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Tag: Purple Rain

  • Jellybean Johnson, The Time’s Drummer, Dies at 69

    The music world is mourning the loss of Garry George Johnson, better known as Jellybean Johnson, the powerhouse drummer and producer who was instrumental in shaping the iconic Minneapolis Sound. Johnson, a key member of Prince’s funk-rock group The Time, passed away on November 21st at the age of 69. His family confirmed his death, though a cause has not yet been publicly released.

    A Minneapolis Sound Pioneer

    Recruited by Prince in 1981 from the influential Flyte Tyme collective, Johnson became a cornerstone of The Time. He and Prince had a connection that stretched back to their teenage years, a bond that fueled a legendary musical partnership. Johnson, a self-taught musician, was equally adept on drums and guitar, famously describing his drumming as “physical and violent” while his guitar playing was “spiritual and emotional.”

    His drumming provided the driving force behind The Time’s string of R&B hits, including “777-9311,” “Jungle Love,” and the chart-topping “Jerk-Out.” Johnson’s influence extended beyond his own band, as he also played with Prince’s band The Family and appeared in the classic films “Purple Rain” and “Graffiti Bridge.”

    Beyond The Time: Production and Legacy

    Johnson’s musical talents weren’t limited to performance. He forged a successful career as a producer and session musician, contributing to a wide array of projects. Notably, he played a role in Janet Jackson’s 1990 No. 1 hit “Black Cat.” His dedication to preserving the legacy he helped create was evident in his co-founding of the Minneapolis Sound Museum in 2021.

    Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians and collaborators. Sheila E., a close friend and frequent collaborator, shared her grief on Facebook, calling him a “kind human being, extremely talented and funny.” Susannah Melvoin of The Family also expressed her sorrow, remembering Johnson as “the master of loving you like no brother could!”

    A Lasting Impact

    Jellybean Johnson continued to perform in recent years, including participating in Grammy tributes to Prince. In 2022, he and The Time were honored with a Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting recognition for an artist who was truly one of the architects of an unmistakable American sound. His rhythm and innovation will be deeply missed.

    What are your favorite Jellybean Johnson performances or productions? Share your memories and tributes in the comments below!

  • Prince’s Enduring Legacy in Minneapolis

    Minneapolis holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers, largely due to its connection with the legendary Prince Rogers Nelson. For the first time, a visitor explores the city, discovering how deeply Prince’s spirit and artistry are woven into its fabric, from iconic venues to his personal sanctuary.

    A City Steeped in Musical History

    The author’s journey began with a romanticized image of Minneapolis, a city known not only as Prince’s home but also as the birthplace of musical powerhouses like Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Even a childhood reference in Janet Jackson’s ‘Escapade’ hinted at the city’s unique allure.

    The visit coincided with the premiere of the stage play adaptation of ‘Purple Rain,’ a fitting debut in the city that inspired the iconic film. Growing up, Prince’s music was a constant presence, with albums and the ‘Purple Rain’ soundtrack forming a significant part of the author’s life, especially the beloved track ‘I Would Die 4 U.’

    Pilgrimage to Paisley Park and First Avenue

    A key part of the Minneapolis experience was visiting Paisley Park, Prince’s famed recording studio and residence, where he tragically passed away in 2016. The author describes an almost eerie feeling, sensing Prince’s presence everywhere, as if he were still around the city.

    The journey also included a stop at the legendary First Avenue & 7th Street Entry nightclub, a central location in ‘Purple Rain.’ Standing on its stage and seeing the exterior walls adorned with stars of famous artists offered a tangible connection to Prince’s global impact.

    Prince’s Imprint on the City

    The author embarked on a Prince-centric sightseeing tour, visiting his childhood neighborhood in North Minneapolis, including homes he lived in and the Capri Theatre, where he played his first professional gig. Even a visit to the record store Electric Fetus revealed the albums Prince purchased shortly before his passing.

    What struck the author most was the sheer ubiquity of Prince’s presence. Murals, pictures, and the iconic Prince symbol are scattered throughout the city, creating a unique cultural landscape. This deep connection feels different from other artists’ legacies, perhaps because Prince remained so connected to his hometown.

    Reflections on George Floyd Square and Paisley Park

    The visit also included a stop at George Floyd Square, a poignant reminder of the city’s recent history. The author noted the local, grassroots nature of the memorial and was struck by the unexpected sight of a Prince symbol sculpture placed alongside Black fist art, underscoring Prince’s pervasive influence even in spaces dedicated to other significant movements.

