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Following is a really long and detailed review of the celebration that contains tracklists and details from the week. If you do not want this information, you may cease reading now. :)

Well, the Celebration is over now at Paisley Park. Just to start, this year' s Celebration is much better than last year's. Though there wasn't such a big "closeout" garage sale, there was a few gems that I got while I was here. Also, the tours of Paisley this year were not guided, giving people free reign of the first 2 levels of the Park. Unfortunately, there was no Vault listening room, though we were waiting for it. :)

All in all, this year's celebration was MUCH better organized than last year 's, and Prince was MUCH more accessible. During the week, I'd heard from a little bird that NPG Music Club and NPG Online weren't getting a whole lot of positive feedback on their content/design etc., which was a surprise to me. I urge anyone who likes NPG Music Club to write to the address on the web page and tell them what you like about it. I plan to do that when I get back. Personally, the Music Club has far exceeded any expectations I've had for it, and I wouldn't even think twice to renew my membership. They've pretty much read all feedback they've received and adjusted the music club with the users in mind. Just a random comment. It was also cool to be in the big soundstage because we could go to the bathroom and be able to come back in the room, unlike last year.

While walking around here, I met a whole lot of really cool people, just like last year. In fact many of the people I saw here were here last year.go figure. :)

Things that made this year's Celebration better than last year's:

  • Much more organized. Still wish we could get the Celebration dates 6 months in advance to make sure we can get the time off from work, but I guess I shouldn't complain because I was still able to get there. :) What would Prince be if it wasn't for the last minute? :)
  • Bigger room for the dance parties made it less stressful to get in. Last year, if you didn't get there at 9 when it first started, you didn't get into the room where Prince was or where the band was performing.
  • If you were standing in the back of the soundstage during the performances, you could see a whole lot better than last year. I was hanging out towards the back most of the time, and I wasn't squashed to death, which made me enjoy it a lot better.
  • The music was better this year. prince guested with just about everyone who played, adding to their set. Additionally, the only band I had any expectations of throughout the week was The Time, and I enjoyed (much more than I thought I would) just about every band who played. The best surprise was Erykah Badu, who just rocks. She's so cool. I didn't know any of her music coming into Paisley Park, and I'm probably gonna buy a couple of her cds now.
  • Free reign of Paisley Park was pretty cool. Never thought I'd be just hanging out in the Atrium for no reason. :)
  • Access to the Monday soundcheck was awesome. You'll never hear me complain about being one of about 200 people to get into a soundcheck. :)
  • Security was much calmer than last year. I didn't really notice any problems, with the exception of one drunk person who was removed from Paisley, so I was glad they didn't have the "(security is) doing you a big favor by letting you in" attitude.
  • Lines to get in moved much more quickly than last year.
  • It was easy to get into the afterparties after the 2 Excel concerts, unlike last year, when I waited more than 3 hours to get in (and barely did).
  • Always cool to see people from all over the world who have the same interests as you.
  • The barbecue this year planned by the Bay NPG party was better than last year, with a bigger turnout. I'm still bitter about losing the karaoke contest though! :)
  • Bunkers Bar on Monday night was at least as good as last year, if not better...always good to see Michael B and Margie Cox play with the "legendary combo." Wish they'd play at Paisley Park one of the nights though...

    Here's a daily account of some of the things that will make this trip memorable for me:

    Paisley Park-Monday

    Saw Damon D, who was one of the original "game boys" from the New Power Generation, on the way in. We got in about 1 hour late. All of us had separate listening rooms per about 40 people per room. Our listening party was in the game room, and we were told we could play pool after the Q&A session. Wandered Paisley Park after listening in an unguided tour, and was told not to play ping pong in the game room. Was talking with a friend when I was called into the big soundstage at Paisley by my brother to see Prince starting another impromptu 20-minute q&a session, this time on the rainbow children and "the truth" Good timing too, since he locked the door behind me and about 100 people got into this session.

    As for the Rainbow Children cd, let's just say there were a few good tracks on there, and a bunch that weren't so good, in my opinion. I'm waiting for the High cd, instead of Rainbow Children. :)

    After that, we were all kicked out of Paisley so they could rehearse. As we were heading away, a bunch of people started hurrying back into the studio as Prince decided 2 let us into the soundcheck. We listened 2 part of the soundcheck through the wall and saw about the last 30 minutes of it.

    Set list:
    Gett off (houstyle)
    DAT intro
    Uptown
    Controversy
    Mutiny
    The work (shortened version)
    Cream
    Little Red Corvette
    Ballad of Dorothy Parker/4

    (we were let in)
    4
    U make my sun shine
    I could never take the place of your man

    Then we were told they had to set up for Amiel Leroux who played that night, so we finally left Paisley park.

