Cleveland, OH on March 10 (22 reports)

from Nancy

Hello NPG,

I wanted to share my experience with you guys. I saw the Cleveland show. I have been working my butt off in Nursing school and i needed a break. Prince decided to come to Cleveland right in time for my spring break week.Perfect.

I have been chatting with a fellow fam for about 7 months online, this concert gave us a chance to finally meet.I flew from Norfolk VA to Pittsburg. Then met my new friend and I drove to Cleveland, a fun adventure huh.

The soundcheck was really interesting, Prince seemed chill. I wanted to tell him im writing my research paper on him and his music but i didnt get a chance. Billy Sparks handed me my pass and it really made me feel like a part of everything.

The music felt so good, and so right all i can say is thank God for Prince. The concert was so professional, no cursing, clean cut outfits, sick mercedes grill in front of the keyboards.All these years of creating music and working so hard, has come together to make a wonderful masterpiece. Prince was fine and smooth. He really took the opportunity to hip the audience to his amazing vocal abilities too. Unfortunately i went with someone who doesnt believe in Jesus, and we could not enjoy the concert on the same level. But he is crazy about Prince so it was kind of like he was forced to give in a little, and listen, this made me happy!! One more thing, I have been searching for a good copy of Prince doing "A Case of U" by Joni. Only to find scratchy unfinished versions. I would like to thank Prince for releasing the shiny new recording of it and performing it for me in Cleveland. A dream come true.I might be young (22) but believe me i have been jamming to Prince since D&P came out and dont worry i got all the matierial. Since the beginning. I love music it helps me stay positive, Thanks so much 4 ur time. Bless all ya'll.

Love4oneanother, Nancy

from LaVina

Believe it or not I was so late to the concert. When we got there Prince was on his last three songs. I was so hurt.I had told my husband that he had to be sitting at the computer at 10:00am when those tickets went on sell. I didn't even know that Prince was touring. We were out eating on Valentine's Day and we had picked up the news paper to see what time a movie started. I looked over as my husband was reading and saw those lumen eyes starring at me. I almost flew out my seat when I read that THE MAN was coming to CLEVELAND. I have never had the pleasure of seeing Prince in concert. I had to work the day the ticket went on sell. My husband called me and told my that we had floor seats and that the tickets were over $200 for the two. I had no problem with that. I was surprised but not the less bit mad. I told everyone that I was going they said You are CRAZY to pay that much. Half of them didn't even know that there is a new CD out. I was not a member at that time so I didn't know anything about any after PARTIES. I do know that when I got to my seat and looked up at PRINCE I didn't even care that I missed the whole show "almost". It didn't even matter (Money DIDN'T matter THAT night-smile) After Prince walked off that stage I looked at my husband and said It was STILL WORTH IT. He look at me and said YEAH but we need our A_ _ kicked for missing this. As we all stood there in the dark no one made a move for the door. We all started to scream and clapped like crazy folks up in there. The next thing I know I saw a shadow go across the stage to the piano. I almost lost my mind up in that place. Tears came to my eyes as that distinctive beautiful voice filled my ears once again. All I can say is GOD IS GOOD. The Lord truly BLESSED me with ONE NIGHT ALONE with PRINCE. PRINCE YOU ARE TRULY THE MANNNNNNN. You have a beautiful mind,heart and face. Thank You for the experience. I truly needed that in my life at this time. I am the one that was glowing at the last minute of the show. Sorry I'll never be late to another PRINCE concert again. I felt like you knew we were late and was like lets give them a little of this good stuff. Thank You B-mind Akron Ohio LaVina

from R Wilson

HI EVERYONE I HAVE BEEN TO ABOUT 20 OF PRINCE SHOWS IN MY LIFE,I TOOK MY 2 SONS 20, 24 TO THE SHOW IT WAS ON ME ALL I WANT TO SAY IS THESE GUYS WERE RAISED ON PRINCE MUSIC THEY CAME OUT OF THE SHOW CRYING I ASKED WHY THEY SAID THEY HAD NEVER BEEN SO CAUGHT UP(SMILE) GREAT SHOW CANT WAIT FOR ANOTHER LOVE TO PRINCE A NPG.....R WILSON CLEVELAND OHIO

from Barb

I just wanted to drop a line about the concert at the Palace in Cleveland.

First I want to thank Prince for letting us members sit in on the soundchecks. My husband and I really enjoyed it! It was great to watch him work the band and Prince was a great host. I have always wanted to be that proverbial fly on the wall in the studio when he records. So second place to that experience would be watching the soundcheck. The band is very tight and Prince was really nice to us fans. It's nice to be appreciated!

