Houston, TX on April 14 (21 reports)

from LAL

I’m going to title my report of the Houston show,

“We were not through with you yet”

After an incredible time at the sound check that included over an hour of music, a chance to sing on stage with 2 other Fams, (thanks to my wife for encouraging me to go up and reminding me that it was a once in a lifetime chance), an all too short chance for all of us to talk to Prince, (this could have lasted all night if there had been time) and a 2 ½ hour concert that just tore it up, I can truly say it just wasn’t enough.

I’ve been a fan/Fam of Prince since the 70’s. One way or another he always inspired me to work harder at my music. Watching him grow over the years has been a thrill but never more than today. It seems that with every new album, he stretches his talent and skills. It’s always exciting for me to see what new ideas emerge from all that talent.

What I have seen now is an artist that not only has become a full force in music, (not just pop music or soul music or rock music but music across the board), but also truly cares about his fans. From setting up the NPGMC, to asking for the house lights to be turned on several times so he could see us, you can tell that we are as important to Prince as he is to us. I know of no other artist that would allow there fans such personal memories.

A personal note to Prince;

You look happier and more at ease than I have ever seen you. Your music is full of heart and truth; it makes my heart smile and my mind open up. I look forward to your next visit to Houston and next time I will try not to be so nervous if I get the chance to meet you.

And a final note to all, if you miss this experience you will regret it. If you haven’t joined the NPGMC, do it, you won’t regret it.

Pease and love to all

L
A
  L

from Marlo

It has been 2 days since the concert has ended and I am still in awe! Everyone that know me, also know that I am a very big fan, and have been since the age of seven. Therefore, everyone knew that I was definitely going to the concert. But, when trying to explain to family, friends, and coworkers about the concert, I am speechless. I can only tell them that it was wonderful or it was beautiful. However, the "True" experience of it all was so much more than wonderful and beautiful, combined.

I simply can't believe the incredible atmosphere of the members at the soundcheck. We were all patient and respectable during our high anticipation of what was yet to come. Just last year, one of my coworkers and I had a conversation about what would we say to him if ever we had a chance to actually meet him. We both "Agreed" that instead of conversating with him, it would be better to simply sit back and watch and observe him doing what he does best. Little did we know that this chance was sooner than ever to be predicted. I think that we enjoyed observing the soundcheck almost as much as the actual concert.

Once again, after 2 days, I am still functioning on pure adrenaline. I don't know when the effects will wear off! I just wanted to take time to say thanks, to Mr. Nelson and the employees of NPG, for making this impossible vision an awesome reality. Lastly, I wanted to apologize to Mr. Nelson for slightly losing my composure as we crossed paths while he was approaching the stage. I just never, ever expected to be face to face, with the one whom has kept me sane in a highly insane and unstable world.

Mr. Nelson, continue to do all that only "You" can do! God bless you and your family.

from Jocelyn

One night alone is never enough to spend with the most talented and "SEXY" man in the world !!! I have loved this man and his music since the days of Do Me Baby. I remember first hearing that song in 4th grade....and every since then, Prince has been my #1. I'm 32 years old and have been a Prince fan for 24 years!!

The concert was incredible as it always is. Only death could have kept me from seeing him perform live....AGAIN!!! I was there when he last performed at Hofeinz Pavillion and that was incredible. Prince blew me away with the energy he always puts into his music. There is no one truly greater, musically than him. His lyrics, vocals, presentation and vibe are far beyond this world. Prince is like wine.....he just gets better with time.

I was really blown away when he sang one of my favorites, Christopher Tracy's Parade......I had make sure I wasn't just imagining it!!! Then when he went all the way back with How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore.....oh my goodness!! He also sang another all-time favorite of mine, I Love You But I Don't Trust You Anymore........{{{whew}}} All I can say is that you will ALWAYS get your money's worth when seeing him perform. There is no other feeling like it. It's a natural high. It doesn't matter how much the tickets cost, because I will be one FAM that will be right there. I commend and thank Prince for all the wonderful years he has given us. I know the best is yet to come. I love you Prince and would never break my little Princes' heart.(wink)

Regards,
Jocelyn
Houston, TX

from Chanda

I have to say that the show I saw in Houston was in one word "FABULOUS"! I live in-between both Houston and New Awlins', and would have definately gone to see the show in New Orleans too! I had pretty good seats, but unfortunately I am only 5"3 so it was hard for me to see over the taller people in front of me. On the other hand, that forced me to tune in to the music more intently rather than focusing on the show itself.