    After a tornado warning and some scary looking skies and golfball-sized hail, we went to Bunkers to see the Combo featuring Margie Cox (standing at the altar) and Michael B., with special guest Jellybean Johnson, who we all wished would have played Paisley because they're really good. It was an awesome show, and anyone who can get to Bunkers to see them really should.they play every Monday night. Last year this was one of the highlights and it was again this year.

    We got to Paisley around 2 am, and Amiel Leroux was just ending. When I walked in, I saw George Clinton, Michael B. and Prince and the NPG hanging around the back area. Apparently all I missed tonight was them playing the full High, VaVoom and My Medallion. Leroux apparently was sick and her band almost didn't make it, so they started to set up Prince's stuff for him to play, but tore it down when she arrived around midnight, apparently. There were still rumors that Prince was gonna play, and he did. J They set up Prince's equipment pretty fast after the Leroux show and Prince came on at 2:50 for a 40-minute set.

    He played:
    Guitar jam over the studio version to Daisy Chain
    777-9311 (short version) prepping the crowd for the Time tomorrow night
    que sera sera
    funk jam where the audience kept trying to get him to play Northside-it kinda sounded like alphabet st.
    when u were mine
    bambi
    and god created woman/3 chains of gold (!!!!!)..
    still would stand all time
    delirous/jack u off (instrumental)

    In the middle of the show he played air guitar with habibi and he was telling the audience it was invisible funk. That was pretty funny. He sat at his piano and played the ending of Still Would Stand all time.no verses but it was still cool. And Delirious/jack u off sounded like it did during the lovesexy tour, though Jack U off was an instrumental this time. Que sera sera was sung over the music 2 U make my sunshine by Millenia at first but then Prince came in to sing a couple of verses.the song was like 7 minutes long

    Tuesday-Prince took part in the Q&A session following the Rainbow Children listening party. Apparently Kevin Smith, who directed Clerks, Dogma and Chasing Amy, filmed it. I missed this, since Prince didn't do this on Monday after our session. We got to see a rehearsal by the Funky Baldheads, who I really like. Anyways, at 4 they closed Paisley Park so The Time could rehearse and that was that for the day.

    The concert that night was pretty amazing. We got there through the middle of the Baldheads set. The audience seemed to be into them. When I got in, I ran into Levi Seacer Jr. I was really surprised to see him, since I heard he had a falling out with Prince, but he said they never had a falling out. He admitted that it was his first time at Paisley in about 10 years..go figure. J Then I saw the best Time concert I'd ever seen. They played Blondie, My Drawers, Jerk Out, Fishnet, Oak Tree and a bunch of other random songs. Prince guested on stage during Cool and Jungle Love. Morris asked Prince to sing the second verse of Cool, which he did. George Clinton also guested on stage for some incoherent song about a booty. The audience LOVED the Time..I 've seen them live about 5 times and this was by far the most energy they've had as well as the best set they've played.

    Maceo Parker came on at about 2am, and we heard Prince wanted to play with Larry Graham afterwards, but Maceo played more than 2 ½ hours, which was waaaaaaaaay too long at that point of the night. Prince guested on stage during one song, playing guitar, before leaving the stage and Maceo playing Baby Knows. We were joking during the Parker set that this was Paisley Park' s version of the show Survivor.an endurance test for all. The Maceo set ended when his manager appeared in the front of the stage with a pissed off look on her face staring at her watch. It was pretty funny. At 4:30 the show ended and no Prince/Larry jam session that night.

    They played High, My Medallion, Daisy Chain, Sex Me Sex Me Not over the PA at the concert too.

    Wednesday-The Q&A session apparently lasted 3 hours with Prince, which was continued in a private meeting room with a few selected fams. Erykah Badu took the stage around midnight and played for about 2 hours. Prior to the concert I had never heard any of her music, and I've come to realize that she ROCKS! She took the stage with a burning piece of insense in her mouth.walking out real smoothlike, and her calm voice was just awesome! Prince guested on one song with her, as did rapper Common, who played Thursday night. Members from the Time were in the audience, as was Prince and Larry Graham.

    After the show was over, we danced to a really lame DJ, who was having problems mixing, obviously. They played the full High, plus the Beboptohiphop remix of Mad, Daisy Chain, My Medallion, Sex Me Sex Me Not and a few others. It was pretty cool.

    Thursday-The discussion groups were so large that they didn't open Paisley for tours, but instead had 2 discussions with Prince present for about 3 hours each. Kevin Smith again returned to film the discussions. As for the rest of us, we were allowed into the NPG Music Club room to watch what was supposed to be Under the Cherry Moon on the big screen, but ended up being Prince and the Revolution Live 1985. Cool to see on a big screen, finally after all these years.

    The concert was good too, with Alicia Keys sitting at the keyboards for about an hour, playing all her stuff including How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore. She did the song as Prince would have, with the extended portion at the end, with the song ending with her pulling out a cellphone and calling Prince. He said hello and she hung up. It was pretty funny.

