Chicago, IL on March 2 (20 reports)

from Christina V

I have to say that Saturday night in Chicago with Prince was a lot different than I expected. The intro of Jazz fusion from Rainbow Children put us in a the funk, but it was not until Prince jumped off stage and danced with a fan who was too shy to get on stage that I felt the connection begin. When I saw him do this, I felt like he wasn't afraid to join us, his fans who adore hime, like he was showing us he was not above us, but would party right along with us. I love Jazz and really enjoyed the new work, I have to say that the jump into Roller Coaster with the beginning guitar riff was a nice segway, and just what I needed to get my a-- shaking.

I read an article in the Chicago Sun Times criticizing Prince for starting strong with Rainbow Children and then breaking into covers like Roller Coaster. I thought to myself, "Doesn' t this writer know it is exactly that unexpected vibe that we love?" I was also glad Prince took the time to play some of the most touching music he has written like Sometimes it snows in April, and Free. I sat alongside with my sister and cousin holding hands and singing God is Love and Love is God, I truly felt like I was having a night alone with Prince, and God as well.

Prince, if you have a chance to read this, I have one thing that stood out most in my mind from that night. My whole life I have loved your music and artistic capabilities. I know that in your professional career you have probably been faced with many choices and dark realities. When you spoke and said that along the way you have been in dark places and done things that you shouldn't have, I want to say thank you for being so honest. In following your career for so long, I knew that was the case, but to hear you have an intimate conversation with us like that made me feel pretty close to someone who has touched my life, even though I will never get to tell you in person. So thanks again,

Love, Christina V.

from Tawana

Hello Fam,
Saturday, March 2, 2002 was my first concert by the GREAT one!!!!! I was so excited!!! To see him live and in person filled my heart with so many unbelievable emotions. I went to the concert with my father....the one who introduced the artist to me...and we were in awe! I have loved Prince ever since I can remember (I am 27 by the way)and it was truely remarkable to see him for my first time! The artist was phenomenal....he never ceases to amaze me. Prince is one artist that truely stands the test of time. He is every bit as talented, if not more, as he ever was. The concert was great and I am glad that I got to experience it with my dad...we screamed until I lost my voice! There was one moment when I looked at my dad and noticed that he had tears in his eyes.....it was during Anna Stesia. My dad had just lost his best friend earlier in the week and it really hit him hard. He turned to me and said...."He(Prince) must have just lost someone close to him cause I can feel it in my chest". I didn't know what to say but we just held each other and listened to the song. And it was truely a "moment" for me and my dad. What else was cool about the concert is...it was held at the Chicago Theater where I graduated in June of 2001!!!! The GREAT one stood right where I received my degree from college!!!! So now two of the greatest days of my life happened in the Chicago Theater!!!!

I heard a few people after the show say that they were upset because they came to hear Purple Rain but I say to those people....rent the video! Every time I wanted to hear it that's what I did until it dawned on me to just buy the darn thing : ) I love Prince and I didn't care if he came to sing his ABC's...I went just for the experience! I love the new music and the fact that he has never been afraid of change, he has always been true to himself and if people happen to love him for it...it's that much sweeter. I love Prince for who he is....where he's been....and where he's taken me at different stages in my life....I love the songs "When U Were Mine" and "Sometimes It Snows in April" and to hear them live was amazing!

I just recently became a member of the npgmusicclub so I didn't really know to check my email the day of the show....for the soundcheck and afterparty news....I missed the one chance I had been waiting for all of my life....to say hello to Prince!...I cried for two days. I just hope that this email can get to him so that he can know that I enjoyed my first experience with him and that there are those of us that supports what he does....not only for music but for those of us that listens to the music. Next time I'll know what to expect and I believe in my heart that Saturday, March 2, 2002 won't be the last time I will get to see the Artist....and maybe even next time I will be able to go to the soundcheck and afterparty.

You will forever have a fan in me.....God Bless You.