This was the 5th time I've seen Prince play, and this was by far the greatest concert I've ever seen! My seats were great, much better than I've ever had before. Also the Palace is a wonderful place to see and hear a concert. The sound was exquisite. And the man was definitely on point....as well as the whole band. I was really into hearing the new material performed live, I love Muse to the Pharaoh, Mellow and 1+1+1=3. I wish he would have played "She Loves Me 4 Me", but if he played all the songs that I want to hear he'd still be up on the stage right now! The set list was a nice mix of old and new and covers too. I can't see how anyone could really have any complaints. The piano set totally blew me away. What a voice! Oh man, if I had that voice, I would never talk. I'd sing everything.

His guitar and voice are still in my head. I've been humming and singing to myself ever since Sunday night. I just want to thank the club for the opportunity to see my favorite performer work it! And I'd like to thank Prince for all the great music he's given us. And here's to many more great tunes! ***toast***

Thanks again!

Barb Toth

from Jerald B.

We are all blessed with so many wonderful gifts in life, and the artistry and musicianship of Prince has always been one of them. I just witnessed Prince live in Indianapolis, and I admit I didn't have high expectations for the show. I've seen Prince live many times since his "Controversy" tour, and after each concert I say to myself, "it's never gonna get better than that." But guess what???? It did get better tonight.

I'm not going to get into the fantastic array of songs Prince performed or how this could be his best musical band ever. I'll always remember how my fiance, who had never seen Prince before, was crying during Prince's piano medly. She told me later that she was taken to another place, a place she hadn't been in awhile, and she was so moved that she was brought to tears.

Like I said, the concert was a gift, and it was something we'll remember "until the end of time"

from Renee and Kelly

First, let me start off by saying "The Rainbow Children" is a wonderful compilation of music with a message...Prince, by far has out done himself!!
We had listened to the cd 3 weeks straight b4 the concert, it really moved us and made us reflect on our lives. We were automatically addicted to the cd and it's magnificent melodies, and positive messages.
So, that brings us to March 10, 2002....
We had wonderful 10th row center stage seats...we were so close to you we thought we all would faint!!!!!!!
This particular venue wasn't what we were used to seeing Prince in action...but we must say we enjoyed it a lot more, it was very intimate....and did feel like one night alone with just Prince.
His band was phenomenal, they rocked the Palace!!! And of course Prince was magnificent himself .We think by far this was his best concert we've been to.
The set list was basically all his new stuff, we were totally into 1+1+1 is 3, Mellow....the crowd really seemed to like those 2.....
The rest of the songs he sang (and I'll try to put down as many as I remember because I'm still in a daze)... "The Rainbow Children, "Muse 2 the Pharaoh, "Mellow", "1+1+1 is 3", "Family Name", "Raspberry Beret" "Nothing Compares 2 u" , I Love u...." La La La(I love U) And he blessed Cleveland with singing "Purple Rain" which we were not expecting, but of course loved!!!!
He played for almost 3 Hours, which was the best 3 hours of our lives!!!!
He pointed to Renee which made her happier than you will ever know.....
We just wanted to thank Prince for his talent and the new cd that really made us take a different perspective in life.....we took 2 people to the concert that didn't know the new songs, but loved the show just the same!!!!
Thank u Prince and the NPG for the experience of a lifetime!!!!
MUCH, MUCH, LOVE ,
Renee, Kelly, Tracy, and Daniel

from Earl

Well what can be said for the greatest musician on the planet. This was my third Prince Concert in a row. ( Nov 2000 Cle, Jun 2001 Det), and as always the Man himself delivered. Complete editions of the The Rainbow Children, Muse To The Pharoah, and Mellow were slamming to start the night off. The guitar solos were all tip top in form as well. Another showing of Najee was good also as he was with Prince the last time he hit Cleveland.

The crowd was absolutely mesmerized when he performed with such patience and perfection. My date had never been to a Prince concert and during the show she was dancing and clapping like a pro. After the show she said that was the greatest performance she had ever seen.

The best part for me was the 1+1+1= 3 became Roller Coaster of Love by none other than the Ohio Players which Prince made it be known that this was the Ohio show. Now after he left stage to a standing ovation no less, Prince came back to give it to us on the keys. He lit up the crowd with The Beautiful Ones, Purple Rain , Sometimes It Snows in April, Adore and my personal favorite How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore with a little twist. The women in that place were on fire after that set.

