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Prince: A Profile
Prince Rogers Nelson, arguably the most famous musician from the North Star State, was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 7, 1958. After high school, Prince immersed himself into music, and within a decade, became an entertainment phenom. His legacy on the music scene still reverberates today.
Prince’s musical genius as a musician, composer, innovator, and a cultural icon resulted in thousands of songs and dozens of albums, His illustrious catalog of work includes the huge hit album Purple Rain and the critically acclaimed Sign of the Times, amongst others.
Prince died of an accidental overdose of fentanyl at the age of 57.
Please note: Most content related to this topic that is contemporary can be found on our main content pages of MPR News, YourClassical MPR, The Current, APM Reports, and Marketplace.
25 Collection Items
- For these Black Minnesota musicians, Prince still reigns
Although Prince's death had a profound impact on fans of all racial backgrounds, for some black Minnesotans his loss was especially meaningful. MPR’s Doualy Xaykaothao talks with two local musicians who reflect on Prince on a personal level.
- Prince block party at Sabathani Community Center in South Minneapolis
A block party to honor Minnesota music icon Prince drew hundreds to South Minneapolis. At Sabathani Community Center, formally Bryant Junior High, DJs played famous Prince records and food vendors served carnival treats.
- Lawmakers pay tribute to Prince, including a "Purple Rain" performance
MPR’s Tom Weber highlights state legislators paying tribute to Prince after his death on April 21st, 2016. Segment includes audio of state representatives Peggy Flanagan and Mike Freiberg performing “Purple Rain” on the floor of the Minnesota House.
- Looking back at Prince's career
MPR’s Euan Kerr looks back at the career of the famed Minnesota musician Prince, who passed away April 21st, 2016. In profile, Kerr interviews numerous individuals who knew him, worked with, and appreciated the musical genius.
- Andrea Swensson reflects on her personal moments with Prince
Morning Edition’s Cathy Wurzer talks with The Current’s Andrea Swensson about her personal interactions, memories, and thoughts on the life and music legacy of Prince.
- The Current broadcast announcement of Prince's death
The Current Local Show host Jade Tittle checks in with The Current’s Andrea Swensson at Paisley Park, who verifies on-air that Prince has died. A heart-broken Swensson shares a brief personal account of the musician.
- Jimmy Jam remembers Prince
MPR’s Tom Crann interviews songwriter Jimmy Jam about the death of music genius Prince. Jimmy Jam shares reflections on Prince and his legacy.
- Andrea Swensson describes the scene at Paisley Park Studios
All Things Considered’s Tom Crann talks with The Current’s Andrea Swensson, who describes the scene at Paisley Park Studios in Chanhassen after the death of Prince at his home complex. There is a miles-long traffic jam leading to his studio and regular concert venue.
- Local Prince fans mourn his death in Chanhassan
MPR’s Matt Sepic gets reaction from local Prince fans upon the news of musician’s unexpected death. The Minnesota-born international superstar whose sound revolutionized pop music and put the Minneapolis scene on the map, was found dead earlier in the morning at his Paisley Park studios in Chanhassen.
- Prince's music melded the best of musical styles
MPR’s Euan Kerr reports on the career of the musical genius Prince. Kerr interviews numerous individuals who reflect on Prince.