Tawana Quarles

from sheree

...life's lessons. damn, it's good watching you evolve then take us with you.

it was great. i love the chicago theater - the ceiling murals were especially befitting such a wonderful show. the production was a funky, jazzy dance with a message (or two :-) and a prayer to then go home to digest. (or to the after party to dance.)

i am always (yet never) amazed whenever i am afforded the opportunity to see prince in concert & i am grateful that he continues to do this. i'm sure it's fun but yet a lot of work. thank you. i can say that this was the best but won't. i'll say it was one of the best because every show that i've seen since controversy (remember the bed -ha) has been great.

maceo was looking pretty dapper & sounding particularly well. the bass was tight, the drums were on (a hard working man), & who was that on the keys? he's pretty quick and very talented. ...didn't i recognize a little stevie wonder in the show? (la la la lala la la la la laalah)????

thank you too, npgmc. i can't wait to do it again.

dot9(sheree)

from Keena

My name is Keena Barnette aka Positivity2001.
I have vowed to never miss a show ever since the Emancipation tour and I am glad that I haven't. The Chicago show was off the records as one of the greatest shows I have ever seen. It was a shame that most of the people attending had no idea what a strong message that was being unveiled. I love his music because it tells a very personal story about someone so personal. I had been contemplating some questions that I had prayed on that morning and were answered at that concert. Prince is my angel and he doesn't even know it. Messages so strong that I screamed every time I could testify to what was being said. I actually cried when my favorite all time jam was played "Ana Stesia."
Being in desperate need of some through the pure enjoyment of my most celebrated artists of all time I got more than that! My questions about love, relationships and God were answered in ways I cannot explain. That kind of music makes living in this crazy mixed up world tolerable. And I was very disappointed that the crowd had not responded to Ana Stesia like they should have or to the whole concert overall. I usually get seats up front, but in the back of the theatre folks were sitting down. Not deserving to be in the presence of an artist and music so fine that I feel I should apologize for them. Not being prepared for a performance so raw that they were affixed to their seats. I felt the power and the freedom in the room that was so exhilarating and new. I also felt sorry that they couldn't enjoy the concert to the magnitude to which it actually and truly was the best concert yet.
Lastly, I am glad and most greatful to God for allowing the chance to see Prince again and to be touched by his spirit though I have never met him personally. Even if I had I wouldn't think I deserved it. I am glad to have ever graced your spirit.

from Lisa

Hello NPG!

I felt the concert at the Chicago Theatre Saturday Nite, March 2nd, 2002 was most spiritual. Praise Christ! Prince is on a mission and has a very strong message. This concert was different from past concerts, but was wonderfully filled with love. Prince continues to write, compose, produce, sing, play and speak from within his true self, from his soul. He is a true musician who does not hold back. Yes he continues to grow and change and yes, us true fams will continue to follow. We love him and his music for who he is and what he creates. No one and I mean no one plays the guitar the way our man does. He is the world's greatest. Rhonda is brilliant as well as the rest of the NPG. This group is blessed and I mean blessed. You don't find talent like this just anywhere. Prince has a lot of passion. He is driven. He is positive and you walk away feeling on top of the world. I left knowing that Christ is working through Prince to reach us and that all things are possible with Christ. Prince is right, we need to read our bibles, we need to love one another, there is no such thing as color, we are one. We need are husband's to be men of God and to teach and raise our families in the eyes of Christ. We need to encourage our children to learn to play an instrument. Where has all the real music gone? The radio stations are missing out and missing out BIG TIME. This man is music. Listen up people......listen up.. Buy "the rainbow children" by Prince and the NPG. There is a strong message here. We must surrender. It's time to rise!!

Peace and Love Forever,
Lisa

from Deb

Prince, thank you, thank you, thank you! I had tickets for both shows, so my husband suggested that I take my daughter (she's only 11!) to your show Saturday night (We had much better seats for Sunday night)! I wasn't quite sure if it would be appropriate or not, but after giving it some thought, I took her. You now have a new fan of the next generation! She loved your performance. I am so glad she had the opportunity to see REAL TALENT! Our service at church on Sunday was about choosing Faith or Fear, wish u could have been there. You've made your choice crystal clear! God Bless You and your band..... Deb

from Jill

One Nite Alone With Prince

March 2nd and 3rd, Chicago Theater

Decided to report on both shows, so I could compare notes on the similarities or differences of the shows. Both shows were approximately 2:45 min in length and came packed with a mission (ready 4 a change?)!

March 2nd, 2002
Word was sent via email, 2 NPGMC members, stating that if U had tickets for any up coming event (through March 11th) 2 appear at the venue at 5:30 p.m. At that time U were issued a laminate, if Ur name appeared on the list of current members of the NPGMC (loved the perks!!!). This laminate (which will b different 4 each show) would allowed U access 2 the soundcheck and 2 the afterparty! U would also b allowed 2 bring 1 guest with U 4 the experience!

