The year has not been kind to music; with the passing of David Bowie, Glenn Frey, Lemmy and others, 2016 was off to a bad start. When the news of the untimely death of music legend Prince hit the news, many at first believed it to be a hoax until a statement from the icon’s publicist emerged. It was almost impossible to believe that the man who influenced so many was gone. His music, his personality, his style, his intelligence and his humanity created a combination that is once in a lifetime. Now, all the world can do is reflect on Prince’s extensive and world-changing life. Look below for just a small sample of the historic musician’s work.
Best guitar solo
At the 2004 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, the likes of Tom Petty and Steve Winwood graced the stage with Prince to perform “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” to honor the late George Harrison. It was already a pretty special performance by iconic rockers, but when Prince launched into one of the most righteous guitar solos of all time, the rest of the musicians were just as shocked and enthralled as the audience. Notably, George Harrison’s son, Dhani Harrison, looked completely flabbergasted—though who wouldn’t? Watch Prince’s legendary solo on YouTube.
Most iconic performance
Super Bowl performances can sometimes be incredibly lackluster, but when you mix together a crowd of thousands, rain and Prince, no one could expect anything less than a historic set. Miami in 2007 had the honor of witnessing probably the best Super Bowl halftime show since the founding of the event. With the stage designed as Prince’s Love Symbol, the musician shredded through songs including “Baby I’m a Star” and “Purple Rain.” There is nothing more fitting than Prince performing “Purple Rain” surrounded by fantastic purple lights, a showering of rain and a crowd screaming their praise. Watch the set on YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_czx0hWPlI
Best album
It’s impossible to remember Prince without talking about his album “Purple Rain.” The album has sold over 20 million copies and won two Grammys in 1985. Since the album is a soundtrack, it also garnered an Oscar for “Best Original Song Score.” “Purple Rain” is, notably, the first of Prince’s albums to include backing band “The Revolution.” The album is routinely considered one of the best of all time and features songs such as “When Doves Cry,” “I Would Die 4 U,” and, of course, “Purple Rain.” Pick up a physical copy, if you can—this album isn’t on Spotify and most likely never will be (though it is available on Tidal and iTunes).
“Purple Rain” will be showing at Red Rocks on May 12 in honor of the musician.
