Washington D.C. on March 31 (11 reports)

from PluvBwild

well..........after tonites show i was convinced that the sat. show was the best out of the 3 DC shows. No real songs were played at the sound check this nite.........mostly talking to people in the audience but i couldnt make out what the people were saying...........my friend and I sat kinda midway in the back away from the crowd........then I realized that we had sat 2 rows in front of Prince who was crouching down in his seat with the Mic :/
anyway...............the sound check wasnt as good as sat.
the show itself was shorter the sat...........there was an encore which was the usual slow jams part was very good .............then Prince ended the show with a simple "DC goodnite" the lites came on.........people began to leave.........i was saying my goodbyes to the people around me that i knew........"hug hug kiss kiss goodbye b careful" type of stuff.....the stage was being broken down....then Prince came back on the stage........everyone who was left was like "huh???" Prince went to the mike .........
then i noticed this man standing at the side of the stage with a baseball cap on and sweats..........and he had a Gold guitar in his hand.
I blinked and looked again and said "OH My Gawd..........its SANTANA!!!!"...........then Prince began anna steisa........leading into a FULL LONG Version of JOY N REPETITION!!!!!!!.............GOOD GAWD!!!!............Prince singing .........and Santana playing the guitar solo............That is all that needs to be said bout the Sunday show ;)
peace

from luisjacobo

Great show in D.C. last night (3/31)! It was nice to hear some of the newer material (e.g. Rainbow Children, 1+1+1=3) as well as some songs from the past that are not performed on every tour (e.g. The Other Side of the Pillow, Joy in Repetition, LaLaLa). Renato Nero, welcome to the NPG! From Dr. Fink to Mr. Hayes, they can all rest assured that you'll make them proud. And good luck to Brazil in the World Cup (you have a beautiful country). John Blackwell, are you sure you only have to arms? From where I was sitting sometimes it looked as if you had four or five. Larry Graham, it's always a pleasure to see you and Mrs. Graham. That smile that you always have on your face can light up a whole continent. And Prince, thank you for letting us, club members, into the soundcheck, for giving us the VIP treatment, and for bringing some of your friends onstage to participate in the fun. Now, if we could only get a soundboard recording of the concerts we attend delivered to us by emale as a souvenir ... I'll be happy to pay an extra fee.

Thanks again and come back to D.C. soon. Peace!

luisjacobo

from KJS

Hello Prince,
First let me say what a treat...
My wife Clare and I have been a "Fam" for as long as we've been married; 22 years. And we have been to many of your shows, but this one for sure was the best. We were sitting in the second row right up front and my wife was in heaven. We are not afraid too share that we are 40 and 41years of age. "definitely old school" During the sound check when we were all coming into the theater, she looked over and noticed you sitting in the dark giving directives to the other band members. She went over and sat about two rows in front of you before being asked to move by your bodyguard. She was very excited when you walked down the isle and right pass her not more than inches from her. These were the best seats we have ever had at any of you concerts. Membership does have it's rewards. I was the gentleman that you asked, "Is it better to give or receive?"
I said it was better to receive. And you said, "Yea man, I know what you mean!"
You gave me alot to think about so I wrote you a little something. Just my way of giving back for all that you have giving me and my sweet loving wife over the years...This is called... A Rainbow Child Walk with me Step along this slowly winding path Admire the view Cast your eyes upon the fields and quietly sit and wait awhile, for I have seen a rainbow child. I can count a few. Set aside all caution, let question leave your mind. Because you are with me upon this pathway. In a field of smiles. Of Course And when the rainbows touch, I ask, do you still remember me? for, I haven't changed that much. The cloudy skies were painful trapped within my mind. Forcing pain and searching weapons. Weapons so unkind. I was alive within my thoughts. For awhile Though I do confess, scarred by the hail of thunderstorms it put me to the test. I admired many rainbows on the path where I rest. And here amongst all nature, I am now truly blest. In this field of smiles, lets rest awhile. And when the rainbows touch, for I am sure you still remember me! I haven't changed that much. Can you see the rainbow child? Slowly you are free. I'll hold one child in my arms_ As it evokes the harmony ever present in me. Thank you sir, for the memories... I pray you and many others enjoy this poem. KJS "Lovsexy4