    Common came on around midnight, and played a 90 minute set which was highlighted by Prince playing keyboards on one song and singing vocals on The Light. Erykah Badu also came on stage for a few songs..the party ended at 1:30 (the afternoon in Prince terms) and continued in our rooms at the Chanhassen Inn until about 4:30..just for effect. J

    Friday-There were so many people who showed up for the listenin g session that they had to have 2 of them. So they cancelled the movie scheduled for the afternoon in order to accommodate the discussion groups. We'd heard conflicting rumors that VIP laminant holders or NPG Music Club members would be let into the concert at the Xcel Energy Center early at 6pm for the soundcheck, so we headed down early and they did let us in around 8pm.

    Here's what we heard at the soundcheck:
    Sexy Dancer
    Drum solo
    When u were mine (intro)
    When Doves Cry (loop)
    Turn Back Now (Millenia song)
    Uptown Instrumental
    When U Were Mine (first verse only)
    Voodoo Chile

    During the about 30-minute soundcheck, Prince kept barking orders to the techs and mentioned more than once that if they didn't like it, they wouldn' t get paid. Wonder who's in control there. J On Thursday night, Prince was walking around with a cane, and during the soundcheck he had it too, and mentioned that Kip Blackshire "kicked him in the leg" so he wouldn't be doing much dancing tonight.

    As for the regular concert, it started at 9:15, and Prince was basically on autopilot, giving a non-interesting Hit N Run performance that consisted of the following songs:

    DAT Intro
    Uptown
    Controversy
    Mutiny
    The Work (with Maceo Parker) - this was sung in his regular voice and didn't sound too good.
    Cream
    Little Red Corvette
    I Wanna Be Your Lover
    Sexy Dancer
    Housequake
    Ballad of Dorothy Parker/4
    U Make My Sun Shine
    I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man
    Do Me Baby
    Scandalous
    Diamonds and Pearls
    The Beautiful Ones
    Nothing Compares 2 U
    Let's Go Crazy
    Take Me With U
    Raspberry Beret
    Darling Nikki Intro
    Joy in Repetition
    Darling Nikki Outro
    When Doves Cry (he sung the first verse this time)
    Father's Song
    I Would Die 4 U
    God Instrumental
    Purple Rain
    Come On/I Like Funky Music/Turn Back Now (with Common and Erykah Badu)/Asswoop

    The show lasted about 1 hour 45 minutes, and featured the same three outfits he's warn throughout this tour. The night before, my friends and I asked each other which songs we'd never like to hear Prince play live again. We got the following answers: take me with u/Raspberry Beret medley, Purple Rain, and any song that he plays a couple of notes of and gives up on. Well, lucky us, that was what he played. Yay! J The only song he completed was Purple Rain, the rest of the songs were about 1 verse long.

    He did the intro to Darling Nikki, then said Hold Up, and started into Joy In Repetition. All he did from that song were "we like 2 frequent this club up on 36th, pimps and things like 2 hang outside and cuss 4 kicks.talking 2 no 1 in particular they say I am the baddest tonight. and there will be no 4-letter words, at least night tonight. " They then did the ending guitar solo and the song was over in 30 seconds. And that was the highlight of the whole show. Apparently the entire sound crew walked out prior to the concert, which could have been why the show was so short. Also, while crawling around on the floor during Scandalous, he hit himself in the head with the microphone stand.

    Actually, it was cool that my brother got on stage during Come On. Prince made a comment that his back was hurting watching him dance. It was amusing.

    Afterwards, we went to the afterparty at paisley Park, which was just a dance party (we did get the opportunity to stand out in the cold for awhile.for old times sake! J ), but Prince played the recent San Diego video (until the tape broke) and sat in the DJ booth for a bit singing along with Housequake and It's Gonna Be a Beautiful Night over the PA system. He mentioned that the Saturday show was gonna be different. Let's hope so!

    Saturday-The discussion group lasted 3 hours again after hearing the Rainbow Children cd, which caused them to start the movie later than I stayed at Paisley. Someone must have rented Sign of the times and Purple Rain from Blockbuster because I could see their packaging on it.

    The movie was to be Sign of the times.oh well.

    We were able to get in early for soundcheck. Not early enough though, apparently, since I could hear Prince sing I Can't Make U Love me in its entirety prior to them opening the gates. Oh well.

    Here's what I heard during the soundcheck:

    From outside:
    I can't make u love me
    Guitar instrumental

    From inside:
    When U Were Mine
    Let's work
    The undertaker
    Uptown
    Who wants to get funked up
    The Greatest Romance loop
    Kip Blackshire piano instrumental.

    Prince didn't do any singing during the soundcheck, except on I Can't Make U, which was before I got in.

    Anyways, the Fonky Baldheads got on stage at 9:15 and Prince guested on stage during a song called Passing Your Name. Not sure where I've heard it before, but I know I have somewhere.

