Did you know Prince could have lived anywhere but chose to live in Minneapolis? He told Oprah that he would “always live” there. For a music legend, that is a big decision. Minneapolis was the only place he truly loved and the only place that could launch the Purple Rain stage show. This city was not just his home. It was the place that gave him his start.
Prince’s first solo show was at the Capri Theater in 1979. He was only 19 years old. Tickets cost less than five dollars! Today, a picture of that old flyer is on display in the lobby. He chose to build his life and his sound in this midwestern city. That choice kept him honest and grounded as he became famous worldwide.
Prince explains to @Oprah why he always chose to live in Minneapolis.
Fans still visit the iconic First Avenue club, famous from the Purple Rain movie. You can take a tour to step right onto the stage where he performed. The walls are covered with stars, but Prince’s legacy is everywhere, even a purple motorcycle replica in the parking garage. Fans love seeing the photos and learning about the music history made inside those doors.
Minneapolis is full of places that tell the story of Prince’s journey. You can ride the Prince Legacy Bus Tour to see his childhood home. He wrote his first song, “Funk Machine,” there when he was only seven. The tour shows you the Purple Rain house and the studios where he recorded his first music, helping you understand his deep city roots.
Inside Paisley Park: Secrets Of Prince’s Musical Wonderland | Access Hollywood
A special spot for all music fans is Electric Fetus. This record store has been open since 1968, and Prince was a regular customer. It was his last known public outing just five days before he passed away. He bought six albums that day. Seeing the albums he picked out feels like a final message from him to the world.
The love for Prince still covers the city. You can see murals all over, like the one on 1st Avenue. His private home, Paisley Park, is now open for tours for his fans. Follow the official Prince pages on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to keep his music and style alive.