018
SALUTE TO PRINCE

4:00 pm DJ Dudley D

8:00 pm Sheila E.

8:30 p.m. Morris Day and the Time

9:15 p.m. The Revolution

SUPER BOWL LIVE Schedule

	Tuesday, January 30, 2018 4:00 pm Minnesota Special Olympics Polar Plunge 4:00 pm DJ Matty Matt and MC Tonez 5:00 pm Drum Down the Sun 7:15 pm Socaholix 7:45 pm International Reggae All Stars 8:30 pm Ipso Facto
	Wednesday, January 31, 2018 4:00 pm DJ Brother Jules and MC Tonez 4:30 pm Legacy Fund presents Kids Dance Party & Appetite for Change 6:00 pm Stokley Williams 6:45 pm Dessa 7:30 pm Mint Condition 8:30 pm New Power Generation, guest vocalists Andre Cymone, Kip Blackshire and Mackenzie Green

	Thursday, February 1, 2018 4:00 pm DJ Kimuel Hailey and MC Tonez 4:00 pm Les Stroud 4:45 pm Jakubi 5:45 pm fDeluxe 6:45 pm New Power Soul 7:45 pm Andre Cymone: 1969 Live Music Experience 8:45 pm Rae Sremmurd		Friday, February 2, 2018 2:00 pm DJ Howard "HK" Kessler 4:00 pm Zuluzuluu 4:45 pm Cobi 5:45 pm The Jets 6:45 pm KING 9:00 pm Skylar Grey
	Saturday, February 3, 2018 11:30 am DJ Dudley D, MC Tonez & Katie Andres 12:00 pm Fan Rally #1 2:30 pm Fan Rally #2 4:00 pm Kris Wu 4:45 pm Bob Mould 5:45 pm The Suburbs 6:45 pm The Jayhawks 7:45 pm Soul Asylum 9:00 pm X Ambassadors		Sunday, February 4, 2018 BOLD NORTH GAMEDAY 12:00 pm DJ Dudley D, Katie Andres & Jon Berry 1:00 pm 13 Crowns

Photo Gallery for Monday, January 29, 2018

Sheila E

Morris Day and the Time

Morris Day and the Time

Jimmy Jam/Terry Lewis

Revolution: Stokely

Revolution: Bobby Z

The Revolution: Wendy

The Revolution at Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis (29 Jan 2018)

john ([email protected]) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com/weheartmusic

Minneapolis: June 29 to June 30, 2016

Read More Sonny Knight & The Lakers You may recall that we covered Sonny Knight & The Lakers at the Red Stag Block Party earlier in August 2014.John described the show as a dancing and religious experience…

Here are some shows taking place in the Minneapolis/St Paul area from June 29 to June 30, 2016.

Read more Minneapolis Music Guide.

SONNY KNIGHT & THE LAKERS
at Lions Park
Wednesday, 06/29/16, 6:30pm (FREE)
cityoflindstrom.us

Every Wednesday, the city of Lindström in Minnesota (it’s about 45 miles north of Minneapolis), organized these “Harmony in the Park” events in Lions Park. The event is free and open to the public, with emphasis on family and fun.

Next Wednesday, our favorite local soul revival band Sonny Knight & the Lakers will be playing the “Health Fair” show.

Harmony in the Park Schedule

06/29 Health Fair: Sonny Knight & the Lakers
07/06 Water Festival: Bob & the Beachcombers
07/13 River City Cloggers: Rising Joy
07/20 Non-Profit Night: Link Union
07/27 Photo of the Lakes: Monroe Crossing
08/03 National Night Out: Rockin’ Hollywoods
08/10 Faith Community Night: Boiling Point

Read More Morris Day From the current incarnation of Morris Day and the Time as well as rising songstress and Grammy winner Judith Hill, who had her debut album, last year’s Back in Time …

MORRIS DAY & THE TIME
at Minnesota Zoo Amphitheater
Thursday, 06/30/16, 6:30pm ($50)
suemclean.com

The successful “Music in the Zoo” Summer series by Sue McLean & Associates continues next Thursday with legendary singer, musician, actor Morris Day and his band The Time.

With the Purple One’s recent passing, the funk is still fresh in our minds, so this upcoming show might be a nice tribute to Prince.

Mina Moore to open.