Souncheck access was granted around 6:00 p.m. and lucky NPGMC members were not only treated 2 a soundcheck but 2 a Q&A session with Prince himself. Prince was overwhelmed with questions and concerns about the ticket scalping that goes on 4 his shows. He asked the NPGMC members just how many of them actual has been able 2 secure seats in the orchestra pit (best seats in the house) and only about six people answered ( I will spare U from my nightmare about purchasing tickets 4 the shows but give big thanks 2 the NPGMC person that answered my emails during a time of crisis). He was clearly concerned about this issue and promised 2 at least waive the entrance fee 2 the "afterparties" 4 the NPGMC member (2 sorta make-up 4 the mess.) Prince also had a question 4 the group, “should he give "Little Red Corvette" to Chevrolet for their 50th Anniversary??’ (I personally have mixed feeling about that but hey 1 must do what they feel is best in the long run). The session lasted for about 30 minutes and then folks were lead out of a side door entrance 2 wait 4 the actual concert.

Around 7:00 p.m., folks were allowed 2 enter the Theatre 4 the concert (we were glad that we didn’t have 2 wait long, this past weekend was the coldest that it’s been in Chicago all winter…I need not mention the snow). After the body check 4 cameras and recording devices U could then either purchase Tour merchandize (T-shirts, looks like T-Shirt # 1 won the most votes…, program booklet and photos and CD single of "The Work") or head 4 Ur seat. 4 those of U not living in Chicago, the Chicago Theater is one of r finer venues, It was at one time a movie theater and still has some of the original architecture, nice gold trim here and there. Perfect setting 4 what we were in store 4 from Prince and the NPG!

While waiting 4 the performance 2 start, clippets of "Xenophobia" were being played over the sound system (I can hardly wait until this album is released!). Without an official announcement, lights went dim and U could hear sounds from Maceo Parker sax filling the auditorium (from what appeared 2 b an unknown source). A spot light hit the center aisle of the mainfloor and U could then see Maceo coming 2ward the stage from the back of the theater Nice way 2 get Ur attention from the stage because I didn’t even notice when Prince and the band took the stage. Maceo’s intro lead into the title cut from the "Rainbow Children" with Prince taking over leads on guitar. The spoken words from "Rainbow Children" were now being spoken live on the mike by Prince and U knew it was on! As far as a set-list goes, I am not the 1 to remember everything but got the following from a friend:
Maceo Parker Sax Intro
The Rainbow Children
Muse 2 The Pharaoh
Xenophobia
A Case of U
Mellow
1+1+1=3
Love Rollercoaster (originally done by The Ohio’s Player)
The Other Side of the Pillow
Strange Relationship
Sing A Simple Song
La, La, La (Means I Love You)
Erykah Badu ‘s Didn't You Know (with Rhonda Smith,)
When You Were Mine
Avalanche
Family Name
Take Me With U
Raspberry Beret
Another Star
Santana Medley
------encore---------------------
Free
Starfish & Coffee
Sometimes It Snows In April
I Love U, But I Don't Trust U Anymore
How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore
Anna Stesia
Love Is God/Rise Up

Musically, this (and the second show) was one of the most powerful one’s I’ve witnessed in awhile. Prince’s vocals and guitar solos were superb. The flow of the music was continuous and almost hypnotic. I found my self, at times, so caught up in complete awe of want I was experiencing. At times I felt as if I was the only person in the place, truly "One Nite Alone" with Prince! I will b the first 2 admit that I was upset when I heard about Mr. Hayes’ departure from the band but this new band (with Rhonda Smith, Renato Neto, Greg Boyer, John Blackwell and Maceo Parker) is TIGHT!

Prince is definitely continuing his efforts 2 b more assessable (which seems 2 have started at last years Celebration). At the soundcheck, he was attentive 2 the questions and responded as much as he could.

On a serious note Prince also address the issue of racism during the show. Folks may not want 2 admit it, but racism is still alive and kickin’ in the year 2002. I know that some folks were uncomfortable but this issue cannot b left in the dark. During "Avalanche", he displayed a quotation from Abraham Lincoln that clearly shows how he (Lincoln) supported segregation. And at the start of "Family Name", Prince asked a few people in the front rows what was their names. Upon hearing them, he asked a few folks if he "could change their names 4 the nite". One man was rename "Lynch", while another person was named "Rhodes". Prince then proceeded 2 perform "Family Name" inserting "Lynch" and "Rhodes" in the appropriate spots. Symbolically, "Lynch" could represent the lynching that occurred and still occur even 2day but I won’t try 2 interrupt Prince’s meaning. I’m not in the position 2 do so but my own day 2 day experience supports the fact that racism is on a come back (or was it just in undercover 4 awhile). Enuff said!

