Detroit, MI on March 6 (23 reports)

from mlj

i really enjoyed the concert in detroit. prince has really made a change in his music.i loved the way his music makes u feel it makes u think and feels sooo good. prince if u happen to read this i feel that u have a higher calling i sat there and listen to u when u were doing ur last number and god was moving u 2 move us.keep spreading gods love it is what keeps us his love. thank u for ur music. peace and love

from Curtis

One word to describe the music and the total experience "INSPIRATIONAL." The soundcheck and concert in Detroit were excellent. At the beginning of the soundcheck he walked by and looked at me and said "nice suit". After saying "Thanks" (although I don't think he heard me) I turned to my wife and said "we can go home now." I bought that suit JUST for the purpose of being noticed by Prince at one of his concerts. (Yellow is the first color that the human eyes see). During the soundcheck he almost let me come up on stage and sing "Adore" but time had run out. Then on top of all that when he singled me out during the concert and called me "Morris Day" I was....words cannot describe.

I can only speak for myself but it seems that every album/CD that Prince has created has had at least one song that has fit into my life perfectly on a deeply personal level and I hope the music keeps coming. I will be on a natural "High" for a very long time from this experience. PLEASE keep letting the members into the soundchecks. The personal contact is TRULY unforgettable.

FYI...RED is the second color that the human eyes see so next time you come to town this "Morris Day" will be in a bright red suit!!!

Peace!!

Friend

Curtis

from Tracy

March 6th 2002 in Detroit Mich. At the detroit Opera House Prince rocked the house.

Picture yourself in Prince's livingroom as he jams with his friends and you are one of them. This show was different from any show Prince has every performed in the detroit area coming from someone who has been there from the begining. 2 know where i'm going with this you have 2 know where i've been. i remember when Prince opened 4 Rick James at the Cobo Arena in the spring/summer of 1979 billed as the Prince versus the king of punk funk. Although i have much love 4 Rick James i don't have 2 tell you who won that battle. On that tour Prince changed music 4 ever and his performance at the Opera House simply stated... get ready i'm about 2 take u where no other artist has taken u before.

Back in the day Prince freaked us, funked us, and provided the party music and the atmosphere 4 us 2 have the time of our lives. Race was not an issue. Gender was not an issue. Sexual preferences was not an issue. It was wild, it was fun, it was unforgettable and it was then. As he says during his show it's not 1984, furthe more it's not 1978. it's not about being Soft and Wet because u won't hear it at this show. It's not about meeting Darling Nikki although she was in the crowd. Prince freaked us long and hard enough and if you still want 2 be freaked then buy old video or an old cd at the show next 2 the t-shirts.

Prince is not an 18 kid anymore he is a 40 something year old man. He has been around the world more time than many of us have been around our own state. Don't get me wrong Prince will still rock us but he has realized he has a purpose 2 fulfill. The rainbow children is a reality. If you don't have the CD go buy it 2 day. Prince is taking us on another journey because he knows the truth and the must be told and this my be the only way you will accept it. Simply put sex is a reality but it's not about sex anymore. its about exposing the truth 2 all the people who have follow him this far, still having a good time in the process.

In closing if the "One night Alone" tour comes 2 your city don't miss it because your " Last December" my come tomorrow.

Thank u 4 a wonderful experience Prince i just hope i can catch the sound check next time.

Much Love, Tracy

from Rhonda

Dearest Prince,
You are absolutely amazing! The sound check was INCREDIBLE, too bad that we arrived late and just caught the tail end of Paisley Park, even though, we were fortunate enough to have made it at. Your personal appearance was overwhelming almost to the point of cardiac arrest. During your performance I was completely calm when you called me to the stage and asked me a question. I am positively a leader and a follower of spiritually and love 4 one another. I was mused by your choice of words at the end of Anna Stesia, we shouldn't be separated by race or religion, instead come 2gether as 1 with love. LOVE IS GOD, GOD IS LOVE. Thank you for my One Nite Alone with you.

With light and love,
Rhonda (Pink Cashmere)

from TRACI LEE-BROWN

I AM WRITING TO POST MY REACTIONS FROM THE SHOW AT THE OPERA HOUSE, AND ACTUALLY POSTING TO RESPOND TO ONE OF THE POSTINGS REGARDING THE SHOW AND THE SOUND CHECK.

FIRST OF ALL, THE SHOW WAS A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE FOR ME, AND GAVE ME A CHANCE TO RELIVE SOME MEMORIES AND CREATE SOME NEW EXPERIENCES. I THANK PRINCE FOR THE HUG AND KISS THAT HE ALLOWED ME TO HAVE AND WHAT A PLATEAU THAT WAS FOR ME AS A PRINCE FAN.