from Donald

Thank you Prince for educating my daughers, Anastasia (8) and Epiphany (9), about real music. Epiphany was lucky enought to ask Prince whether he would make an album for children. He seemed to be intrigued by the idea. I really think that he should make an album for kids because it is important that kids be educated about real music rather than what they are being forced to listen to. I decided to do my part and make an investment by taking Anastasia to the Saturday show and Epiphany to the Sunday show so they can hear what live music is supposed to sound like. Needless to say, the investment is already paying off. The girls can't stop talking about how great the concert was and how remarkable it was that Prince and his band played all of the music live and how other artists to not. They said if people want to pay to see someone lip synch and dance, then they can go to Disney. Epiphany was pulled on stage to dance with Prince and Larry and she was ecstatic. She has been talking non-stop about that experience and I am happy that it turned out to be so positive. I was most pleased to see my daughters have an appreciation for songs like Xenophobia, The Jam and other instrumentals that were played. Most kids wouldn't be able to digest music like that because they would rather listen to J-Lo and Murder Inc., murder another classic. Prince asked Epiphany whether she owned any albums. I quickly told him that I had her listening to artists like Donny Hathaway, Slave, Stevie Wonder and of course, Prince. Music is a lot like food. If you grew up on junk food, then that is all you know and unfortunately, that is all that you like, but ultimately you are being deprived of what you really need. Similarly, you are being deprived if you only listen to what they play on the radio now. The worst part is that at least with food, you have a choice, but with music it seems that we do not because of what is played on radio, MTV, BET, etc. We have forgotten the staples; therefore, we have lost our basis. We eat beans and rice in my house, and we listen to Prince, Donny Hathaway, Funkadelic, Marvin Gaye, Zapp, and others. Prince, I hope you take Epiphany's advice about the childrens album. I really think that it would make a difference in our quest to change the destructive direction that music is heading right now because it will speak to the most important and influential audience of all. We have to do something about what is happening, because I can only imagine what music will sound like in twenty years if we do not. But like everything else, it starts at home and I'm trying to do my part. By the way, Epiphany wants you to come see her and her sister play tennis and come to dinner the next time you are in town. We'll be sure to serve beans and rice.

from Lisa

I had a ball at the Saturday and Sunday shows in D.C. The new band is out of this world. Renato, Rhonda, Greg, John, Maceo and Najee are all top notch. (Like you don't know that already) They rocked the house! Please put a full show from this tour on cd and release it.

Thanks to the music club I had 5th row center seats last night and 10th row on Saturday. I have never had seats that good. I've been a fan since 1978 and these last two nights were extremely special for an old timer like me :) When I attended my first show in 1982 I never would have thought that 20 yrs later I would actually be attending soundchecks and getting great seats to shows.

Speaking of soundchecks, thank you, thank you, thank you for letting us watch you work. My dad plays acoustic bass and I used to watch him practice so I know how you and the band really could do without the distraction.

I was sitting beside the young lady you called to the stage to dance during Raspberry Beret and you made her night. She was happy, nervous, and stunned at the same time. When she came back to her seat she couldn't stop laughing and crying :) She kept asking us if she embarrassed herself on stage with you. We assured her that she did not :)

Thanks again and, Hurry Up This Way Again (how's that for old school).

peace

from luisjacobo

Great show in D.C. last night (3/31)! It was nice to hear some of the newer material (e.g. Rainbow Children, 1+1+1=3) as well as some songs from the past that are not performed on every tour (e.g. The Other Side of the Pillow, Joy in Repetition, LaLaLa). Renato Nero, welcome to the NPG! From Dr. Fink to Mr. Hayes, they can all rest assured that you'll make them proud. And good luck to Brazil in the World Cup (you have a beautiful country). John Blackwell, are you sure you only have to arms? From where I was sitting sometimes it looked as if you had four or five. Larry Graham, it's always a pleasure to see you and Mrs. Graham. That smile that you always have on your face can light up a whole continent. And Prince, thank you for letting us, club members, into the soundcheck, for giving us the VIP treatment, and for bringing some of your friends onstage to participate in the fun. Now, if we could only get a soundboard recording of the concerts we attend delivered to us by emale as a souvenir ... I'll be happy to pay an extra fee.

Thanks again and come back to D.C. soon. Peace!

from Melanie

Attention everyone: YOU MUST SEE THIS SHOW! This was my seventh time seeing Prince and the NPG and let me just say that there is truly "Joy In Repetition." Because I've have learned to expect the best from Prince and his band, I am no longer suprised but I am constantly amazed by their ability to redefine best with each new concert. The proficiency at which they tickle those keys, strum the guitar, bang those drums and blow the horn is unmatched. And Prince, well there are not words to adequately describe how completely magnifcent this musical genius is on stage. Toss in the smooth sounds of Najee, sprinkle some of Larry Graham's pure funk and mix in some Santana--yes you read correctly-- Mr. Carlos Santana (whose guitar playing speaks to my soul) joined Prince on stage for a second encore--and you have the best concert that will ever grace that theater. That is of course, until Prince and the NPG roll through DC again. Thank you Larry Graham, Carlos Santana, The NPG and most of all Prince for a beautiful night.