Prince seemed very emotional at times during his performance, it was clear that he was feeling sorrow during "Anna Stesia". I was brought 2 tears. .. There are also some religious overtones but nothing over powering. He’s just spreading the "Truth"!

The show will leave folks either in a state of amazement or upset because they didn’t hear Prince perform "Purple Rain" (Prince said at the beginning of the show that if you came 2 hear "Purple Rain", "It ain’t that type of party!"). The new music is a funky combination of jazz fusion with a bit of the older songs as a chaser. We were exposed 2 a funky new rendition of "Raspberry Beret" and that was enough of the old stuff 4 me.

For those of us who want to know, Prince did not change outfits during the first performance, he wore pants with one black color leg, while the other leg red and a black, red and white top with the NPG logo across the front (in banner style). His hair as most of U know is short (sorta back 2 the JOY days), parted down the middle.

The afterparty was held at the "HardRock Café". Members of the NPGMC were able 2 enter the club first (and didn’t have 2 pay 2 get in). We were also allowed 2 bring in a guest, so we felt REAL VIPish : The party was nice, lot of Prince music (the DJ even did a battle of the bands mix , playing Prince and Michael Jackson/Jackson Five music back 2 back. Prince made a appearance a bit later, coming down from the VIP area 2 shakes hands with a few of us and waved. He didn’t stay long but it was still nice 2 know he had been around. We left the place around 4:00 a.m. and that was the end of day 1!

(Continue 2 the second show review)

from Spencer

THE SET HAT PRINCE AND THE NPG PUT ON SATURDAY WAS AMAZING, STARTING WITH THE VENUE. THE CHICAGO THEATER WAS A VERY INTIMATE SETTING TO HAVE 1NIHGT ALONE WITH PRINCE. MYSELF AND MY WIFE THOUGHLY ENJOYED EVERY SONG STARTING WITH "RAINBOW CHILDREN" GOING ALL THE WAY THROUGH 2 THE END WHERE PRINCE SNAPPED OFF N2 A ZONE WITH "ANA STESIA", AND TOOK HIS PEDAL FOR THE REMOTE CONTROL OF THE DRUM MACHINE LOOP OF "GREATEST ROMANCE" AND KEPT IT IN THE THE POCKET. I JUST WANT 2 SAY THAT ME AND CINDY THOUGHLY ENJOYED THIS SHOW AND THANKS 2 SEEING PRINCE CHANGE HIS LIFE AND STILL STAY FUNKY, LET ME KNOW THAT LOVE IS SOMETHING 2 NOT BE AFRAID OF BUT 2 CHERISH AND SPREAD 2 THOSE WHO DON'T KNOW IT.

LOVE41ANOTHER,
SPENCER

from Consciousone

I've seen Prince in concert over 50 times since 1982, and he has always been amazing. This time, Prince displayed his musicianship... you know the side people forget when you're labeled a hit maker.

I so enjoyed the jazz flavor (first cousin to the blues), and Prince's guitar and piano solos. But, I must say the new keyboardist, Renato knows how to play some jazz keys. He had me come home and dust off my Oberheim. I always get a dose of inspiration from a Prince concert.

Speaking of Renato, during the soundcheck when Prince was playing 'Willing and Able,' Renato was off key or something and Prince went over to him. He came back to the mic and shared the private joke with us. Forgive me if I miss quote this:

"I asked Renato if he knew all the songs. He said, Kinda. I said, You kinda want a paycheck."

We all laughed. During our 40-minute chat with Prince - which totally makes up for not sitting in on a discussion of "The Rainbow Children' with him at last year's celebration - we brought up the celebration. Prince said, "Yall know it has nothing to do with a birthday, right?" Being on the second row with this man staring right into my eyes, I smirked, said yeah, and looked away knowing in my heart I will celebrate the day of his birth at this year's celebration. How can I not thank the Universe for Prince's birth in this lifetime, when he is the reason I know so many people around the world.

The highlight of the show was when Prince played my favorite song off the "1999" album, 'Free.' What symbolism the lyrics of 'Free' has with this chaotic world of today.