The next set gave us some "hits", Take Me With U/ Raspberry Beret to get the crowd back up at His Command. Anastasia came out of nowhere and hit the joint like a ton of bricks. I had to go home and pull that out and listen to it once again just to make sure that I wasn't hearing things. All in all Prince was on the top of his game as always and I would not expect anything else. He gave us some jazz, blues, funk, R&B, and some gospel in one very moving night. This was definetly a show for a mature music loving crowd that can comprehend the essence of great music. God Bless all that read this and Prince himself.

Earl Pierson
Cleveland Heights, OH

PS.........I'll see you in DC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

from P-Dubb

Prince vs. My Momma

Well, this is definetley a night when the soundcheck was better than the show.
And of course the show smoked, but the check is a experience that is so rare.
Prince checked his band, this night including Najee, who replaced Maceo, for just under a good hour and a half, beginning with "Strange Relationship" as music club members waltzed into the Palace Theater on Sunday.
A little more subdued than in Detroit, Prince, sporting a long coat and white hat, asked Mike, the person who hooked me up with a great seat for the show at half price, about his shirt (which had a picture of Prince on it) and Mike tried to take it off and give it to him.
Prince spent much more time just working the band and getting Najee up to speed since it was his first time playing the new material. Prince commented during the check, after watching Najee read "charts" (written music), that if he was left to read music he would be hurting, cause he couldn't read music. He was being very open, giving up information that I'm sure any music journalist would want to know, like the fact that the Batdance album (I"m pretty sure that was the album they were talking about, Prince didn't always talk on mike) was originally supposed to be half him, the other half Michael Jackson, but it didn't pan out. Or the fact that he bought his Horner telecaster copy, the famous guitar that appears on the cover of Controversey, at a gas station for cheap, and that no one beleived him when he told the story. I asked him how old it was and said it was a "81" meaning it was made in 1981. It also seems that he acknowleged to a club member that he is married.
Musically Prince checked four songs really hard. "LaLaLaLa, The Santana Suite, Everlasting Now and Calhoun Square", (I had to ask John Blackwell after the check the name of Calhoun Square, off of Crystal Ball, since I just got the song titles recently, and still was not very familar with the material from the record) starting and stopping each song and going over different parts until the band got comfortable with the material. The band probably worked the most on Everlasting, with Prince starting and stopping, saying it was too slow, or taking it back to the bridge. Over and over and over again. It took me back to my days as a junior high stage drummer, and the endless repetition of rehearsals. They pretty much played Calhoun Square and Strange Relationship straight through, but only worked on the horn parts on LaLaLa, and kept working just certain parts of the Santana Suite. They spent the most time on Everlasting Now, which is a trip since he hasn't played it in the regular show. So through sound checks I've heard three songs, Calhoun, Paisley Park and Everlasting Now, that haven't made it into the regular show. Calhoun Square smoked. The best song of the two days (Cleveland and Detroit) of checking out the music. (Nearly four hours worth of music in Cleveland.) He seemed to really battle with his headset, constantly telling his sound person (Shawn, if I remember) to turn up or down the guitar in his set, or the vocals. If the band is having problems musically it can't be heard by the audience. They're flawless.
One amazing part was the amount of leverage that he gives band members to work out parts to their liking and adding their own suggestions. At one point it seemed Renato, the keyboard player, and Rhonda had some heavy dissusion about a line and how it should be played. And at one point, when Denato said he would "lead in" the horns with a line, Prince said, "Lead them in, but try to trick em!" It was hard to tell if he was joking or serious. Prince was getting hyped when Najee added a flute to a song, stomping away from center stage and telling Najee "Go on with your bad self".
And since Prince was in a talking mood I just had to throw my 2 cents in, asking why, and I always wanted to know this, he (and other musicians) put their drummers behind glass. He cracked "Breath" referring to John's breath, and everybody cracked up. He told Rhonda he would tell her the joke later. I then asked through my laughter if it was to cut down on the ambient sound of the drums onstage and he said yes.
The soundcheck was much more musically oriented than the Detroit check, with the band playing only two songs in Detroit (although one was Paisley Park, which I don't think I have heard live at a regular show). It really gave us a chance to see how a band rehearses. It's beyond words what it was like to watch the process with such stellar musicians like Prince's band. Najee told me after the sound check that he didn't listen to any of the new album, and he is reading the music to learn. "Reading poorly" as he said, to which I replied, "We'll it don't sound like that out here."

And then the moment of the evening.