ONE OF THE POSTINGS STATED THAT WHEN I MADE THE STATEMENT "I LOVE YOU AS CHRIST LOVED THE CHURCH" (EPHESIANS 5:25) WAS OBVIOUSLY NOT UNDERSTOOD OR TAKEN OUT OF CONTEXT. THE LOVE THAT CHRIST HAS FOR US, THE "CHURCH", IS FULL, UNCONDITIONAL AND A COMMITMENT TO US. PRINCE, I MADE THAT STATEMENT SO THAT YOU KNOW I WAS NOT MEANT TO BE INTIMIDATING OR MEANING ANY HARM, AND THAT THE HUG WAS THAT OUT OF BROTHERLY LOVE AND APPRECIATION. I HAVE BEEN IN THE SERVICE MINISTRY OF MY CHURCH FOR THE LAST YEAR PLUS, AND ONLY HAVE THE UTMOST DESIRE AND HUNGER FOR THE INSPIRED WORD OF GOD. I AGREE THAT WE NEED TO BE BOLD FOR JESUS IN WITNESSING TO AND SAVING SOULS. I'M NOT SURE IF SHE 'GETS IT', BUT THE SUBJECT IS SOMETHNG I DON'T PLAY WITH. GOD HAS GIVEN ME THE BOLDNESS, AND I EVEN TALKED WITH THE YOUNG LADY WITH THE TATOO BEFORE THE CONCERT ABOUT SCRIPTURES AND MAKING THE DECISION TO BE SAVED. I SHARED ROMANS 10:9-10 WITH HER AND SOME OTHERS. THERE I WAS WITNESSING AT A PRINCE CONCERT!

PRINCE IF YOU READ THIS, I INVITE YOU TO A CONVERSATION ABOUT WHAT JESUS HAS DONE IN YOUR LIFE, AND SHARE WHAT HE HAS DONE IN MINE. THERE WERE TWO NIGHTS IN 2001, WHEN GOD PUT YOU ON MY HEART, AND I WOKE UP SENSING YOU WERE NOT OKAY (POSSIBLY AN ILLNESS OR VIRUS) AND MY SPIRIT WASN'T SITTING RIGHT, AND I JUST STARTING PRAYING THAT YOU WERE REALLY ALRIGHT. THE NIGHT OF THE 'HIT AND RUN TOUR' AT THE STATE THEATER IN DETROIT, I SAT IN MY CHAIR AND PRAYED MOST OF THE CONCERT, FOR YOUR HOME, YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR HAPPINESS.

I AM INDEED A VERY SPIRITUAL PERSON, AND AS YOU, DESIRE THAT SOULS BE SAVED, NOT THAT WE WIN MEMBERS TO A CONGREGATION, BUT THAT WE OBEY AS IT SAYS IN MATTHEW 28:19-20. I WISH YOU THE BEST IN YOUR LIFE ALWAYS, AND HOPE THAT OUR FIRST MEETING ENCOUNTER WAS NOT THE LAST. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE A FAN AND FRIEND IN ME IN DETROIT, AND WHO KNOWS, YOU MAY NEED TO CALL ON ME AND I WILL BE MORE THAN WILLING TO ANSWER.

TRACI LEE-BROWN

from Carrie

I just wanted to tell everyone that you put on a wonderful performance last night. My daughter cried when Prince first came on stage. She was so excited. The variety of music was great and I could have sat there all night listening to everyone. I am taking my friend Monday night to your show in Indianapolis and I can't wait. We saw Prince in concert last year in Wisconsin and we had a really good time there. Prince is incredible and I will always remain a true fan of his. Thank you for the wonderful time and I will see you guys on Monday. Good luck with your next show!

Love always,
Carrie Fox

from YKAMETHYST

Prince Wow! You are definitely like wine. "Aged to Perfection, better with time." Although you're not aged yet your are a musical genius. I enjoyed the personal sound check and the show was awesome. I love jazz and I really love your music. I visualized this show years ago. I believe you truly realize your purpose. You can't began to know the blessing GOD has for you. I was a little upset to hear the woman say "she loves you like GOD loves the church." Let's hope she gets it right before the church goes up. I missed the tattoo woman, but I love your boldness to teach JESUS. I am very much where you are. I am aiding in saving souls every day. It's funny now, but I asked JESUS to make a way for me to continue supporting your music without being fanatical or without dissapointing him. I missed getting prime seats during the presale, due to my late bible study the night before. I usually get very upset (sick) when I don't get good seats or no seats, but this time it didn't faze me. I am getting an understanding, that's how I know JESUS was testing me. I passed! Saturday, I went on the internet and purchased the tickets GOD wanted me to have. "Hey! mainfloor row T (not so bad) ."

People remember the LORD looks on the heart and he wants all the GLORY! Prince keep witnessing in your music, from your heart within your soul.

All my LOVE 2 JESUS
YKAMETHYST

from Tor'e

ANewPowerDetroit- Prince Review!

Prince Prince Prince!!!! What Can We Say iN ANewPowerDetroit!? Prince Is Amazing, Undeniably Incredible On Stage and Thats Just the Tip of the Iceberg!