Morris Day & the Time’s tour dates:

06/29/16 Milwaukee, WI Henry Maier Festival Park
06/30/16 Apple Valley, MN Minnesota Zoo Amph
07/14/16 Vogue Theatre Indianapolis, IN
07/22/16 Keepin' The Funk Alive
07/23/16 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union
08/05/16 Sterling Heights, MI Freedom Hill Amph
08/06/16 Kansas City, MO Starlight Theatre
08/11/16 Napa Town & Country Fair
08/12/16 Keepin' The Funk Alive
08/13/16 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live
08/25/16 Philadelphia, PA Dell Music Center
08/27/16 Keepin' The Funk Alive
08/28/16 Los Angeles, CA Microsoft Theater
09/16/16 San Diego Bayfest
10/22/16 Sacramento, CA Crest Theatre

Read More Murder Shoes Local guest Murder Shoes (featuring Tess Weinberg, Christopher White, Derek Van Gieson, Elliot Manthey, and Tim Heinlein) opened the show. We previously caught the band …

MURDER SHOES
at Triple Rock Social Club
Thursday, 06/30/16, 8pm ($5)
triplerocksocialclub.com

If you’ve have nothing going on next Thursday, check out these local bands for the price of an import beer (details below).

We’ve seen Murder Shoes a few times, with their last appearance with Eliot Sumner earlier this month, the local band played a ton of new songs. Expect a similar set.

Details:

A true Mélange of local bands coming to you live and Direct from the Triple Rock, Sponsored by Radio K!!!!

Murder Shoes, that band you've maybe heard before but maybe not? Maybe you Can? ;) ;)

Andrew Jansen (Loud Sun), so much vibez dripping from the speaker when these sweet humans play

Devata Daun, if you haven't gotten this song ‘Animal Instinct’, stuck in your head yet, here you go.

The Controversial New Skinny Pill, The first band You turn to for the soundtrack to a UFO sex-cult party

Kai will be spinning all your favorite songs you didn't know you loved, before, after and in between bands

This Party costs $5 and its 18+

vu ([email protected]) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ facebook.com ♥ twitter.com/weheartmusic

Looking Back: January 2016

Read More Babes in Toyland Since I love all-things Riot Grrrls, naturally I wanted to check out Babes in Toyland live. A little trivia, but the legendary Minneapolis band actually fired bassist Courtney Love in 1987. She, of course … Bully Opening up the show was Nashville's Bully, lead by singer Alicia Bognanno .... who revealed to us that she's actually from Minnesota. Although the band has been in Minneapolis a few times .... Morris Day From the current incarnation of Morris Day and the Time as well as rising songstress and Grammy winner Judith Hill, who had her debut album, last year’s Back in Time …

Here is the wrap-up for last month: January 2016.

I know it’s late, but let’s be honest, there really weren’t many shows we covered for the month of January. In fact, December to February (our current month) is pretty dead on account of my personal hibernation, but also bands aren’t really touring Minneapolis in the winter months (a smart move on their part).

I’ll never forget watching Ben Folds talk about his very first national tour and he made the mistake of booking Minneapolis in the Winter. What happened was there was a blizzard and they had to push Folds’ piano from the venue to their van... and ended up leaving it in the middle of the street. The band was so naïve about Minneapolis and snow that none of them wore heavy coats, and Folds described it as the harshest lesson he’s learned and since then, the band has never, ever come to Minneapolis in the Winter.

Trust me when I tell you that I’ve seen a lot of bands and for many who has never been to Minneapolis in the Winter (especially if they’re from a warmer area), they all say the same thing: Minneapolis is pretty darn cold. It’s also probably because many of these touring bands aren’t properly dressed.

Anyway, with that said, here are some highlights from January:

Buzz Award goes to the Bully at Fine Line (01/18). The Current loves her... and so does everyone else!

Come Back Award goes to Morris Day at Paisley Park (01/29). The last time The Time played was in 2001 - a 15 year absent!

First Time Award goes to Venom Inc at Turf Club (01/12). The band’s very first St Paul appearance, even though they’ve been around for at least 35 years.

Legendary Award goes to “local” Babes in Toyland at First Ave (01/30). Officially their first non-festival Minneapolis appearance... and it brought out all the local musicians and riot fans.

JANUARY 2016 (11 Shows)

• 01/10 Royal'z at Skyway • 01/12 Venom Inc at Turf Club • 01/18 Bully at Fine Line • 01/20 1349 at Triple Rock • 01/23 Lower Dens at 7th Street

• 01/27 Bayonne at 7th Street • 01/27 Josh Ritter at Pantages • 01/29 Morris Day at Paisley Park • 01/29 Decapitated at Skyway Theatre • 01/30 Babes in Toyland at First Ave • 01/30 Blue Felix at Cabooze

vu ([email protected]) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com/weheartmusic

Morris Day and The Time w/ Judith Hill at Paisley Park, Chanhassen (29 Jan 2016)