Since he was in a playing the dozens, or jigging, (as we called it growing up), mood, I figured I'd get in on it, if for any reason to fire up the very quiet crowd who seemed overwhelmed by the fact that Prince was onstage answering questions from the audience. I know he just a genius cat from Minneapolis, and I know Brothers from Minneapolis, and I'd been waiting to make a comment about the Lexus and Mercedes Benz grills that adorned the front of each keyboard, and my chance came when Prince asked the crowd what they thought about the grills, and they applauded, until I cracked on Prince,
"So whose Mercedes you vandalize to get that grill?"
Prince waited a moment and said, "You know, back in the day when I cursed, I would have said something like, um, 'Yo Mama'.
So I laughed at him, wagging my finger at him and told him not to be talking about my Momma!
A audience member reminded him that he did actually say, My Momma, even though he gave up cursing.
So Prince cracked on my Momma, and I know that somewhere up in heaven, my Mom, who passed on Christmas Eve 2000, her birthday, is cracking up, and happy her little boy got a chance to jig with his teenage hero.
And perhaps she is telling Prince's mother, if media reports of her passing are true, how big a fan her son is of his, and how much he enjoyed getting a chance to play the dozens with Prince.

And the moment that just never happened.
I got up my courage, and since not that many of the 200 or so members and ushers gathered for the check were saying much (a brother in back of me asked if he had taken voice lessons) I asked if I could get up and play some drums on a blues song, and he bemoaned "In a minute". I couldn't believe it and didn't really think I'd get the chance, since he checked up until 7pm (he let us in at 5:40) and it took me all of the soundcheck to muster up the courage to ask, which I did at, like, 6:57. And as I figured, the check ended without my chance to jam.

It was the loose atmosphere of the soundcheck that made me feel like I could relax and have fun and ask the things that I did.

And of course the show smoked, even though Prince did play "Purple Rain" during the encore piano solo after telling the Detroit audience that if they came to hear Purple Rain, it wasn't, and didn't, happen.

With the exception of The Beautiful Ones and Purple Rain the set remained the same as has been reported. It was about ten or 15 minutes, and a few songs shorter than Detroit. No Girls and Boys. So that was Detroit's treat, where I guess Prince felt Cleveland would rather hear Purple Rain.

Nearly 4 hours of music, and priceless memories.

P-Dubb

from Jeff

high Prince and the npgmc!
well, i am proud to say that i "followed" Prince and his amazing entourage to the Cleveland gig to behold another killer show. I really thank Prince for allowing us to see soundcheck and observe him doing his thing...going over certain measures with Najee who replaced Maceo on sax... reminded me of my days in high school when our band instructor would go over the rhythm over and over til we felt comfortable.
i really love his new band...they blend well together! it was funny when he asked if anyone knew how to play instruments and i said "yeah the tambourine" to which he laughed and said that there was a professional tambourine player present. i was able to ask him several questions: 1. Did he like any superheroes aside from batman(since i collect comic books...) 2. what is the song he has the most fun performing. 3.Does he talk to Michael Jackson at all. He responded 1. no..i just liked that Supercheck 2. there 2 many i have fun doing 3. yes we talk. I thought it was cool that he acknowledged me..thank you!!
The show was great..i borught a friend who is a joni mitchell fan and loved Prince's rendition of "a case of u". the piano portion, which is always a highlight for me, was wonderful. i was surprised to see him play 'purple rain' but hey i'm not complaining! Again thank you Prince for coming to cleveland and columbus ( i was your first "follower" in columbus and will never forget that)..and thank you for allowing us to sit back and chill to some great music. take care and god bless you and your crew.
LUVtheCHUB aka Jeff

from Rod

Thank u, Prince, Najee, Rhonda, John, Greg and Renato for last night in Cleveland. Thank you to all who were in attendance for showing so much love for true artistry and real music. This was the 4th show I've attended since "Emancipation" and this was the best one, hands down. I loved getting to hear so much of "The Rainbow Children" live. In many respects, I think this music is best experienced live. For you unfortunate souls out there who are coming to the shows, but haven't yet picked up "The Rainbow Children", GET READY!! The flow Prince achieves with this band is extraordinary. It was just too cool to hear Prince play his guitars the way he did. The covers of Erykah Badu, Santana, the Delfonics and the Ohio Players were hot and on point. The forays he made into the catalog were another strength. I loved hearing jams from "Dirty Mind", "Purple Rain", "Parade", "Sign 'O' The Times", "The Truth" and "Rave". While Prince didn't play my favorite "Rainbow" song, "Last December", I was awestruck when he closed the show with "Anna Stesia". This was a truly memorable performance. Once again, thank u Prince and the NPG!