Prince Played the Original Setlist as stated manytimes on .org and beyond. Sound Check... was Awesome, Prince Played "Paisley Park" for The NPGMC-Detroit V.I.P. Famz, he answered our questions about The Truth and The New Music he's planning to add on the Set and some old rare favorites...
We Sang along to "Paisley Park"- helping The Artist Out on Backing vocals... Prince even came down and shook hands aswell as gave a few hugs.

He even mentions he's Married.
He appeared in good spirits- joking w/ rhonda and renato. He shared a few scriptures w/ those who were interested... calling a young woman on stage and opening the bible and telling her to read a certain verse- to answer her question! Later she was asked to come onstage and relax and enjoy the show!
Wow Prince , Thank you for such a humbling experience...
The Show Opened on Time 8pm sharp as Maceo makes his way to the stage from the lobby blowing away at the sax to The title track "TRC"... Prince told the Crowd at the Detroit Opera House...Tonight If you come to bask in the Purple Rain, forget it!
The forcast will be Bright! He also stated that he wasn't coming for a KISS! - referring to the Classic Hit of 1986! "This is 2002, Not 1984" -he laughed! Prince Played Beautifially w/ the NPG! From Start to Finish... "A Case of U" and "Muse" was nothing but CRAZY! This Brotha Sangs w/ Heartfelt Devotion for the New Power Soul... "One Nite Alone" was Performed- segue into "I Love you but I don't trust U" to "Somethimes it Snows in April" and the Crowd goes NUTS!

TRC Opener was Wild! The Bob George Vocals were good for the Concert... and it was the Sweetest Kick Off Track!
The Show went on for 2.5 hours and Soon Came The After Party, Shouts to Everyone from all over who came to Detroit for the Concert, Even Famz from Chicago were in the House...PPL who had no Tix and Knew the Show was a Complete Sell Out! was trying to get in! The Afterparty was packed to capacity and the DJ "Dudley D" who spinz at Paisley was Crankin Up the Phatest PRINCE Joints all night, from "Rave In2 The Joy Fantastic" to "Let's Work!"- After party ended around 2:50am

Shouts 2 Sam Of The Chi-Nation Parties at Berlin EveryMonth for The Npg Music Club! For all those Locals iN ANewPowerDetroit who can't make it to Chicago every last Sunday of the Month to get your Prince Fix!
No Need 2 Worry!
NewPowerDetroit will host The Launch Party for NPGMC-Detroit iN Ferndale @ Club Cobalt. Starting April 12th and afterwards its Every 3rd Friday!

Prince Thanks for Giving DETROIT The GREATEST PERFORMANCE EVER ON 3/6/02!!!! @ The Opera House!

NewPowerDetroit Is Willing 2 Do The Work 2 Get The NPGMC Out 2 The Metro Area! Can't waite until u return!

Rating: 10

Peace and Not2War
Tor'e
NPD-Co/founder

from Roosevelt

two words.......THE MUSIC
It was all I expected and more. For a couple years now I have went to several performanceds and enjoyed every last one; but each one included most of his hits and not the new music the fam has been listening too; well last night was not the case. It was truly about THE MUSIC. THANK YOU!!! MR. ROGERS THANK YOU!!! for making, playing & sharing THE MUSIC with your FAM & those who didn't know.

P.S. my highlight was when he said " if you can to hear Purple Rain it ain't that type of party"

Peace and Love to all The Rainbow Children...Rise Up Roosevelt ( Detroit, MI )

from Erins319

Prince and crew, THANK YOU!

The setting, the sound, the mood, it was all PERFECT!! I love all the little changes that were made with some of the songs. Many suprises ..I absolutely loved hearing 'The Rainbow Children' live, it was sooo much fun. And Prince, thank you so much for an astonishing encore. You played some of my faves I didn't expect, those songs mean so much to me! Thanks for being so inspiring, musically and spiritually. Everytime I go to your shows I get butterflies before I see you, and when its over I don't want to leave! Thank you for the long performance. :)

The afterparty was a lot of fun! We missed you all there. Hopefully next time it will work out better. The club was small and more crowded than I expected. Great DJ there too!

Come back to Detroit soon!

xoxo Erins319

from Jedi

Let the Rainbow Children Rise.......What a night...... As I found my seat (6th row), I looked at my wife and said "this is going to be special". I have wanted up close and personal tickets since I was 15 going to see Prince at the JLA in 1984....The night was better than anything I expected and I expected ALOT
The show was Magic...what can I say that hasn't been said. the band, the music, the message....incredible....
Prince, thank you..... thank you for your part in helping me to find Christ back in 1989....I was a lonely kid and found a friend in you.So when I heard songs like "The Ladder, The Cross and Anna Steisa" it made me curious.. It made me say " If Prince is looking to a higher power..maybe I should too."
You were a piece to the puzzle of Jesus finding me and I will never forget that.... Believe me.... He has done a mighty work in me....but he used you to wake me up to a better life...God Bless you and thank you....
Keep the message alive... I saw hungry eyes in that crowd... I saw hearts that needed to hear the message...God Bless you for that.
The show was wonderful....I could listen to Prince sit at that piano and just play through the years for hours and hours....
the play list is nice... I love that some of the Prince gold nuggets are brought out to play as in..."How come you don't call me anymore?, anything from Under the Cherry Moon, and Adore ..... are you sure you didn't find my favorite songs list and just play from it caus you hit most of em...
I've typed too much but not enough
-Jedi