Morris Day and the Time Setlist Get It Up Cool Pandemonium Chocolate Wild & Loose The Stick Fishnet Oak Tree Jerk Out 777-9311 Girl Sometimes I Get Lonely Gigolos Get Lonely Too Condensate / If the Kid Can’t Make You Come Ice Cream Castles / 100MPH (snippet) The Walk The Bird Black Cat (guitar solo) Tricky (partial, w/Morris on drums) Jungle Love Judith Hill Setlist As Trains Go By Turn Up Angel in the Dark Beautiful Life My People Have a Good Time (Rufus cover) Love Trip Cure / The Way You Make Me Feel (Michael Jackson cover) Wild Tonight Cry, Cry Cry Jammin’ in the Basement Morris Day Tour Dates 02/19/16 Indio, CA National Date Fest Read More Morris Day From the current incarnation of Morris Day and the Time as well as rising songstress and Grammy winner Judith Hill, who had her debut album, last year’s Back in Time … Judith Hill Midnight: members of the invited media (Star Tribune, Fox9, City Pages, The Current) are escorted back to Paisley’s Studio A, for what turns out to be an introduction to singer Judith Hill, a preview of her new music, and some Q+A. …

Call it a Friday Purple Homecoming, and a night “Back in Time” and with The Time—

The word had gone out that Prince’s fabled studio in suburban Chanhassen, Paisley Park was hosting another one of its After Dark concert series, featuring acclaimed singer Judith Hill and the return after many years, of Morris Day and the Time.

With some advance notice and pre-show ticket sales, the Purple faithful were able to reserve their spots and make plans for a night where possibly anything could happen, and a crowd had already gathered on a chilly night, ahead of the 9pm doors.

Inside, the usual protocol of no cameras, cell phones, or electronics was followed, with a more casual vibe happening in the smaller Love4OneAnother room. The larger soundstage room, recently carpeted with a sound system upgrade, housed the bulk of the crowd, most huddled near the stage to catch a close glimpse.  Lights remained dark as a psychedelic swirl pattern swirled on screens over the main and side stages, with Prince’s famous glyph symbol superimposed over.

Judith Hill

Just before 10pm, Judith Hill and The Fam took to the stage (a band rightfully named as father Robert “Pee Wee” Hill is on bass and mother Michiko Hill plays keyboards, and was filled out by ex-Rufus guitarist Tony Maiden, drummer Michael White and sax player Marcus Anderson). Hill’s debut full-length from last year, Back in Time (NPG Records) was not only recorded on-site at Paisley, but also produced by Prince, who took in the evening’s entertainment in from a back elevated couch, smiling and playing along with “air” drums and keyboards.

Hill strode to the stage in a red velvet kimono-type top, slit at the sides and with band in place, started her 65min. set strongly, with an acapella verse from ‘As Trains Go By’ before the band kicked in with force.   ‘Angel in the Dark’ started somberly with its very revealing lyrics, received some mid-song punch from the band, and ended soulfully with Hill’s vocals providing the final crescendo to the song.

Maiden took over halfway through for their cover of Rufus’ 1973 ‘Have a Good Time’ and Hill’s own ‘Cure’ led effortlessly into her cover of ‘The Way You Make Feel’, the same song that dazzled the judges and public when Hill appeared on NBC’s The Voice.  An aching ‘Cry, Cry, Cry’ and the playfully analog soul of ‘Jammin’ in the Basement’ ended the well-paced set with aplomb.

Morris Day

After a short break, lights again dimmed and a pre-recorded voice asked “What Time is it?” as a video montage played.  Morris Day and the Time took to the stage for their 80 min. set, with Day nattily dressed in a lemon yellow zoot suit as new valet Thomas Austin prepped the mirror for Day to see himself, asking, “Minneapolis, ya’ll ready to get it up!?”

This variation of the band features Day, original keyboardist Monte Moir and classic drummer Jellybean Johnson among others to play the thirty-plus years of funk hits, most of which Prince was responsible for writing.  The band moved quickly through songs like ‘Cool’, ‘Fishnet’ and ‘Jerk Out’, getting through ten songs in the first half hour.

Things slightly lulled halfway through as bassist Ricky “Freeze” Smith took the reins to thank Prince, as Day headed backstage for a presumed costume change (though he only added a white coat) and slower songs like ‘Girl’ and ‘Sometimes I Get Lonely’ were played, as a bevy of (mostly) women were invited on stage to dance along.

Guitarist Tory Ruffin had his time in the spotlight, serenading a woman with his guitar licks, then Day had everyone face drummer Johnson at the back, so he could better examine the merchandise.  Things ramped back up with a snippet of ‘100 MPH’ thrown in during the end of ‘Ice Cream Castles’ and a warning of “you know where this party’s about to go” got fans’ arms flapping for ‘The Bird’.

Jellybean Johnson took to the forefront, trading in drumsticks for guitar, as he roared through the solo of Janet Jackson’s ‘Black Cat’, a song he co-produced and by far, the most rock moment of the evening.  That segued into Day himself taking up the drum kit for a quick ‘Tricky’ followed by the tribal beats and Day’s cackling intro for ‘Jungle Love’, which had everyone moving and singing along.