With love and respect, Rod

from DAYMAKER

The Cleveland Show marked a new vintage to PRINCE.

PRINCE, God looks real great in the aura of your show... You are healing your soul and you are touching so many with your elated soul. A brother like no other your lyrics and energy are far beyond you, it is if you have created a beautiful loop and you just keep tapping in.

As they say devote thy soul to the temple and all shall be revealed, and the way to your souls longing is revealed. 3rd row, a Gemini like yourself, birthed on the same day. I was blown away by the energy you brought to the Palace Theatre, and left all spirits hummin GOD that was amazing! This is an amazing step for prince fans worldwide. If there was one thing I see happening, is the crowd realizing life its self is a HIGH like no other, that within this temple where only the purest foods, thoughts, air, water, religion and music are allowed. The TRUE EVOLUTION of the human self can take place.

I was so honored and compelled to meet you, Oh well! The show was great but your loss my friend, I had an amazing meal gourmet, grown by my hands, raw, organic, enzymatically fresh, attuned to the gemini in you and vibrationally alive for you spirit. As for the world I hope you are allowed to experience a meal such as this, you will never go back to the ordinary life.

Many Blessings, Om Mani Pad Me Hum & Namaste'

ONE NITE ALONE CHANGED MY LIFE......

DAYMAKER :)

from Agape'

We caught the tour in cleveland. It was awesom! CDs do not do Prince justice.his voice is incredible. My husband and I wanted to talk to him to see how his study with Larry Graham is going, but we were in the mezzanine and could not get there fast enough. And to let him kow that his enthusiasm for the truth has infused new life into my ministry. It's nice to know that people are still taking in an acurate kowledge and conforming their lives to Jehovah's will. I sincerely hope he continues his study and may Jehovah bless his efforts.

Agape'
jason and mindy meade

from Rachel

I had a wonderful time watching you and hearing you sing for us at the Palace last Sunday. You were truly charming + exciting.....i loved the show! I went to the show alone..but it didn't matter...i had crowds of people all around me jammin to Anna Stesia, Mellow, Strange Relationship...... It was a wonderful and intimate experience having U at the Palace. Rhonda played wonderfully and the band was tight! Of course you looked wonderful and we love you! I hope to go to Paisley Park one day....to here U all jam. Oh......i need to become a member so i can witness the soundchecks! Thank you Prince for giving us the wonderful joys of your music! You are most appreciated!

from J-Dub...

"One night alone with Prince..." was just that. It was a powerful, musical, soul-lifting experience like no other. I have been to many of his concerts here in Cleveland over the years and NOTHING COMPARES to this! Whether it was your "first time", as many Prince virgins called themselves that night, or lifetime fans like myself...the level of energy lifted you out of your seat for close to 3 hours.

The first time I saw him live I had tears in my eyes. I sat so far away I could barely see him, but his words touched me just the same. I have been so blessed to obtain tickets for the last two concerts that placed me in first and second rows. Up close he is beautiful. My dream is to see him sing SCANDALOUS live, but I will have to wait for another show. Sunday night he sang ADORE and it felt like you were the only one in the room with him. He is so full of passion and when he sings it touches your inner soul.

His gorgeous smile that night lit up the whole room. Three thousand people...all diverse...standing on an imaginary shore...waiting for his music to drench them and pull them into the depths of his abyss. I was very moved by his performance. I have followed his music from the very beginning, since I was SEVEN...and I'll turn thirty in August. Ironically, my son is SEVEN now and begged to come to the concert with me. It was heartbreaking to leave him at home...especially when he enjoys Prince's music just as much as mom!! (Maybe next time when the tickets aren't so much and it's not a school night) This time was my "One night alone with Prince" and my Valentine's day gift to ME!!!

To Prince (the LOVESEXY KING) Thank you...I truly ADORE you. If God one day struck me blind, your beauty I'd still see...and hear! To all who are interested...XPAND your mind and let him take U 2 a COOL place! Peace and B Wild y'all.

Friend, Lover, Sister, Mother, Wife...
Jennifer Williams
Bedford, Ohio

from Frederick

There are no words to describe the concert in Cleveland last night. If you haven't gone to a show yet...make sure you get there. Hearing the Rainbow Children live was truly powerful. I have seen Prince many times over the years...since the Purple Rain Days......and this show was indeed......The One. Everybody was feeling the vibe of the Rainbow Children. I can only count the minutes until the "One Nite Alone" tour is on cd. We all witnessed a true Artist at work last night. All of us singing.."Love is God...God is Love...." was breath taking. When the evening was over you could still hear friends walking through the lobby singing......"Love is God, God is love". Truly indeed.....Prince, they are finally getting it.