from Lady

Hello Prince

Last nite show was truly amazing for me and my guest. The Detroit Opera House was pack and mostly everyone in attendance felt the vibe that was happening. The smaller and intimate venue is so much more personal and it was very enjoyable than to fight with thousands of other fans. Some comments were made that Prince was lacking something. I think the something they were looking for was done over twenty years ago. If you are among those that wanted him the way he was back in the day, then this is not the concert for you. We all mature as time go on and we have to move forward in all our lives and leave the pass behind. Like Prince said this is not the Purple Rain Party of 1984 and we are living in the year of 2002.

I just want to tell you that you are the utimate performer, showman, musician and all around entertainer. I have been a fan since I first saw u on the on the Midnight Special hosted by Wolfman Jack and I have been a fan eversince and I always will be.

The soundcheck and rehearsal was truly an exciting moment for all of the Detroit NPG members to be so close and personal with you. The interaction of the members and you was great. Tell the security guards to try to relax, they were to nervous and you were okay being with the members. My guest was truly excited from the top of her head to the bottom of her feet. We're hoping you will schedule another show for Detroit before your tour is over. Detroit will always have a lot of love for you and I think we prove that last nite. We can hang with you until the sun come up and we still would want more, more and more. So many songs and so little time. Those airbrush painting of you on those leather jackets and coats were fabulous.

Peace(Much love to Prince and all of you)

from Glenn

I'll start with the soundcheck: It was one hour in my life that I'll never forget. It was something I never thought I would be able experience. I'd say that between 100 and 150 NPGMC members and guests were on hand. As we entered, the band was on stage, going through some of the music. Microphone levels were being checked, and we could hear Prince's distinctive voice making recommendations like "That sounds too flat. Bring that mic up a little bit..." Finally someone yelled out, "Prince! Where are you?" Prince answered: "I'm right behind you." We all spun around to see where he was. We looked up in the balcony, scoped out the sound booth. No sign of him. Then the spot light hit him. He had been sitting about ten rows behind everyone, in the dark, dressed in black, kicking back in one of the theatre seats, feet up and looking completely relaxed. Once spotted, he simply walked up the aisle, right through the crowd, and took the stage. "Nice suit," he said with a point to a guy dressed in a yellow suit. Later, during the show, Prince found him in the front row, and paused the show. When the spotlight hit him, Prince announced: "Morris Day in the house y'all!" It was hilarious.

Prince picked up the symbol guitar, and treated the soundcheck crowd to a psychedelic version of Paisley Park--simply the best version of that song I've ever heard. We all stood there, everyone of us feeling incredibly blessed to be there. Now to the show.....

I don't think I'll ever see a show any better than this one! This was a show that was ultra-tight, yet also managed to be a spontaneous of-the-moment celebration. Prince and the NPG's musicianship was nothing short of phenomenal! This wasn't music. It was MUSIC! A powerful mix of jazz, rock, and funk that was at once challenging to the ear, yet completely accessible to the soul. It took the new sound that The Rainbow Children displays, and cranked it up several notches. It was sinewy, taut, powerful. Because of the music and the message, God was in the room that night.

The Detroit crowd was primed and ready for something different, something special, and something new. I don't think anyone here was looking for a greatest hits show. So when Prince stressed that is wasn't 1984 anymore, that it is 2002 and time for something more, the room's anticipation for what was in store only grew more. Prince seemed delighted as the crowd sang along to everything old and new, even managing to be in key. Audience participation was part of the show throughout. People were brought on stage to dance, and even sing throughout the show, and Prince was amused by those who took full advantage of their stage time, often busting out in laughter. It was as relaxed and free as I've ever seen The Man. Though you wouldn't sense it by the musical perfection, it was as if there was nothing scripted or formulaic about the course of the evening. Prince flowed between the keyboards and guitar throughout the night. It was seamless music, from start to finish, for a full-throttle two-and-a-half hours! Songs were performed in their entirety, with that special flair that only Prince manages to bring to the live tunes. The night was an unhurried live exploration of Prince's most meaningful songs.

I've listened to Prince music every day of my life for the last 18 years, but I've never experienced like I did on March 6, 2002. As much as Prince's music has been a part of my life all these years, tonight, I felt like I was part of the music. I want to thank Prince from the bottom of my heart for the gracious access he provided to his most loyal "friends".