    Prince came on stage at 10:15 and played a little more than 2 hours. At first, I was scared that this was gonna be another Hit N Run show, with the DAT intro and the second part of the show first, but he did play some rare gems. Here is the list of what he played:

    DAT Intro
    Let's Go Crazy
    Take Me With U
    Raspberry Beret
    Darling Nikki Intro/Joy In Repetition/Darling Nikki Outro
    When Doves Cry
    Father's Song
    I Would Die 4 u
    Baby I'm a Star
    God Instrumental
    Purple Rain
    When u Were Mine
    Bambi
    And God Created Woman
    3 Chains of Gold
    Anna Stesia (Instrumental)
    Still Would Stand All Time
    Adore
    Little Red Corvette
    I Wanna Be Your Lover
    Sexy Dancer
    Housequake
    Ballad of Dorothy Parker/4
    -Piano Medley:
    Free
    Starfish and Coffee
    Sometimes it Snows in April
    I Love u But I Don't Trust U anymore
    How Come u Don't Call Me Anymore
    Delirious
    If I Was Your Girlfriend
    U Got the Look
    Kiss
    Gett Off/Turn Back Now
    Come On/We Like 2 Get Funky/DVS Rap

    After last night's no-energy concert, just about every song he played sounded better tonight. Obviously all of the new songs were the ones that sounded best, and this time he completed Adore, I Love U But I don't Trust U, How Come U Don't Call Me and If I was your girlfriend. The piano medley was awesome.I've always wanted to see one of those in person. Adore was awesome, 'nuff said. I love that song. All of the NPG Music Club people went wild when they played the last part of Still Would Stand All Time. He also did more of Sometimes it Snows in April than I've seen him do before, which was another huge crowd favorite. People also freaked out when he did Starfish and Coffee, the first time I've ever seen him do it live. He did the same Darling Nikki/Joy medley that he did last night, with the line about 4-letter words before fading out the song. He wore a few different outfits tonight too. J During How Come U Don't Call Me, the audience surprised Prince by doing the "ooh ooh ooh" thing they did during the Purple Rain tour.Prince started laughing and then played along with it. Kevin Ewbanks from the Tonight Show came and sat a few seats away, but left before the encores.

    And last year, as we almost got a Revolution reunion (minus Wendy and Lisa), this year, there was almost a Game Boys reunion (Kirk and Damon danced on stage without Tony M (who wasn't there) during Sexy Dancer).

    They announced the afterparty at Paisley Park (duh, where else was it gonna be) and I hauled out of there to Paisley. We got into Paisley around 2am.

    About the second song I heard over the PA was a different unreleased mix of Hot Wit' U with TOTALLY different lyrics that sounded like house music. This must have been from the Hot Experience, which will probably never be released. This version was really cool. There was some lyric about being underneath a pool and filming, and he kept interrupting the Eve rap at the end, which he apologized once. Though it was obvious there wasn't gonna be an aftershow since there was no stage setup and all of the equipment was still at the Excel Center.

    During the party, they showed the portion of that night's show from Little Red Corvette through Ballad of Dorothy Parker.

    At some point during the night, they played the loop for Pretty Man at the DJ booth, then Maceo Parker came out at the DJ booth and played live to the loop. Then Prince came out and sang over the loop with Maceo playing along with him. Then DVS of the Fonky Baldheads did the rap from Daisy Chain over that loop. Afterwards, Prince did another song (can't remember what it was) over the studio version, and also sang along with Parliament's Give Up the Funk and James Brown's Sex Machine before leaving the DJ booth. They also played Vavoom, My Medallion, High, Rainbow Children and the Father Son Holy Ghost from Rainbow Children, along with the Mad Bebop2hiphop mix before they ended the party around 4:45. At the end of the party, they announced there would be an "All Star Jam" after Nikka Costa's show on Sunday.

    Sunday-The last day of the celebration. The Bay NPG had a barbecue at Lake Ann Park that drew about 150 people and lots of food. When I got back to the hotel, I checked NPGONLINE and they posted a photo of my brother dancing with Prince and others during Come On on Friday night.

    The concert at the Park tonight by Nikka Costa was plagued by sound problems. Twice during the show one of the speakers completely blew out and all of the vocals were inaudible, which is probably why Prince didn't play at all tonight. Lots of tired people danced like zombies waiting for word about a concert that never came. Nikka's set lasted about an hour, beginning at 11:45. She did a cover of Anotherloverholenyohead during the show which got the crowd going.

    They played the song High, plus My Medallion before we left early at around 2:45, and Tommy Barbarella and Michael B from the original NPG plus Kevin Ewbanks from the Tonight Show band were in the audience during the show. Though I left early, Prince apparently came out and thanked the crowd for coming and announced there would be a celebration next year. The last song played at the dance party was Goodbye, from the Crystal Ball cd.