Frederick Green
Stow, Ohio

from jimmyrogertodd

Thank you,Prince!!!

I have had one of the greatest entertainment weeks of my life. First,the Columbus concert and now the Cleveland. I feel like I won the lotto because I had a blast. Don't let nobody bring down cause you are the Greatest entertainer on the planet. This has nothing to do with the Grammies,Amecian Music Awards or the Oscars but when it comes down to the nitty gritty,you bring it like it aught to be brought!!! First, Maceo and now Najee!!! Kenny ??? I was totally grooving.To hear you even whisper Adore would bring back memories of passions gone by and love that stands the test of time. I could only thank you for allowing my love Daphne to sing for you in Columbus even though she did know the song!!! She had the time of her life. She couldn't stop thinking about that special moment in her life and it bought a smile to my face and for that I thank you. Continue to preach the good word,brother!!!

from Lori

Dear Prince,

Last night was the first time in my life ( at the age of 23) to catch you in concert live. There are not enough words in the English language to explain the feelings I experienced at the concert last night. The music just took my breath away and you were nothing but AMAZING! Even though I was in seat 317 LL I still felt that we touch on a personal level. I could feel the love have for your fans and the love the fans had for you and let me tell you this, you are so loved. Your music is definitely a music of it's own. Thanks for playing one of my favorite songs "Purple Rain" and I also love "Last December."

I also loved the way you play all your guitars, the symbol guitar is my favorite. You are definitely passionate about your music and I think that is what I admire the most, because with passion comes inspiration and you have definitely inspired me to do what I can to make the world a better and love one another, because every single person in the world deserves to be loved and last night you definitely got that message across to the audience. Let's just hope they take that message and spread it throughout the world.

I just want to thank you for putting on such a spectacular performance and I am definitely going to become a member of NPG so the next concert I will be in the front row, you better believe it:) You are One of a kind and you are a genius in the music industry you take music to whole different level I Love it. I have nothing but love and respect for you has a person and a musician. Once again thank you for the concert it was a night I will never forget. May God Bless You!

PEACE and LOVE,
Lori Kuhlman
Columbus, OH

from tiger

The spirit still courses through my veins tonight. I was blessed to be at the Prince concert this evening. I arrived by 5:30 to experience the sound check. My guest and I chatted with the people around us. The vibe was HOT and we filed in patiently through the beautiful rooms and halls and into one of our oldest, most prestigious theaters. Turns out we're standing in line with the people sitting to the right of us and to the left. We all talked in line, Rainbow Children Rise. Prince was already on stage by the time we got in. He was chatting with the crowd. He wore the jacket from the cover from Controversy and a hat. The boots he had on were mesmerizing. I had never seen him so close in real life. The crowd was awe-struck. Najee seemed to be joining the band for the show and they played some HOT warm ups. A tamborine had been passed out to the crowd. I had brought mine. Purchased on line, it ached to be broken in at a real concert. The song list was excellent, though I won't go into the titles of the sounds we heard during the check but suffice to say it left us aching for the concert and well fufilled, getting to glimpse the man up close and personal. We had a whole hour it seemed of fun with Prince and practically our own concert. Then it was time for Prince to get ready for the show and let the crowd in.

We stood upon a balcony in a achitectural masterpiece watching the crowd gather trying to spot my sister and my good friend who were meeting us there. Instead we ended up talking again with the people around us. One man had drove in from Solon. Two girls had a limosine ride from Sandusky. What fun. One could feel the love in the room. We talked about the Web Site. I was most pleased to tell them all about how great it was to get the downloads all year. And how special that was. Then the lights dimmed and it was time for the SHOW. As we were seated, there were my sister and my friend in their seats, looking for us. More love in the room. We took our seats and mingled with the people around us. All of them fondled and played the tamborine as I passed it around. We talked about the up-coming CELEBRATION. The crowd was ready.

The curtains opened and the Najee walked down the aisle playing the intro to Rainbow Children. The house was elecrified. Prince took the stage and crowd went wild. We all took our seats and listened to Prince and his band sooth us with their jazzy sounds. They sounded so sweet. Everyone tapped their toes and nodded their heads as we got to see all the musicians shine, entrancing us into the show. Prince said if you came to get your Purple Rain on, you were at the wrong party. Then he continued playing much of the Rainbow Children album. It show-cases the artists so well and Prince kept bringing in the audience, what a show-man. Then their came some dance music and people rose to their feet. 1+1+1=3 really rocked and some off-the-wall funk continued. Cleveland tore the roof off Love Roller Coster and we all sang La, la, la, la .. . I love you. Then we all settled in for some slow numbers. Prince had the crowd in the palm of his hand. We stood and danced to a couple songs and then settled in so all could see well. Great mix. At one point someone was asked to the stage to lounge on the pillows strewn about the stage. Another point a man was invited up to rock on the cow bell. Prince looked great. It was nice to see him smiling.