Sincerely,
Glenn Paulina

from Starchild

Thank u PRINCE and the baddest band ever NPG 4 my one nite with u in ur 2nd home. Words can never describe the energy that flowed through my spirit as u began 2 play, uplift and inspire the hearts and minds of so many people who truly have an unconditional love 4 u and quality music. The things that u spoke of really touched me in a space that hasn't been touched for quite some time. Did u hear or feel my shout out "I love u"? PRINCE, I've been with u since the beginning. I've watched u evolve into this beautiful being right before my very eyes. I'm so proud of u and the road that you've chosen. Continue 2 create ur works of art. There are so many of us hungry 4 real music! ur music! Artists like u are so very rare. Just know that u are loved, respected and very much appreciated. Please come again THIS YEAR. u know Detroit's got mad love 4 u. Spoil us just a little and come again THIS YEAR 2 ur 2nd home. Detroit!
I meditated on ur closing remarks about loving one another and GOD. Thank u 4 that! And thanks for being such a positive influence. Not only 2 me but also 2 those who are searching 4 truth. Stay beautiful!

from P-Dubb

"Real Music, for Real Music Fans"
And we were ready for it.

I'm paraphrasing the quote here, but that was the jist of Prince's quote somewhere during his two and a half hour set performed to a wildly appricative audience at the Detroit Opera House Wednesday night. A set that did, as reported, lean on the jazz feel songs from the Rainbow Children album that was showcased in the set, but did not get close to removing Prince, at least musically and stylisticlly, from Prince. At least in concert, and not as much as it seems to have been spoken about recently.

It also seems the addition of Najee and the jazzy breaks and extentions from the last tours could have been a live precursor to weaning his live audience to his new musical direction. Or did the tour hatch the Rainbow Children?

The Rainbow Children proves his versitality as a musican, but his real fans and music people knew, from his release of the two Madhouse albums (not to ASSUME that he wrote any of the music) and other recordings, that a move to a jazz sound was not a real leap for him. At least that's what I thought. And judging by the reaction of the audience at the Opera House it seems that his fans were ready for the change and loved it.

I'm really still waiting for him to make a further leap farther into jazz. If it's true he jammed with Roy Hardgrove in Montreal, that's what I'm talking about.

Moreover than the show, the experience afforded members of the music club, who were allowed access to the soundcheck, is unparelled in music history.

No artist of his caliber has given regular access to such a usually private process. And Prince's sense of humor, casual attitude, attention to his fans questions and interjections during the soundcheck revealed a artist secure in himself and his work, eons beyond seasoned, well removed from any media concoceted view that his fans and others may have of him, and trancended from the usual rock star status.

At least that's what it seemed like by how he acted at the soundcheck.

Soundcheck.

About 200 people showed for a check that probably started about 5:40, maybe earlier, with Prince sitting crouched way down in a seat in the dark in the middle of the house with a mike, completeling baffling the small crowd as to his whereabouts and giving stage instructions like "Rhonda, play that last line", and "let me hear your fuzz (pedal)", or telling the keyboard player to teach "our associates", aka saxaphonist Maceo Parker trombone player Greg Boyer (former P-Funk, I think, I could be wrong) a horn line, and then actually singing out the horn line so they could pick it up, which they quickly did. TO THIS DAY, THE PRICE OF THE MUSIC CLUB, AND ALL OTHER COST AND STUFF ASSOCIATED WITH THE CLUB IS NOW PAID FOR 1000 TIMES OVER AFTER ACTUALLY WITNESSING PRINCE TEACH MACEO A HORN LINE FOR A SONG. I'm still tripping that I was actually afforded the opportunity to witness a moment like that. Prince then lavished massive praise on Maceo, saying that when he usually goes to concerts he just wants to watch, but when he saw Maceo's show he was wishing Maceo would call him up onstage to play.

A member of the audience then asked Prince to come down and show himself to us, which he did. He was wearing what I think would be Prince casual wear, black pants and a v-neck sweater topped with a black stocking cap.

Prince cracked jokes. When the keyboard player seemed to tell Prince that he was having trouble seeing him because of where Rhonda was set up at he joked, "Then just push her out the way". He also cracked on a fam named Rico, who was throwing himself onstage, dancing and decked out in a bright red fedora and sporting a denim jacket adorned with his own air brushed drawing of the new promotional picture of Prince by saying, "Hey, who's that brother all drunk in the front row". Prince then asked Rico for one of the jackets that Rico and several other audience members were wearing. They had full length pictures of Prince on the back that Rico air-brushed. Prince then invited Rico to sing "Adore", which Rico botched up, prompting Prince's guitar technician to take a dust mop and mop Rico off the stage a la Sand Man Simms of the Apollo Theater fame. The act sent dust settling all over the NPG"s gear, without drawing more than a mention from Prince about the dust even though he could not have been too happy about dust getting into the digital equipment on stage.

Prince also got religious on a woman in the audience when she told him that she had a tatoo of him on her body. Prince, while behind the keyboards, told someone to get him a bible and had the woman come up onstage as he showed her a verse condemming the practice.

The band played a new song, the one with the horn line that Prince was teaching Greg and Maceo, (and since I have a download version of Rainbow Children I don't know the song names) and then did a full version of "Paisley Park", which I think was the first time it's been played in the tour.