    A tour of Paisley Park offered a surreal glimpse into Prince’s creative world. Seeing his instruments, the basketball court that inspired ‘Game, Blouses,’ and memorabilia from albums like ‘Musicology’ and ‘Batman’ provided a profound connection to his artistry. Although photos are restricted inside the studio, the soundstage area allows visitors to see cars, clothes, and pianos, further immersing them in his life.

    The ‘Purple Rain’ Play and Minneapolis Charm

    The ‘Purple Rain’ stage play was lauded for its phenomenal music and its ability to update the 1980s film for a contemporary audience, addressing problematic elements and reimagining others. The author left the theater feeling deeply moved, appreciating the play’s role in further immortalizing an artist who may not always receive his full due.

    Beyond the Prince-centric experiences, the author found Minneapolis itself to be a charming city—not too big, not too small. Enjoying diverse culinary experiences, from Ga Noi to The Market at Malcolm Yards and Matt’s for a Jucy Lucy, added another layer to the visit.

    The city’s vibrant Black community was also a notable observation, present from downtown skywalks to various neighborhoods. The Mississippi River added to the city’s beauty, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The author was surprised by the airport (MSP), finding it remarkably efficient, likening it to ‘Atlanta airport-lite.’

    Have you visited Minneapolis or Paisley Park? What does Prince’s legacy mean to you? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!

  • Purple Rain Musical Hits the Stage!

    Get ready, music lovers! Prince’s iconic 1984 film, ‘Purple Rain,’ is making a splash on the theatrical stage. The much-anticipated musical adaptation is gearing up for its pre-Broadway debut right in the heart of Prince’s hometown, Minneapolis. This is your chance to experience the magic of ‘Purple Rain’ like never before!

    Meet the Stars of the Show

    Stepping into the legendary shoes of The Kid is Kris Kollins, a talented multi-instrumentalist making his theatrical and acting debut. He’s joined by the soulful Rachel Webb, a Broadway performer known for her role in ‘& Juliet,’ who will be bringing Apollonia to life. Together, they’ll be performing the unforgettable hits that made the ‘Purple Rain’ album and film a global phenomenon.

    A Legacy Reimagined for the Stage

    This isn’t just a tribute; it’s a full-blown theatrical production brought to you by a powerhouse team. Tony winner Orin Wolf is producing, with a script by Pulitzer and Tony-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. The music is in expert hands too, with arrangements by Tony-winning Jason Michael Webb and direction from the Tony-nominated Lileana Blain-Cruz. Even Prince’s former bandmates, Bobby Z and Morris Hayes, are on board as music advisors, ensuring the authenticity of the sound.

    Director Lileana Blain-Cruz shared her excitement, calling it a ‘party’ and emphasizing the deep dive into Prince’s electrifying performances. Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins noted the immense pressure to honor Prince’s legacy, calling him the ‘Mozart of our time.’ He also shared a touching thought: ‘We heard through various people that at the end of his life he was actually considering making a musical; he loved the theater, you know, so I feel like in some ways this is the theatre trying to love him back or something.’

    The Music Takes Center Stage

    Jason Michael Webb, who has an impressive resume in theater, film, and television, found arranging the music for ‘Purple Rain’ to be a natural fit. He explained that Prince’s original work provided a strong foundation, making the adaptation feel organic. ‘The truth and the love of Prince’s music is so powerful that it is going to be the driving force,’ Webb stated.

    While the exact song list for the premiere remains a surprise, choreographer Ebony Williams hinted that the creative team is still fine-tuning the show. They’re open to making changes based on audience reactions, ensuring the musical resonates deeply with everyone who attends. ‘We’re still in the process, so like an audience could come one night and hear a song and maybe the next night if it didn’t feel like it affected the audience in the way that we thought, and if we hear criticism from the audience, maybe we might change that,’ Williams explained.

    Mark Your Calendars!

    The ‘Purple Rain’ musical is set to begin its preview run on October 16th, with the official opening night scheduled for November 5th at 6:30 p.m. at the State Theatre in Minneapolis. Ticket prices for previews range from $88 to $491, and for shows after November 5th, they range from $93 to $522. Don’t miss this chance to witness a piece of music history come alive on stage!

    Are you excited to see the ‘Purple Rain’ musical? What are your favorite Prince songs you hope to hear? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Purple Rain Musical Hits the Stage!

    Get ready, music lovers! Prince’s iconic 1984 film, ‘Purple Rain,’ is making a splash on the theatrical stage. The much-anticipated musical adaptation is gearing up for its pre-Broadway debut right in the heart of Prince’s hometown, Minneapolis. This is your chance to experience the magic of ‘Purple Rain’ like never before!