And with that, the stage was empty and DJ Kiss resumed playing the hits, as the faithful milled about, hoping for any slim chance Prince himself might take the stage to catapult the evening into further legendary status, but it was not meant to be.

A homecoming for both acts (The Time last played there in 2001), the faithful were nevertheless rewarded by a solid evening of soul, funk, r&b, and rock ‘n roll that is the Minneapolis Sound.

Morris Day and the Time / Judith Hill & Fam at Paisley Park, Chanhassen (29 Jan 2016)

john ([email protected]) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com/weheartmusic

Prince in 2016: New Music, Distribution, and PPAD: The Time, and Back in Time

Prince Piano and Mic-Photo courtesy Princestagram Read More Prince Though he and band 3rd Eye Girl managed some hit-and-run random concert dates, mostly in Europe and there were sporadic gigs back home at Paisley Park … Judith Hill Midnight: members of the invited media (Star Tribune, Fox9, City Pages, The Current) are escorted back to Paisley’s Studio A, for what turns out to be an introduction to singer Judith Hill, a preview of her new music, and some Q+A. …

“So Far, So Pleased” –  not only a song title from a 1999 album, but the general way most Prince fans (or fams as they are called) are feeling of late, about the Purple One’s output to start this calendar year.

New Music

After releasing HITnRUN Phase One (NPG/Univeral Records) last September, an electronic-tinged album collaboration with producer Joshua Welton that was met with mixed reviews, the follow-up and 39^th (!) studio album, HITnRUN Phase Two (NPG Records) was more of a solo affair and return to the rock, funk, and brass sound most recognize him most  from.

Released digitally in mid-December, Phase Two was met with generally positive reviews, with Rolling Stone calling the record “his most consistently engaging album in years” and embodying “what he does best”.

Distribution

Ever a believer in artist’s creative rights and eliminating the middleman where possible, Phase Two was initially released digitally to paid subscribers of the Jay Z-led streaming online site, Tidal, where Prince had already contributed the upload of most of his catalogue, a Purple Pick song of the Week, and partial live stream of a Rally4Peace concert.

After being disappointed with sales numbers and record company distribution efforts for Phase One, he turned to Twitter to ask fans’ opinions on a new way of distributing the current album to those waiting for a physical copy and has taken a street level, targeted approach to getting the hard copies out in the wild.

Yesterday, they were delivered to a local Minneapolis record store and NPG has also allowed select members of the Purple Community to buy in-bulk wholesale, to resell at a fair price to their friends and contacts.

Results of this experiment are yet to be determined, but odds are he will also cut a direct deal with a few major chain stores (Target, Best Buy, both HQ’d locally) to eventually sell there as well.

Paisley Park After Dark

What started out as a semi-regular series of late night affairs of dance party get-togethers at Paisley Park in suburban Chanhassen, MN spotlighting local and a few national artists (always overshadowed by a “will-he-or-won’t-he-play” mystery); for 2016, these PPAD nights have been more organized and defined.

The usual mystique of learning of a show often on the day-of, has thankfully been replaced by actual advance notice, even with several weeks heads-up regarding his recent Piano and a Microphone performances on a Thursday January night, that allowed the ever-faithful appropriate time to book travel and hotel, many coming over from Europe and the Far East.

A planned European solo tour of this configuration was scuttled in lieu of scalpers selling tickets at inflated prices before they had even gone on sale, and the Paris attacks on Bataclan, which shook music goers everywhere.

The result was Prince announcing two solo special performances at his own place with the early and late solo shows being very different, stark, and intimate. The earlier 8pm show had songs being played in a (mostly)linear timeline and was perhaps his most personal and revealing set ever, though both shows received glowing reviews.

The Time and Back in Time

Following up those piano shows with performances from Larry Graham and local prog-funk outfit PHO as well as a DJ night, THIS FRIDAY continues the PPAD series with a rare appearance at Paisley Park from the current incarnation of Morris Day and the Time as well as rising songstress and Grammy winner Judith Hill, who had her debut album, last year’s Back in Time, recorded at Paisley and was produced by Prince.

Advance sales (once unheard of for these gatherings) are available at new site paisleyparkafterdark.com which uses the reliable and trustworthy Songkick/Crowdsurge software to process these ticketless transactions, and from all reports at the piano shows, was problem-free at check-in.

The Future

What else is to come in 2016? Only the Purple Yoda knows, though he’s off to a good start – it’s often hard and requires patience to be an ongoing Prince fan (or fam), but 2016 is paying off in dividends so far.

john ([email protected]) ♥ weheartmusic.com ♥ twitter.com/weheartmusic