'Annastesia' was so beautiful. I could feel the emotion of every lyric Prince sang. And my response... the energy of one's soul is enveloped in yours, never forgotten, always soothing.

My next quest is to see this tour in Europe. People that are going to this show, enjoy. Don't think the hits. Think something new. And may your weather be warmer than what we experienced in Chicago.

Universal Peace, Love and Happiness
Consciousone

from Ross

I would like 2 start by saying that I've seen my share of concerts, with 4 of them being Prince experiences. I was fortunate enough 2 attend the March 2nd show at the Chicago Theatre, considering the weather! My wife and I have attended all 4 Prince experiences together and we both agree that not only was this the best Prince show we've seen, but it is the best concert we've ever seen, period! I saw MJ pour in 55 in Game 4 of the 93 NBA Finals and we also saw MJ win his 4th NBA Championship in Game 6 of the 96 NBA Finals, and this 2002 Prince experience ranks right up there! I have never felt so musically fulfilled at any other concert I've been 2.

The NPG was smokin' and Prince didn't hold back anything, letting all of his musically genius hang out there for all to experience. This edition of the NPG with Rhonda Smith on Bass, Renato Neto on Keys, Greg Boyer on the Bone, John Blackwell on the Drums and Maceo Parker on the Sax is the tightest band Prince has had and this group compliments Prince's change of musical direction with precision. Throughout the 3 hour experience, I kept thinking 2 myself that this must have been what it was like 2 experience Sonny Rollins or Miles Davis or Charles Mingus when they were performing on stage.

The fact that Prince has altered his musical direction 2 include jazz couldn't make me happier, 4 I 2 have also altered my musical tastes to include the many facets in which Jazz has to offer. I have always liked Jazz music, but have only come to really understand and appreciate this form of music over the past few years. I only hope that Prince continues to delve into the world of Jazz for his creations, but at the same time continues to fuse various forms of music so that notions of what music should sound like and are supposed to sound like are forever obliterated.

I achieve very little if any inspiration from most of the so-called music that is being manufactured today, but Prince gives me confidence that there is still hope for the future of music. If only others would take a cue from Prince and realize that record companies, producers and money don't make music and that musicians make music, the depression that music is currently in may cease. Unlike other depressions, this one can't rely upon financial prosperity, this one must be eradicated solely from the souls of those who wish to create something more than meaningless money making crap.

Sincerely,
Ross Freier

PS.
I noticed that Prince didn't have a Trumpet player in this band. I'm available, anytime!

from therese

Hello Friend,

I went to the Chicago Sat. show, my first concert of Prince I have been to, although I can say, like so many others have said, I have been a fan for many years (please don't ask how many, only 1 birthday right)? =) I will always be a young women.

The other fans have stated so much joy in the experience so, at the risk of sounding redundant, the show was fabulous, amazing, interesting and fun. The talent of the entire ensemble left me in a temporary frozen state of wonderment on several occasions. Prince, you were great with the crowd and I was looking forward to, not only your musical genius but also the little jokes that reveal your fun sense of humor. Thank you showing that side of you. Your sincere concern for the fans is truly appreciated!

The fans I had the pleasure to talk with were very nice, as I knew they would be. The whole standing up/sitting down issue I just made me laugh. Certainly one's love of your music and devotion as a fan doesn't hinge on whether one sits or stands. The "old" music is always fun to hear. I think partly because it's such great music and partly because of the memories it brings back. The "new" music, The Rainbow Children in particular, I have no words to justify how captivating it is. The songs you chose to play that night were perfect.

The fans knowledge of seeming to know what to do and where to go to experience everything you have to offer I find mysterious. Although I'm member of NPGMC, I'm sure there's another club somewhere that hands out more info or maybe its that whole dedication thing again. =)

I found it easy to access tickets for Sat, harder for Sun. I hope the changes you're planning to weed out the middle man (ticketmaster) work out. I, unfortunately had to leave the show just before the encore so I'm hoping to get tickets for one of the shows in MO.