Much of the show after Rainbow Children set were titles from many Prince albums that didn't get played much live. I won't give away the details. But WOW. Thanks. It is so nice to hear them. I heard everything from the Crystal Ball to Under the Cherry Moon to some download numbers and back again. And what a tease, there was even a glimmer of Purple rain. Sweet. After much music, the show ended.

The people went nuts. The Cleveland crowd was seathing for more. And they got it. Prince came out to his keyboards. It seemed alone. All on our feet, he told us to sit back and enjoy. Like putty we sat back, listening to Prince play and sing his heart out. All the songs that puts his heart out on his sleeve. Oh, and the songs that just woo a person to feeling great about themselves and ready to GET DOWN. It was so personal and the whole crowd was feeling it. A tear gathered in my eye seeing all the BEAUTIFUL ONES around me as we all swayed and moved to the most intimate music we have ever been so blessed to see and hear. I was so glad I saw Prince on this special tour.

Thank you, Prince, for giving your long-time fans a good whoop-tee-doo as we venture into a new music scene where maybe the middle man is cut out, and the Artist can sell his wares and play his music directly to the people.

There seemed to be no after show. No announcement had been made. Prince came out to the crowd with house lights on, moments after the show ended. People seemed very surprised. We lingered waiting for an announcement about where to go from there. None came. That was alright though. It was a cold, wild night in the Midwest as we all know. Cold and windy and wet outdoors and we all know how to entertain ourselves inside. Between the preshow and the concert, I had had a full 5 hours of Prince. Equally special were all the Prince fans that I met. What a pleasure to all get together and get our FREAK on.

Thanks again. Props to all. The musicianship was stellar. I've never ever had a NIGHT so intimate and up-close with an artist. I can't wait to get the word out. I feel like I was at a spiritual event tonight. I look forward to another year as a member of the NPG Music Club.

Peace,
tiger

from Purpleman99

Very similar setlist as the Columbus show. Prince added solo piano versions of "The Beautiful Ones", "Nothing Compares 2 U", and "Purple Rain" to the set!!! AMAZING!!!

2Nite was also Najee's first night of the tour. I was able to get in for the sound check with a good friend who is now in the NPG Music Club. The band sound checked for about an hour and a half with us in there. They worked on the Santana song for quite a while. Prince commented on how it was Najee's first night and how Najee could read the music. Prince made a comment that he himself could not read music. During soundcheck someone asked Prince why the drummer (John, right???)had the plexiglass wall in front of his drums, whereas Prince responded that the drummer had bad breath!!! Prince is very funny :)

The Cleveland crowd blew the Columbus crowd away!!! Everybody was so loose and into the music tonite. Prince totally fed off the crowd. He actually came out about 6 rows into the crowd just to be one with us. The place EXPLODED when he did this!!! After the show, Prince actually came back onstage to shake hands with a few fans while the crew started breaking the stage down. TOO COOL!!!

from Ann Marie

All I could think was may God bless Prince with love eternal. The man really is a special piece of God's creation. As I watched these amazing artists, I felt so lucky to be here on earth with them. I was able to share the night with two of my oldest friends. Finally they know what I have been ranting about for the last 17 years. They weren't familiar with all of the music, but were entranced by every note. Prince's guitar has become an extension of his beautiful soul. We all had moments of reflection that moved us to shed a few tears. Mine were mostly because I was reminded that I wasn't alone in my life. Tonight I again saw the possibility of God's creation which comes from Love. I will work harder to be an example of that Everlasting Beauty bestowed upon every one of us "rainbow children."
The man and his music gave me another shot of courage.
Soundcheck was a wonderful treat. We were guests in Prince's home for a magnificent moment. You are all in my prayers. My prayer is to be a the person God intended me to be. Thank you Prince for the courage to spread the word. No we weren't laughing at your hat, even if your mom bought it for you.
God will never let you go.
Ann Marie

from Betty

I just got home from the "One Nite Alone With Prince" concert. It was totally awesome!!! I have seen almost every concert since "Purple Rain" and I think I have seen the complete transformation of Prince. I know he's not completely finished putting on this "new personality," but, Prince, you are doing just fine.