    Apparently the listening session on Sunday afternoon went from 9:30 am until 6:30pm...I didn't attend this one, but Prince was present for more than 4 hours of the discussion and they talked mostly about the cd, religion, schooling. Prince apparently mentioned that NPG Music Club members would be admitted to all of the soundchecks wherever he plays, yet another reason to join the music club if u haven't done so already.

    What would I change if I could next year?

  • Access to listening sessions of unreleased vault music. We can always dream. :)
  • More prince music at the nightly parties. The DJ obviously just bought the Gwen Stefani/Eve cd and the new Janet Jackson, because he played those songs a few times every night. People gathered at Paisley to get their fix of Prince, so the DJ should give that to them, instead of normal club music. :) Like they did last year, they could also play a full concert or 2 from the vault that people may not have seen, like a random aftershow from the Lovesexy era, instead of a Blockbuster-music-rented movie. :)
  • A Paisley-planned barbecue...though I hear this may be in the works for next year. :)
  • A Prince concert where he plays random songs he never plays...none of the hits...for the group. The people who come to the Celebration are the diehards. They've all heard the hits before. ;)
  • More opportunities to eat at Paisley. I was in hunger-deprivation mode a lot there. :)
  • A place to give feedback on the NPG Music Club, both positive and negative. I heard a lot of people talking positive about the club...we should really pass that along...
  • More stuff to buy. Every day, the gift shop was pretty much sold out of everything. This should be a hint---put out more stuff! :)

    Over all, this was well worth the expense, and a lot better run (with a lot less stress) than last year's celebration. And will I be there next year? Most definitely, as long as I can swing it at work. :)

    High Prince and the NPGMC,

    My husband and I would just like to take the opportunity to say thanks a million for sharing such a wonderful experience with us. You and NPG are definitely a cool crew! We really enjoyed vibing with you on Saturday and learning of your experience of discovery with the SUPREME one! It's great to know. I felt connected to so many people in the group after that. We shared hugs, email, phone numbers etc. It's very clear that the Rainbow Children is already a meaningful success. If at all possible, could we know when the CD will be released or the taping of our listening discussion? We would love to recap it all and share it with our family! Also, a special thanks to the cool dancer guy who kept everyone awake in the mornings with the B-Ball, loved doing the Cha-Cha slide with U:)) Continued success on your journey of knowledge and we look forward to seeing you in Chi-Town next month.

    Much Love and God Bless!!
    Dion and Susan Strowhorn(Genesis)Of Course:))))

    LOVINGLY BIASED, BUT TRUE
    By Pamela Snow Kinney
    Licensed Graduate Social Worker

    If someone desires to know Minneapolis' own Prince Rogers Nelson, not the genius musician or stylish celebrity, but the individual, it is possible to do so. It was especially possible the week of June 11-17, 2001 at Paisley Park, where the Rainbow Children Celebration took place. The commemoration was an occasion, where the public could freely walk around his worksite/domicile, sit and relax on cozy, yet luxurious chairs and couches layered with elegant and colorful hand made pillows. It was an occasion where one could stay for hours, behold the visually exhilarating decor, and just be present in the loving energy of his environment. Available was an opportunity to peruse the multitudes of award, honors, and framed albums. One could examine state of the art music studios and equipment. And it was a chance to catch glimpses of personal treasures ranging from custom made instruments, pictures (including one of his father), and pieces of art work, including sculptures, paintings, and of course, his chic apparel. Additionally, it was an opportunity to ascertain and experience the extraordinarily warm, welcoming, respectful, loving and generous host he is. A host who invites people to watch him rehearse, perform, listen to new material, socialize, hold discussions, and simply to be in the moment. It was easy to view his incredible music, business and security staff, and to see how they all demonstrated what an extension they are of him, his kindness, and his generosity. He is truly surrounded by special people, all doing their individual tasks in ways, which signal to people how much they value their boss, their work and their mission. It is obvious, to the cognizant, that the mission is one of unity, love, and peace. It is one, which attempts to enlighten and raise the consciousness of the world. It is a mission of racial, ethnical, and physical blindness, which only views at the soul level!

    Becoming an NPG music club member opens up a world of opportunity for knowing who the "True" Prince is, and understanding how committed he is to living a Truthful life. Thank you Prince for providing such a gift and for being such a luminous example.

    Pamela Snow Kinney
    (NPG music club member)

    I just wanted to thank you also for a really fun week. I hope there is one next year also. It's fun to see all the people come in from all over the world to this, maybe by next year Highway 5 will look a little better. I was amazed at the diversity of the people at the concert - it was really cool.

    Dear Prince, NPG, & Paisley Park Staff,

    We just returned to New Mexico after spending a great week with all of you at Paisley Park and attending both concerts. We wanted you to know how much fun we had and how much we appreciated the open access you gave us to Paisley Park. It's truly an amazing place. We formed many new friendships with others who share a love for your music, as well as with members of your courteous and helpful staff such as Lynn, Anthony, and Fred.