Basically, I honestly just wanted to say Thankyou! I believe in letting people know when they touch one's heart and leave one feeling good. Your musical talent is something I will never comprehend because it is so great. Your ability to open one's eyes to God and letting people know it's ok to be spiritual and express God's love is also a gift and it's value is inconceivable. Thank you for letting all know it is a gift we all can obtain.

peace and God bless all,

therese

from Amrik

Like so many of P's friends, I have been to as many Prince concerts as I could go to since the Purple Rain tour. It has been a true musical and spiritual journey over the years. I found Prince to be so accessible in this show. What I mean to say is, back in the day, when he played the big auditoriums and stadiums, we could barely see him much less feel the music on a spiritual level. Although absolutely grandiose, those shows from years past were like events. Attending Prince concerts now is like going to watch a friend jam at a local club. It is so easy to feel what is going on on stage. With these kinds of concerts, the jam sessions in small venues, I feel like Prince is playin' for just a handful of friends. What major recording artists do that for their friends? In that regard, he was so accessible. Prince -- thanks for being one of my best friends for so many years. Amongst all of the terrible distractions that occur in life these days, thanks for reminding us to focus on what is really important --Love is God, God is Love. It seems to take on new meaning when you sing it to us on stage.

Keep on Keepin' on

from moonbeam

Thank U 2 Prince + the TIGHT AZZ (NPG) band that jammed all Saturday night in Chicago. It was a nice jam session of less known tracks. Thank U Prince 4 interacting with the fams + fans. The interaction is cool. Eye've read some of the reports and some of the "hardcore" fam(n)s (such as myself) Eye think are trippin' a little bit 2 much on the "less familiar" fam(n)s. They might not b as familiar with the B-sides + others, but EVERYONE gave Love back 2 Prince + The NPG. That's all that matters 2 me...no need 4 drama.
Prince seemed 2 b @ peace and chill. He acknowledged that change is OK which Eye thank him 4 saying...nothin' wrong with Prince "challenging" the peeps 2 @ least open the Bible and c for them(r)selves. He made people think and that Eye thank him 4.

from Roy

Prince has created a show for us, the real fans. Unfortunately, not all at the Chicago Theatre were real fans, but we let them stay.

After listening to everything that P has ever put out, it was nice to hear many of those songs played. Previous concerts the last few years (which were great also) contained many of his Top 40 hits. These are the songs that everyone knew and it kept the show going.

This show contained the Rainbow Children album (awesome album, awesome performances) and many songs that were never played on the radio, only jammed to in our homes and cars. Songs like Strange Relationship, Starfish and Coffee, Sometimes in Snows in April, Anastesia, and many more.

I do have a minor rant. This is the second concert in 3 years where the person behind me wants me to sit down because they can't see the show. This time, the person got a security guard and I was told I would be kicked out if I didn't sit. I have one request: If you don't want to dance at a NPG show, please stay home. You want have fun.

My second note: I have heard many people say P has stopped making good music and spends all his time preaching. My reply: The music is only getting better and the message has been there all along.

Peace Out
Roy Stevenson

from Skwrl

The beginning of the show was an awesome musical experience. I love that Prince is so multi-faceted. But, the real fun starts when he gets interactive with his fams. This was one I will never forget. But, then again, how could any fam forget any of them. All I can say is: "Keep 'em comin".

from Heather

Prince put on a hell of a show. If you are a Prince fan u cannot miss this performance. He is a true musical genius. NPG played great as well. I loved to hear all the songs he played off of "The Rainbow Children." I wish he would have played a couple newer songs like "She Loves Me For Me" and "last December." However, he was still great. His message was clear love is God and God is love he inspired me so much to sit down and really appreciate life and read the bible. His performance was outstanding and I cannot wait until I see him tonight again!! I'll report back.

from Coop

What a show! This was more like a sit in to a jam session rather than a "concert". Prince and his band absolutely jammed! I only wish they would have performed more off of "The Rainbow Children". I thought for sure they would at least play most of the cd. I really wanted to hear "Everywhere", "She Loves Me 4 Me", "The Work" and "Last December" especially. Yet with those selections I didn't get to hear, the show was still awesome. They did perform songs I had not ever heard him perform live in the previous concerts I've seen him in. Joints like "Strange Relationship", "Starfish and Coffee", and "Sometimes it Snows in April". He event jammed a bit of "Rollercoaster of Love". The crowd went wild for that one. The best statement I think he made all night was when he said that us (the fans) coming out like we do helps him to know its alright to change, making reference to his ever changing styles. But what has always been appealing for me about his music is his ever changing, ever growing, style of music. He isn't afraid to be his musical self. Every now and then he has dabbed a little into what was hot on the radio, just to show us and others he can do it, but radio sucks! I'd rather listen to the real stuff! Prince is real and this tour reaffirms that. A note to Prince: Positive change my brother, it is alright to have positive change. Keep it coming! Also, I don't know what member of the band was better, the awesome drummer, the smooth keyboardist, the legendary horn section, or the sexy bassist. The band was tight!