    Meet the Stars of the Show

    Stepping into the legendary shoes of The Kid is Kris Kollins, a talented multi-instrumentalist making his theatrical and acting debut. He’s joined by the soulful Rachel Webb, a Broadway performer known for her role in ‘& Juliet,’ who will be bringing Apollonia to life. Together, they’ll be performing the unforgettable hits that made the ‘Purple Rain’ album and film a global phenomenon.

    A Legacy Reimagined for the Stage

    This isn’t just a tribute; it’s a full-blown theatrical production brought to you by a powerhouse team. Tony winner Orin Wolf is producing, with a script by Pulitzer and Tony-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. The music is in expert hands too, with arrangements by Tony-winning Jason Michael Webb and direction from the Tony-nominated Lileana Blain-Cruz. Even Prince’s former bandmates, Bobby Z and Morris Hayes, are on board as music advisors, ensuring the authenticity of the sound.

    Director Lileana Blain-Cruz shared her excitement, calling it a ‘party’ and emphasizing the deep dive into Prince’s electrifying performances. Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins noted the immense pressure to honor Prince’s legacy, calling him the ‘Mozart of our time.’ He also shared a touching thought: ‘We heard through various people that at the end of his life he was actually considering making a musical; he loved the theater, you know, so I feel like in some ways this is the theatre trying to love him back or something.’

    The Music Takes Center Stage

    Jason Michael Webb, who has an impressive resume in theater, film, and television, found arranging the music for ‘Purple Rain’ to be a natural fit. He explained that Prince’s original work provided a strong foundation, making the adaptation feel organic. ‘The truth and the love of Prince’s music is so powerful that it is going to be the driving force,’ Webb stated.

    While the exact song list for the premiere remains a surprise, choreographer Ebony Williams hinted that the creative team is still fine-tuning the show. They’re open to making changes based on audience reactions, ensuring the musical resonates deeply with everyone who attends. ‘We’re still in the process, so like an audience could come one night and hear a song and maybe the next night if it didn’t feel like it affected the audience in the way that we thought, and if we hear criticism from the audience, maybe we might change that,’ Williams explained.

    Mark Your Calendars!

    The ‘Purple Rain’ musical is set to begin its preview run on October 16th, with the official opening night scheduled for November 5th at 6:30 p.m. at the State Theatre in Minneapolis. Ticket prices for previews range from $88 to $491, and for shows after November 5th, they range from $93 to $522. Don’t miss this chance to witness a piece of music history come alive on stage!

    Are you excited to see the ‘Purple Rain’ musical? What are your favorite Prince songs you hope to hear? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Apollonia Sues Prince’s Estate Over Stage Name

    It seems the legacy of the Purple One is facing a new legal challenge, this time from a familiar face. Singer and actress Patricia Kotero, famously known as Apollonia, has filed a lawsuit against Prince’s estate. The core of the dispute? The estate’s alleged attempt to trademark the very stage name that Prince himself bestowed upon her.

    A Name Given, Now Contested

    Filed on August 19th in Los Angeles, Kotero’s complaint argues that Prince encouraged her to adopt the name ‘Apollonia’ during their collaboration in the 1980s. For over four decades, she has performed, acted, and built her brand under this iconic moniker, with no objections raised by Prince or anyone associated with him during his lifetime. She asserts that Prince himself anointed her with the name.

    The lawsuit claims the estate’s recent move to trademark ‘Apollonia’ for clothing and entertainment, while simultaneously trying to cancel her existing registrations, is an effort to rewrite history and control her professional identity. As Kotero stated in her complaint, “There is only one Apollonia,” emphasizing her ownership and the source of goods and services provided under the name.

    Prince’s Estate Responds

    Apollonia’s connection to Prince is undeniable. She rose to fame as his leading lady in the legendary film ‘Purple Rain’ and later fronted the group Apollonia 6. She has consistently used the name across her various ventures in acting, music, and business. The estate’s actions, according to Kotero, could prevent her from using the name the world knows her by.

    Prince’s estate has publicly responded to the lawsuit, dismissing it as “frivolous” and unwarranted. A statement indicated they never told her to stop using her adopted name or objected to her business activities. In fact, they claim they have “repeatedly offered her opportunities to perform at Paisley Park using this professional name.”

    Seeking a Judicial Declaration

    Kotero’s suit frames the situation as a “real, immediate, and justiciable controversy.” She is seeking a judicial declaration that confirms her ownership of the trademark, arguing that she is the one who has embodied the character and kept the name alive through the years. This legal battle could determine who truly controls the legacy of the name ‘Apollonia’.

    What do you think about this legal battle over Apollonia’s stage name? Share your thoughts in the comments below!