Prince also opened up the floor to questions, with one music club member asking how many songs were rehearsed for the tour outside of the ones already played, and he responded "12". He invited a child onstage during the show who was holding what looked like a NPG flashlight that she made herself. He then asked if the band was cool with the soundcheck, and exited to the shouts of music club members giving their well wishes, thanking him for playing for us and letting us into soundcheck and still asking questions.

After the check I talked to John Blackwell, who I always try to yell at at the shows or afterparties, and always has time to talk to a fake drummer like myself. (I play drums, but I'm not a drummer, there is a big difference) I was still fired up after finding out that one of the best drummers in the world, Dennis Chambers of P-Funk fame, is touring with Carlos Santana this year. Of course he already knew, but I went up to him asking if he knew like I was the ultimate vessle of drum knowledge. Of course he knew (Chambers had already told him) so I apologized and told him I was still tripping after finding out and just wanted to tell him. We both shook our heads and tripped on the prospect of seeing the two virtuoso musicians perform together. He then went and talked to soundcheck audience members and passed out drum sticks.

We were escorted from the venue around 6:45. A long time to talk to your teenage hero AND ACTUALLY WATCH THE CAT WORK. I'M STILL TRIPPING HARD. THE PRICE OF THE MUSIC CLUB WAS WORTH THE ONE SOUNDCHECK.

The Show.

Started at 8:05 with Maceo, who, while headed to the bathroom, I found sitting with his horn in the back of the audience waiting to make his cue. I quickly introduced myself and told him I caught his last set at the Majestic theater, and told him to thank his drummer for giving me a pair of his sticks at the show. Maceo walked down through the audience while playing, then walked on stage, where they opened with The Rainbow Children, and proceded to work their way through tight versions of the songs on TRC. And unlike some of the Celebration shows there were no mistakes musically or truncated medleys. The stage was not as bare as Hit and Run and the Celebration shows. A screen as a backdrop and on the sides of the stage showed videos of automobile traffic and lava lamp type graphics, as two water lamps, one about six feet tall, rested on both sides of the stage. Each member of the band, including Prince's roadie, were decked out in suits. (Execpt Rhonda). A Merdeces Benz grill fronted Prince's keyboard bank (I"m sure the local DCrysler folks loved that) while the keyboard player's instruments were adorned with a Lexus grill. A classy look. So the idea about a stripped down stage was actually a misnomer, since this stage set had more props than Hit and run and Celebration combined.

The TRC set was tight, and seemed a natural progression from the Najee, jazz break filled Hit and Run shows. John Blackwell, while physically prominate with two solos and sitting center stage, did not play the role of musical anchor in this set as he did on the hit and run shows. Perhaps his stripped down kit with just one rack tom tom drum highlighted his slightly toned down musical presence. Gone were many of the multi-drum fills that loaded his previous tours with Prince. The job of musical anchor was left to Rhonda Smith, who's bass layed the foundation, musically, for the six piece group. It was her house. Sonically, she laid down a bottom that resonated through the floorboards of the opera house, and was reminicent of the type of sound that Fernando Saunders would lay down. They should now check the hall for structural damage. (I know I've used that line before)

Outside of the Rainbow Children set, (which incorporated covers "Rollercoaster" by the Ohio Players, "Sing a Simple Song" by Sly and "LaLaLaLs Means I love you", as well as Strange Relationship) the rest of the set was basically classic Prince. With the exception of "Girls and Boys" (which was a encore), much of the old material was taken from sets from the celebration (i guess this is the right name, anyway I mean last Summer's four shows in Columbus, Omaha, Detroit and Milwaukee.) and hit and run shows. Rasberry Beret was the biggest and only hit of the night, led in by "Take Me With You". He ended the regular set with the Santana Suite. But the ultimate show stopper was the encores of "How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore" which was a staple and show stopper during the 1999 and Purple Rain shows, and "Girls and Boys". "HCUDCMA" gave the new fams a taste of the old school music that made people fall in love with his live shows. He encored those two after a piano medly opened the encores. The medly included Starfish and Coffee, Free, Sometimes it Snows in April, and Nothing Compares to U, among others.

Prince was as loose on stage as ever. Inviting dancers up who answered the question "Are you a follower or leader". The followers of Christ went on stage. He invited one female fan up who followed him around the stage, with Prince playfully yelling "Security" when she wouldn't stop. He also invited a opera singer on stage, who he playfully told to get off after she sang a few notes, "You ain't stealing my show up in here, I'll have to get off stage and start watching you." He also passed out rhythym instruments to people in the front few rows to get the crowd into the musical act.

There seemed no hint of controversy over the Abraham Lincoln quote, which also shows up in the tour book. And Prince did change the name of several audience members, black and white, which was quite obviously Prince's way of dramatizing how slaves had their named changed by their masters. He did it as a into to the song "Family Name". The fact that some people were disturbed by this says alot about the state of race relations in this country. Why should a actual quote by Lincoln make someone so defensive?

Commentary.