from Old School

Great show. think it was just like an after set feel of sorts. Flowed nicely. Nice cover of Joni Mitchell's "A Case Of You" along with some Santana, Ohio Players "Love Rollercoaster", Sly's "Sing A Simple Song" and Delfonics "La La..". Old faves like "Strange Relationship", "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore?", new ones from "the Rainbow Children" LP that sounded great. No Candy Dulfer but Maceo Parker was there. Closed the 2 1/2 hour set with "Anna Stesia".

from Princespurpledove

I was at the Chicago concert last night and will be there again this evening. Prince was wonderful as always. I must say that I will always love him however he chooses to present himself but I did notice the difference in his presentation this time around. I am 34 years old now and have seen Prince perform live well over 35 times since I was an 11 year old little girl. I am a mother now to two little girls that are 7 and 9 years old. They have listened to Prince music since they were "in utero" and love him just the same as their mother does. They have wanted to go to one of the concerts for the past couple of years and I would not allow them to due to the inappropriate content. I will say however, that Prince has made a few changes this time around and I feel terrible that I did not take my little girls. It would have been a performance that they would have loved, enjoyed and learned a great lesson from. My thought here is that you will start to see Prince fans from the ages of 10 year old little children that would love to emulate him, to those of us that are well into our 30's and 40's. Prince continues to set a wonderful example for those all around him that I am sure he doesn't even realize he has an impact on!
See you again tonight! Can you please sing ADORE as I have never heard it live from you!

from JoVon Angel

How is eVery one...its been sometime since eye last posted something...well

This is my Xeperience with The One Night Alone in Chicago eye was @ The Chicago Theater 4:45pm line up was in effect already since it was kind of messy weather we all huddled inside the foyer waiting for the doors 2 b open There eye could see the one night alone t-shirts & Tour book. there were other things 2 buy but all stemming from the rainbow children.

After over a half hour of chatting with other fans & friends it was announced that prince & the NPG was running a little behind coming from the last concert in Michigan so The Sound Check will start Promptly at 6:00pm once u were in no going in & out this was announced very clearly. well 6:00pm came around in no time we were let in a instructed 2 have I.D ready 2 receive The laminates once your name was cleared on the list. this list had all the members of the npgmc & if u were on it u received a pass that will allow u a spot at the sound checks...

My spot was 3rd row 2 witness the sound check The Groves he was working on were not performed during the "real show" But DONT GET ME WRONG This SHOW Was THE BEST SHOW I HAVE SEEN IN SOME TIME !!! but eye will let some one else tell that one...complete set list but eye really was moved 2 write this report 4 this reason alone: Prince had mention That we (the fans) give ticket master the power by giving our dollars 2 see shows he said WE give them the power so eye said very loudly "but U Keep Doing Business with Them" he stopped what he was doing & came down from the stage right in the orchestra pit & me being in the 3 row eye was pretty close 2 him ..well some of the members expressed the issue about the tickets & where we were seated...prince asked us were people were seated...& we told him that all the club members are in the rows starting @ 13 & over this means in the back...Prince said really ? that’s not right ...eye also explained how the club members never had a chance 2 get tix 4 the 2nd show the the public got first dibs ..he was shocked & very Upset @ this news so he sad we have 2 fix this problem.... (well 2 make a long story short cuz eye am very tired) he is planning 2 have the members 2 have first dibs on all ticks via a will call system & ur name has 2 b on a list & u must have ID!!!

ok The After Party was @ The Hard Rock Cafe in Down town Chicago members got in free the guest has 2 pay a $15 cover charge he did not play just came out 2 make a appearance the place was packed & going crazy !!! eye had a blast The Concert was the best & eye notice when he played the real fans were standing the whole time...a lot of people sat most of the time... They had no clue about the new songs he was playing like the rainbow children he played almost the whole CD plus some other funky tunes U could really tell just how out of the loop the Commercial fans are LOL

well this is my abstract report just wanted 2 get in my 2cents while it was fresh...Peace 2 my Chicago Nation & my NEW Click...we will b @ the 2nd show & u will hear from me again...one

Ps : Thank U so Much Prince & every one in ur crew

-- JoVon Angel

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