I must confess, this was the most unprepared concert of yours I have ever attended. I did NOT have your new album (will get it tomorrow), so I did not know what to expect. I know what you are capable of, but the new music is wonderful!!! Even the re-working of some of your more seasoned songs was a treat to hear. Your voice is awesome. I could have listened to you all night. Not just singing, but the piano and the guitar too. I love it all.

I'm sorry to say I did not have access to visit the set before the concert because I just joined the club tonight, but I intend to keep on top of things from now on.

Once again, thanks for a spectacular evening!!!

from Jason

"WHAT IT IS?"
I do not know what to say. Ok I will try to tell you my experinence at the "ONE NITE ALONE WITH PRINCE" concert, without jumbling up my words. Well I will start out like this. I have never been to a music concert before. I have been to WWF events...and when I was very young, I saw Peter Pan play at some threatre. It was March 10th, one week from my birthday. My little princess (Laura,she knows I am Prince fan!) decide to give me an early birthday present. I had no idea what it was. All she told me was that on sunday, the 10th of March, I had to come over to her joint and look cute....like I am not cute enough..LOL. But anyway, I did what she wanted me to, and I most say, when I saw her that evening, she was like an angel when she came down the stairs.
She said "are you ready?"
I said "yeah...for what?"
"for your early Birthday present."
"ok..." I was puzzled.
She took me out to dinner to Red Lobster (we don't go there to often,and besides, My princess is a vegetarian). So we ate dinner. And as we ate dinner..."Pop Life" came on radio and I was like "Hey that's PRINCE!" and princess giggled and she said "yup.." and smiled at me. Now when she did smile...she gave me a little like *hint hint* smile. Well to make long story short (TOO LATE FOR THAT...). We go downtown,cleveland to the Playhouse Palace Threatre...and there it is...My Princess unleashes to concert tickets to "ONE NITE WITH PRINCE" I WAS SOOOO HAPPY! LIKE A LITTLE KID ON CHRISTMAS MORNING!!! I hugged her kissed her all over her little face! We walked in the threatre and bought me a hat that says "PRINCE" on it. I never took it off that night. I was one happy camper! I love you Princess.
Now about the concert it's self. Now I never really heard much of his new style but I must say, That man can jam!!! His new music is like almost Jazzy and so fresh. This Wednesday...I am going out and I am going to purchase "THE RAINBOW CHILDREN". I loved every single number he performed that night. It was the greatest musical experience I had ever witnessed. I listen to like Rap and Rock and all the other stuff that is on radio, too, but nothing beats PRINCE. His music is just something I can listen to and never get tired of. I felt the energy he had on stage, and then I look over at the crowd and feel what they are feelin' and the music just flowed through out the whole threatre. Everyone is just all into the groovy. My princess told me to close my eyes and you really feel it. I did and it was like nothing I have ever felt before! Prince is a funny guy when he was interacting with audience. He makes people laugh, showing his humor while performing, that was cool! PRINCE and the NPG just rocked the house! God bless you Prince and the NPG... you guys are my dogs! And to think, this was my first ever concert! Once again, I would have never experienced all this if it wasn't for my soul mate....I love you princess. PEACE OUT!

Jason Campbell
Garfield Heights,Ohio

P.S.
Laura, says 'hi' to Prince and NPG!

from stoneflower75

where should i begin..let me try to explain this experience. i attended the columbus show on tuesday, so i was well prepared for the night's events. me and my lovely girlfriend (she brought the tickets) arrived around four o'clock and saw some people already there.luckily a wonderful thinker (i wish i knew your name) decided to make things orderly..thanks man...while in line we met some fams(adam,john..i cannot remember the other two..forgive me). we went into the soundcheck and there was prince sitting at the fender rhodes playing strange relationship..wow..and then my big moment arrived..the one i've been waiting on for my entire life..prince asked if anyone played any instruments..i replied the tambourine..after a song..prince motioned for his guitar tech to get the tambourine and he handed me the tambourine..ok, contrary to popular opinion..it isnt easy playing ANY instrument for prince. i thought it would be easy. but, boy was i nervous and in awe. oh well..i will never forget this..thanks prince.
the show..similar to columbus but najee replaced maceo on the saxophone.the show was hot!!!the encore was my favorite part. it was just prince and the piano doing adore, the beautiful ones, nothing compares 2 u, how come u don't call, i love u but...it's getting late and i have to write a paper for class tomorrow..once again thank you very much prince for the experience and the laughs..you have put my life into a new perspective..
peace,
stoneflower75

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