    Prince - We really love the new album and hope you release it soon. Although many in discussion groups chose to get into religion, your music was full of truth and spirituality. Thanks so much for the Rave In2 album. We love all the remixes. Thanks for making all of your music club members feel like VIP's throughout the week. Finally, thanks for making yourself so accessible to everyone. It meant alot to actually meet you and speak with you twice (even though I only managed to say Hi and Thanks). Guess it was a bad case of PPS (Prince Proximity Syndrome).

    We are already making plans to attend again next year. See U then.

    Rob & Diana Milburn
    Diehards in Silver City, NM

    Much props to P, Trevor, Billy Sparks and the crew at Paisley for letting me come to the Park and play with u at the Celebration. The staff at Paisley couldn't have been nicer or more polite, and your planning, organization and execution went above and beyond. U guys really learned from what went wrong last year and went above and beyond this year to make it successful. I can only imagine what next year will be like.

    As a former executive committee member of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Assn., I know how many long, long hours of planning and hard work that it takes to produce an event of this magnitude with guests from all over the world. We start planning over a year ahead. U guys had three weeks to prepare last year and six weeks this year. If this becomes a yearly event and the staff at the Park has a year to plan for next year's Celebration, the possibilities are endless.

    Thanks to God for not serving liquor. Please, please keep it that way. Believe me, after seeing how much drunks interfere with the New Year's Eve staging of the Rose Parade, during which we block off five square miles so that we can move 60 floats into position for the Parade, I know how difficult it is to handle a large crowd. We need 935 members, 2,000 police and security guards and a communications system capable of handling a major earthquake to pull it off, and u guys did it with a small but efficient crew. I think it was wise to have private security for the mundane jobs so that Trevor's crew could concentrate on protecting the P from the rude fans who stare. If P is nice enough to invite us into his crib for a week, we should RESPECT his privacy. Fortunately, many of the gawkers who came last year stayed home this year. Thanks for moving the stage from the NPG Music Club room to the sound stage. What a difference, I felt much more comfortable this year and I think it created a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for everyone concerned.

    I have just 2 suggestions for next year. I would love to see P and the NPG do more late night jams at the Park. I was blessed to be able to see the dawn at the NBA All-Star game party as P played the symbol guitar (eye have the tat on my right arm) for the first time. When P plays the Park the vibe is supercalifragisexy, and I'd give anything to see some late-night jams next year. I love seeing the sunrise as I walk out of Paisley. I didn't come from LA to Uptown to sleep. Please, please, please, please, please, let the NPGMC premium fams hear jams from the vault next year. I loved the nightly performances and the mix of the old school with the new. Seeing the Time brought back the good, old Times.

    P, thanks for jamming on the keys with Morris, Jerome and the Time. Thanks for introducing me to new music from Ms. Costa and Bandu. I probably would have never connected with them if not for u, because I detest the pabulum that radio has become. Thanks for giving me something to ponder with the heartfelt music of the Rainbow Children. The sharing of ideas with people of all faiths and colors from around the world was much more enlightening than merely touring the park. Thanks for not having formal tours this year. I was able to soak in much more because I could closely examine the gold and platinum records. Everything was a blurr last year. Lastly, thanks to P and the NPG for a truly marvelous show Saturday. I've been a fam since the start and I stopped counting at 50 shows. P and the NPG were Willing to Do the Work, and u worked me and the rest of the crowd into a frenzy. Thanks for letting us in for soundchecks. When u did it in Oakland I thought I was dreaming. The $100 I spent for the club has been the best money I ever spent. I can't believe the perks. Thank u, Thank u, Thank u, Thank u, Thank u, Thank u, Thank u, Thank u.

    Take care. God Bless!

    JCB

    THANK YOU all soo much! Please Please Please do this again next year .. and the next year .. and every year after that! Prince is such an amazing man .. I LOVE him! :) again, I just want to say thanks for letting us fams experience the magic that is Prince and his Paisley paradise!

    Amy

    Humph, thank me, better yet, thank YOU for a totally wonderful experience. I didn't arrive in St. Paul from New York until Friday night, but the two days I spent in the purple glow were unforgettable... beyond anything I could have imagined! To think I sat in a three hour discussion with my favorite artist *smile*. ( I am still speechless) I was equally astonished when, after arriving home and logging onto the Music Club, I saw my and my husband's picture posted on the Celebration Site. That is soooo cool of y'all. (although it is not my best side shown). I would love to see interview in its entirety. Could I get a copy of the tape. I would pay for any expense to you, of course.

    Thanks again for the memories. I'll definitely return next year with others!
    Tanya Ellis

    To all that it concerns:
    Prince, NPG Music Club, & Paisley Park Studios,

    I must thank U for a wonderful experience at the Celebration this year. I never imagined that this year would turn out to be 10 times better than last year's event. There was obviously a lot of thought put into the organization of this year's event, and it showed.