I have not seen the first four shows on the tour, but I doubt the audiences at the shows responded as well to the new music as the Detroit crowed did. Is it possible that the Detroit show was the band hitting it's stride? I'd like to think that, according to the reports I have read.

A great beauty of the show was once again watching as Prince showcased a entire album's worth of material, as he did after releasing most of his early albums then hitting the road. I would of loved to see him showcase "Emancipation" but o well. As stated in my hit and run reports I will not again say anything about a artist direction, just check it out. That is what artist do. So you also have to let a artist say what they feel also. Prince once again says things in his work in these shows that has already started a dialog on race. Physically he does not get into the multi-pirouetts or splits a-la James Brown but does do some quick,stylish moves and during HCUDCM you actually saw a hint of the old sexuallity from back in the day. But don't worry, outside of some of the jazzier material from TRC it's still Prince as Prince, with just some of the older raunchier Prince in the mothballs. Musically it was apparent, at least in Detroit, that his old rumpshaking audience is well prepared and even ready for the new, New Power Generation. A older audience whose musical taste have matured just as Prince's has. I guess this fan, who saw Prince for the first time during the Controversy Tour at the Arie Crown Theater at McCormick Place in Chicago on Dec. 11, 1981 at the 7:30 show (yes folks, there was once a day when even Prince played two shows a night, one at 7:30, one at 10:30,) with the Time opening. My live Prince experience came full fold Wednesday night when Prince quoted a line from "Sexuality" from Controversy, which was his opening song back in 1981 in Chicago. "Reproduction of the New Breed Leaders Stand Up, Organize." And to this day I don't know if it's Reproduction or reprocussions, but regardless, it felt full circle.

I can now think about taking my Father, a jazz purist or my daughter, who is 2 and a half, to a Prince concert. I still have to wait for Prince to make more of a move towards jazz before I bring Dad, who still won't get Rasberry Beret, but cannot wait to take my Daughter as soon as I can.

As a music lover this is what I have been waiting for, Prince to make a serious move towards the more intricate musical form of jazz. Ever since I heard Madhouse I've been itchiing for it and now that itch has nearly been scratched. Listening to TRC being showcased before a appriciative and obviously musically sophisticated audience has to make Prince know he has made a good move.

And as he said, it's Real Music for Real Music lovers. Prince is challenging his dance oriented audience (and the disco 80's throwback crowd is always present at the shows, this time you could see them sulking during the TRC set) to come on a musical journey with him and open their musical minds. Musically it was more reminicent to Return to Forever fusion than the Miles fusion, but regardless, as long as Prince can meld his old and new to expand but let folks know that he is still Prince, I'll still come to check it out. Although I will really push for Prince to do a po folks show since those $125 ticket prices do hit a brother. I know he has a business to run, but just one show that's all. Remember when Dr. King wanted to do the poor peoples march? How about a po-folks concert? During the show he did ask us to give of ourselves to the less fortunate, and at $125 a tix he knew we had it to give, so I guess I'm saying that there are people out there not as fortunate as me and us who would love to check this out.

The showcasing of The Rainbow Children played live, with the best bits of the last two tours pulled together by Prince, who led a band anchored by Rhonda Smith and featuring Maceo Parker, is someting not to be missed. Once again he has made his set a historical one.

time to end this tome.

P-Dubb, once again in Detroit.

from Ricco

Where to began, these sound checks are the best, Sir U just don't know what you are doing for your NPG Music family, maybe U do. I am a Thirty six year old male I have been painting your picture on the back of these jackets since I was 15 years old U say I owe U, yes I owe U my life, my Mother died in 83'' I was only 16 she was all I had then your music helped me thru' that time in my life, U are the reason GOD is in my life, U are an Angle of GOD when U sit down and talked to us about the Bible that was amazing, And I'm so sorry about the cruise word when the little girl was there U got me in check (LOL) thank U. I'm gonna try to go to the show in Indianapolis to hand deliver you your Jacket, great Concert as usual Muse 2 the Pharaoh, Strange Relationship, When U were mine, A Case of you, beautiful stuff man I love U - Thank U so much, all of the NPG Music Club members that have yet to see the show make sure U are their for the sound checks U will not regret it and the band they sound OK (U know I'm just kidding this is the best band he's had) it outta be a law they shouldn't do them instruments like that, keep up the good work guys..........Prince I thank GOD for putting your music in my life.

Yo' boy, the one that wreaked the celebration last year (LOL) RICCO

from Ganun

Thank you for doing the work Prince! I was at the Detroit Opera House last night and I can't stop dancing! This show accomplished so many important things, right before my eyes, that I never thought I would see. We came together People. I can't not justly describe what it felt like to be with all of you, on stage and off, Loving the music, Loving God and Loving one another. Prince reminded us of what we need to take out of concert and on to the streets and into our homes. Follow the Leader, Love all of the Children - give them respect and protect them, and I said Love one another! The left side of the House (Stage Right) rose up, we never took our seats Prince. I just have to thank you for helping us be in 2002 together. One God.

from Mica

I had 2 let it be known what a GREAT PERFORMER Prince is. I had an opportunity 2 go 2 the soundcheck which blew my mind! The band is outstanding...