from Janitri

SunDay nite was yet another excellent party - what a blessing to be with the NPG, NPG fams, and Prince! Carlos Santana performed at the end with the NPG (his gold guitar is just ~beautiful~). Larry joined the party with Tina and their energy was just so fine - it's so dear to see their love. Rhonda - the brothers next to me were chanting "we want Rhonda" because they dig u so much while the women around them were doing the "we want Prince" to get every1 out again after you all left. Prince, ur message of "Change is good."…it means so much to hear it from u and makes it easier to embrace change without resistance. Your +ity is so beautiful. We will be patiently awaiting the first release cd (just Prince and the piano :) from the NPG music club for year 2.

from Myabocca

Well there's only one word 2 describe this show -- FONKY Santana and Larry G - FONKY
Adore, Mellow, Joy in Repetition, A Case of U and Do Me Baby- 2 FONKY The NPG wedged boots Prince wore - Priceless

Thanks 4 another spectular experience. Kudos 2 the NPGMC, my Row A seats rocked.

from Fungkface

Wow,
The first time I saw Prince, He opened for Rick James in 1980 or '81 in Rochester, NY. As I remember it, he rocked that crowd so hard that they were still yelling for Prince after Rick began his show (which was no small feat since Buffalo and Rochester are so close, we considered Rick to be a homeboy). Since then, I have seen many Prince shows and many band configurations. Last night at the Warner, I was transported to a musical bliss that I have so seldom felt in live performances. I've danced and head-banged at other shows, but last night I just listened to the music and grooved with every note that was played. I had an over-enthusiastic woman next to me who wanted to talk and critique every song selection, and I couldn't give her any energy, I was glued to the stage watching the musician's every move and relishing the depth and rhythm of every song. With much respect to the Revolution, I've always felt The Sign of the Times band was Prince's best ensemble, but this team is the ultimate. Renato is an excellent keyboardist (peace to Mr. Hayes): John Blackwell an exciting drummer (respect to Michael B and Sheila): Rhonda on Bass is just a treat to behold (and of course Mr. Graham too)! And this Najee/Greg Boyer(from P-funk)and Maceo(whom I didn't see last night)horn thing is out of this world! This concert was so musically rich and textured. Thank you so much for sharing your genius with us. I'm looking forward to having a copy of Xenophobia. Just when I think you can't jam any harder, you create an instrumental masterpiece that exceeds your best work. I also thank you for letting us experience soundcheck. Over the years, I've only known you through your music. Last night, I got to experience you at work; at play; at your most charming; most funny; most mature. For a fan, it's an absolute delight.
So all this to say Thank you Prince! And for anyone else reading this, if he comes to your town....Yo, if comes anywhere near your town...make the trip. It's so worth it.
One,
Fungkface

from Lisa

Wow! All I can say is AWESOME! Thanks Prince and NPG for a night I'll never forget. The soundcheck was fun. When we entered, Prince was sitting in the last row of the theater in the dark running the soundcheck over a cordless mic. After about 10 minutes he came up on stage. Prince was in a playful mood talking to us alot and joking around. Najee was practicing a few songs they added since he played the tour last. He was great as usual. Incense were burning on one side of the stage and huge overstuffed pillows were on each side on the floor. There were long purple draperies and a rainbow children backdrop on the side of the stage. Larry Graham came up on stage and played one of his songs with the band and talked to us as well. The soundcheck lasted about 45 minutes. I could tell we were in for a great show.

The show started at 8:15 and went until 10:55. Prince and the band played the Rainbow Children to perfection. The songs are awesome on the album but live, even better. Thanks Prince for letting me (I am a follower) come up on stage and sit on the pillows. I enjoyed seeing you so up close and personal. I did have great seats ( 2nd row on the side) thanks to the NPGMC. It was very kind of you to let so many people have the opportunity to come on stage during the show. Thanks Larry for pulling me back on stage to dance later during the concert. Those will be memories none of us will ever forget. I appreciate how you let club members feel so special by letting us into the soundcheck and pointing us out during the concert and being concerned that we have good seats. This is my second year as a member and it has been worth every penny. The song list was too long to remember in order but highlights were all the Rainbow Children songs, especially 1+1+1+ is 3. A Case of You was beautiful. Strange Relationship jammed. The encore piano medley was great. It was nice to hear just you on piano without the band for a few songs. We all know you are a musical genius and how talented you are but to hear how perfectly you play the songs and sing them at the piano only makes us appreciate your talents more. And Carlos Santana sitting in on the last encore songs- now that was a great surprise. He sure could play the guitar on Joy in Repetition. Renato was terrific on keys, Rhonda was wonderful on bass, Greg Boyer was very good on horns, and John Blackwell- words can't describe! I got to "high five" him at the end of the night.

Prince, I've been a fam since 78 and your music has been a part of my life since I was 15. I still have the 8-track tape of Dirty Mind that I used to play every day on my way to high school . My six year old loves your music too. He's been hearing it since he was conceived. He keeps asking me to bring him to a concert to see you live. One day I will. He was so excited to hear that you let me come up on stage. Thanks for a night I'll always cherish and thanks for 24 years of inspirational music. I'll always be a "follower".

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