    Prince, I hope you realized what a treasure you have in Stephanie (MY sunshine) and Samnation. Their efforts should be commended for such a great job of making this year's Celebration truly a "family affair." A little bird told me that Stephanie was the planner this year, and that she pushed for a much "looser" atmosphere. This was the key to the whole event, the difference. Being able to walk through Paisley and just chill-out in any room without any hassle was the bomb! Last year was rushed and so uptight. Plus, Stephanie was always around, in the mix making sure folks were happy, and taking questions. With so much to do; the tour, the merchandise, the listening sessions, the discussion groups, and parties, she did a fantastic job with so little time to organize. Also, Props N' Pounds to Sam for hooking things up with the online input and activity. Prince please give these 2 a raise!

    I must mention Damon Dickerson. Prince, please put him on staff! Damon kept things live everywhere he went. The outside activities would have been dead without his energy and humor. He hipped us all to the "superman" dance! He is like the "uncle" that every family has that is "too real" and always keeps you laughing. I think he would be a great comedian if given the support (hint, hint). Damon was also insightful, and all in all a good brother. Let him MC next year. Much Love to Brother Damon.

    Most importantly, Paisley Security was the best! Please have Fred, Trevor, Saskwatch, Jason, and CJ back! They were professional but also cool as the other side of the pillow! (for sure)!

    Lastly, Prince thank U for opening up your house and taking time out from your busy schedule. Some people forget that U don't have to do this. You are appreciated. And while U didn't make it to my discussion group (Thurs.) I was able to catch you chilling out in the lobby area and ask U my "ONE question." I didn't get the answer I wanted, but you were still super cool with your response. (You are as funny in person as you are on film). Thanks to all NPG band members for hanging out at the parties (I know you were tired!). The only regret was that there was no NPG show on Sunday. But I know there were some technical problems. I appreciate your speech at the conclusion; it's the little things that mean so much. -I am willing to do the Work. About the new album?-I'll have to send a separate email. You have finally brought us the Truth in its most beautiful form...nuff said!

    Sorry my email was so long......Peace & LOve4Oneanother.
    -Raymond in Atlanta
    PS.-Stephanie please email me, I would like to continue our dialogue and send you a formal proposal about the "future project" we talked about. (U know !) :)

    NPGMC,

    THANK U!!!! Special THANKS 2 Morris Hayes, Kip Blackshire, John Blackwell, Fred & security, the ENTIRE staff @ Paisley Park & the NPG, and of course, Prince, 4 an INCREDIBLY FUN & XCITING week!!!!!

    I wish it didn't have 2 end so soon! And I hope they have a great tour/trip & open up The Park 4 Friday nite parties when they return.

    Cheers!
    Cristina

    That was a wonderful experience and very insightful! This year was definately better than last year as well as very enlightening. I want to thank you for everything this week. It was nice to have the listening stations so we could hear the June Ahdio show and Trax. OK, now it's vacation time for YOU!!!! LOL

    Peace, Luv, & Funk,
    Chris G.

    Thank you for sharing, it was a beautiful celebration. Can't wait to do it again.
    Aurora

    On Saturday, June 16th at the end of our discussion group I told Prince what my biggest fear in life was. Because of that question, Prince spent several hours talking to me, my friend, and one other girl. Just the four of use sat together like long time friends in his conferences room at Paisley Park. (I must apologize to everyone because that’s why the Saturday concert stared late) He alone made me see everything in my life differently. I know the path that he has laid out for me will be a very difficult one, but I just want him to know that I will do what he told me to do. I will also share the truth that he told me to share. That is that there is only one truth, and we all must travel our own path to it. Not to say that all religions will lead you to the truth. But if my mother taught me that 5 +2 = 7 and my friend mom thought her that 4 +3 = 7 and Prince’s mom may have though him that 6 + 1 = 7, so what I am saying is that wisdom teaches us that what you are taught at home is not the only way to find the truth. So if your belief says 3 + 3 is the way to the truth you are on the wrong path. You will find the truth, as I will in wisdom not church. It is up to use the rainbow children to make the difference, so if someone tells you that you have been “brainwashed” by Prince just say, “Well, my brain was dirty” and let them figure out the math.

    Love 2 love the love4oneanother
    Raquel

    I have no idea where to send this email (I figure they all end up at the same person anyway ;) but I just wanted to say thanks for the Celebration. It was an awesome time... a huge improvement from last year, certainly. All the trouble I went through getting tickets was worth it.

    Keep up the great work on NPG Online, the NPG Music Club, and hopefully next year's Celebration.