Prince actually comes off stage to interact with the NPG Music Club members. But, U better not ask 4 an autograph. He told me himself..."I don't give autographs. I don't believe in that." That answer in my eyes was the most gracious NO I have ever heard. (smile)

Then on 2 the concert!!!! WOW! That pretty much sums it up...NPG's performance gets better and better with every show! I am now trying 2 figure a way 2 get 2 the last 2 shows.

The afterparty was nice. Prince was a no show though. I left around 1:30am (since the bars in Detroit close at 2am) a little disappointed. But when I thought about it the next venue is in Buffalo, NY and that is a nice drive from Michigan. Prince probably needed time 4 travel.

All in all this experience I will cherish 4ever. I would have never thought in a million years I would have had the chance 2 experience something so great!

Thank you Prince, 4 being the most down 2 Earth, caring, and considerate "star" I have ever met!

Proud NPG Club Member,
Mica (Pronounced Micah, like in the Bible)

from Michelle

Well, I don't know what else to say other than THANK YOU! I loved the intimate setting and the band was SHARP, musically and visually--everybody in they're suits and all! :-) Being able to witness the soundcheck was a dream come true. I'm a musician (violinist and flutist) and have played backup strings for many great artists who have come to Detroit--being able to see the "behind the scenes" Prince was a rare treat. The setlist was everything I hoped for--a bit of new, a bit of old, and NO Purple Rain (sorry, fams! :-)) Thanks again for stoppin' by to see us! We'll see you next time! :-)

Take care and God Bless,
Michelle in Detroit

from Silvia

I'm sitting here in my office, trying to focus on work, but how can I when I saw the most amazing performance I have ever seen in my life?? Maceo??? Rhonda??? How could they ALL be off the hook? And of course, the master of ceremonies was, as usual, at his unpredictable best. I was fortunate enough to attend sound check, which was so intimate and cool (yeah Prince, cool is still alive as long as you are in this physical world) that I couldn't say a word. I just tried to soak it all into my body. It was really funky of him to play Paisley Park at sound check. He took me back and brought me to the now with this capturing new set.

So I just want to urge EVERYONE to see this show and when you get there, go with it; watch true artistry and spirituality happen right before your very eyes, ears and soul.

Mil Gracias to Prince, Rhonda, Maceo, Renato, Greg and John for an unforgettable evening...

Love to you all,
Silvia

from Ara*bia

I as always enjoyed Prince concert on Sunday, March 3, 2002. I was getting kinda annoyed by some of the fake Prince fans that were in the audience. They obviously came there to hear Prince old music instead of letting this artist perform whatever his inner-self tells him too.

If you just want to hear the old songs then you should stay at the crib and safe that space for true Prince fans that enjoy being in his presence and anything he performs.

I loved the concert and I love you Prince, I hope you return to your favorite city again before the year is over with. Hotep,
Ara*bia (aibara)

from Linda

I just cant put into words the experience I had last night. Wow! First we all went into sound check where Prince was very comfortable and very personal with us all. I was humbled when I shouted out,"Prince,I have your face tattooed on my hip." He said ooooh, go get my Bible. " Mr. security man brought him his bible and he started flipping though the pages. Then He said " Tattoo, come here" I walked up on stage and he showed me a verse in the book. It basically said with out quoting it, Don't make cuts on your body or tattoo your body. It was Leviticus:19:38 I believe. Then I asked him " Well how do I fix it?" He said," Accepting Jesus Christ as your savior."

I told him that I had done that and then I went back down were I was sitting. He came over to talk to the npg members. Everyone took turns asking him things and he was giving hand shakes and hugs. He made everyone's day. Then I yelled out, "That wasn't King James version was it? " He said " What do you have when you take away the king part?" I told him that I go to a church where I can "Feel It", He said "feel What? Good choir? " I was stunned for a moment. He hit the nail right on the head. That's what I feel when I am at my church , The Good choir, Not the truth. I asked him if he would tell me what book he studies from and he said, " I'll right it down for you" Then he paused for a moment and said "Better yet , I'll give you mine." well, can you imagine this. I was speechless. He walked off and Mr.. security man came and gave me The bible. I never had a chance to say Thank you . So Prince, thank you for this bible. I will study it. What a wonderful experience. Especially for me , because I have been struggling with this issue. The show was as always very great! See you all at Paisley this summer.

thank you again.
Linda

from purple 1st

The ever-evolving Prince reigns... ...and he ruled and rocked the Detroit Opera House on Wednesday night March 6th.

When I'm fully gray-haired and 60, if Prince is still performing, I'm paying. We "ADORE" you, My Darlin', and you can always consider Detroit, your home away from home. Thank God for the Electrifying Mojo who rocked the airwaves with your music and turned many of us Detroiters into loyal fans of yours in the 80's.

My only disappointment about last night is that I didn't purchase the premium-priced ticket...Ahhh, but next time.

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