    Thanks again,

    - Samantha

    Much love for the most spirit building listening session I have ever experienced. We not only listened to the most uplifting and culturally spiritual cd of these confused times but we listened to each other. We spoke of truths and why they must become true to our growing life cycle as well as the process of the diverse becoming one under the sun. We came to gether to welcome all that is good and agreed to become even better. Larry Graham and Prince were instrumental while the 55 of us were of their equal (there were no leaders). To be the best that you can be, never practicing idolatry...thankful is the key to become one with thee. Hugs to my new found brothers and sisters....peace from Oaktown. Lennor

    I am English but I live in Germany now and spent a great week at the Celebration. Thank you for listening to our suggestions and putting them into play it made such a difference. Everyone felt far more relaxed and you provided us with countless wonderful surprises throughout the week too.

    The security staff and the regular staff were just wonderful, really friendly, helpful and made us feel welcome so a big thank you to those too. It was particularly wonderful to have Prince around so much and sitting and talking to people in the discussions...I was in Monday's so we didnt get to talk to him but I was thrilled for my friends who got filmed on Thursday with him.

    Just a suggestion........can we set up a kind of Celebration Committee consisting of fams and staff to organise, brainstorm ideas etc for next year? Reps from each country or age or whatever....!

    Again a big thank you to Prince for welcoming us and letting us to wonder around the Park so freely. Thank you too for the great music, the two superb concerts and the new album! We are truely spoilt!!!!

    Regards
    Alex

    high npgmc-team!

    THANK UUUU for an unforgettable and beautiful xperience and an extraordinary event!!! thanks to prince and all purple people involved, can't wait to come and celebrate next year with ya all!!

    keep the rainbow high
    Ingrid Cacciatori

    Thank U ! It was unforgettable. Thank Prince for all of us okay?

    Alyssa T.

    Hi Prince,

    We just wanted to tell you how much fun we had visiting your world at Paisley Park for the Celebration. Unfortunately, we were only there for the last 2 days, but got there just in time to see your fine _ _ _ up on the stage doing your thing. We stayed all night at PP, dancing our "u know what's" off. We couldn't get a tour of the studio this time, but trust me, we will be back. Sorry about shedding so many of our white feathers on the dance floor, but we just couldn't help it!!! Your dj, Dustin, is OFF the hook and kept us craving for more......We loved hearing you (the old and the new). Your security staff was so gracious and cool. It's not an easy job for them keeping the people from swarming on you, but they were awesome and very professional...especially Logan, Shane and Jerry. Nikka Costa and her band were amazing.....kinda of reminds us of Janice Joplin reincarnated into a hottie who can shake it!!!!! Your talk at the end of the night Sunday was so real and we do know and feel how much you love your fans. We hope to see more of you soon.

    Take a little rest.....you definitely deserve it!

    Ciao,
    Giana and Shika

    Please let Prince know that we "fams" thank him as well. I'm not very prolific with words. I'm not an artist or musician. I express my emotion through my smiles and tears. If my smiles and tears last week were any indication, I was in heaven.

    Saunya Connelly
    Gaithersburg, MD

    No - thank u! All things considered, u guys did a truly awesome job! From the travel agency 2 the final day of the Celebration, everything was just perfect! Count me in 4 next year - I can't wait! Thanks again!

    thank Ufor such a wonderful Experience this year at the Celebration. lookin 4ward 2 next year.
    SIR JAC

    High,
    Eye really wanted 2 say thank U, 2 all of U as well. It was a wonderful, educational, and enlightening week. Eye was a little nervous about coming at first, but eye felt extremely safe and welcome. So I just wanted to say a very special thank u 2 all the people and staff of the Celebration 4 being so warm to everyone.
    Love 4 One Another
    Grl

    Thank U (and Prince) 4 having us!!!!

    Jill

    I dont want to take too much of your time so let me sum this up I felt the tyme i was at the celebration that it was definitely a wondermint of an event. All the music, staff and spirits were incredible...what more can I say xcept THANK U so very much.

    GOD bliss ya.

    Sincerely
    SINGMIA~Arjuna
    *o)

    Thank You!!! Thank you for inviting us, thank you for welcoming us! My cousin and I flew all the way from San Francisco to see Prince and Paisley Park up close, live and direct. It was a great experience! The fans and everyone who works at Paisley Park were great. Friendly and helpful. What's up with the rest of the town? But regardless it was a treat to go and experience Minneapolis, and Paisley Park. The concerts were off the hook, and hanging out in the Paisley Park studios was extraordinary! Can't wait till next year! Thank you!!!
    Karla

    Thanks to Prince and all his staff "Willing to Do the Work" to enable the NPG Club to have such a wonderful experience!

    I attended last year and think that this year was even better!

    Great Work
    Sincerely,

    Lisa Mansavage of MPLS !
    ;)

    Hi! Thank U sooo much 4 an amazing 7 days! So, We really need 2 know--It's been a whole week since listening 2 "The Rainbow children" and I'm having withdrawals!!! It is so wonderful---When do we get to buy a copy????? I can't wait! :)