I grew up around jazz and it was nice to see Prince "get it" like he did, especially with the horn section, my favorite part of the show. I am all about the horns! Ayway, thanks for a wonderful night alone with you and hope to see you in concert next time ya'll are down south.

Chanda
Lake Charles, LA

from J

It's been two days since I left your show and I'm still on a spiritual high. I've wanted to attend one of your shows for the last 23 years. I was 7 years old in 1979-the last time you performed in Baton Rouge, LA (my hometown).My mother said I was too young to see you then.It would be too difficult to attend your New Orleans, LA perfomance on a Monday night, so a girlfriend and I spontaneously set out to drive from Baton Rouge, LA to Houston on Friday night.Let me yell it to everyone--It was well worth the drive and the wait!!!Prince, the master of music and intellect, strummed my heart when he played both the guitar & piano.

The NPG-what a great choice in a band. Maceo, you are bad in the good sense of the word. Candy-keep blowing girl! Rhonda-you make a bass stand out like nothing else. Renato- HOT! HOT! HOT! -and thanks for the autograph after the show. John- I ain't never heard a percussionist play like that. Keep doing what you do. And Greg- how did you make that trombone fit in like that?

Prince--I expected great music from you, but you really spread on the icing when you touched our minds and souls by leaving us with nuggets of knowledge to take home with us.I thank God for your maturity in Him and obedience to what He has set out for you to do.He's really using you in more ways than you know.You ministered to me spiritually.Keep interacting with us-your fans-they way you do. We truly did make harmony.Thank you! I only wished you could have seen my girlfriends and I when we heard which hotel you had checked into.If only you were a fly on the wall of our car's interior when when we spotted the purple bus outside of TFS Hotel! We're still laughing at our temporary insanity.A thanks to the fan who told us-she really knew what she was talking about.The purple bus really was parked outside. The 3 of us sat in the lobby with hopes of overhearing your room number as the band checked-in. Didn't want to infringe on your privacy-only wanted an autograph. That would have been the tip of the iceberg for me. My only regret is that I didn't become a club member. I will be one for the next tour. Just next tour-please come to Baton Rouge, LA and bless us with your talent & creativity.

Forever,
J Dunbar
Baton Rouge, LA

from NJFAM

It's been 24 hours since we last met, and I am still trying to put into words what I "experienced" last night in Houston. I have had the privelige of witnessing Prince perform a number of times when I lived in the NYC/Philly area. As a recent transplant to Houston, I was unsure of whether or not Prince would venture down and bring his message of hope to the Bayou City. Not only did he bring it, but he also brought the house down with it!

I was lucky enough to get to the theater early and secure two front row seats for me and my girl (I have never had a front row seat for anything before). If that was the ONLY benefit of the NPGMC, I'd say sign me up again next year! I thoroughly enjoyed the sound check - worth the price of admission in itself - and I plan on working on my TRC lyrics to grace (or scare) the audience with my vocals should Prince be so inclined to ask for volunteers again (the 3 fams did a beautiful job on Last December). When Prince sat down on the stage to have a little casual Q&A with the audience, I realized that was the missing piece to being a Prince fan; I was finally able to see a normal person with an extraordinary talent just hangin' out like a regular guy - that's what the NPGMC is about to me.

The show was incredible, and although I enjoyed Prince's piano renderings of the "old school" material, I could have listened to the TRC+ jams all night long (maybe at an after party next time - Please don't make me move all the way back east to see you at an after hours jam!). I hope you don't mind, but I decided not to keep the new "Family Name" you gave me - It's nice to have a choice, and you helped open my eyes to something I never would have thought of before. Although I may not always agree with the message (that's what diversity is all about), I'll always agree to listen. Thanks for being a part of my life for the last 20 years!

from Deborah

I arrived at the venue too early to admit to, and I was second in line (behind the "purple curse" lady and her husband) as one hour turned into the next the crowd increased. I sat praying that I wouldn't be trampled. Sometime after 5 PM the doors opened and to my surprise, there was not a stampede. I sincerely thank ALL those who had my back. I was the first person to enter the sound check. I had my pick of seats for that moment. As fate would have it, I brought my seat from home. I knew this thing would be good for something one day. Anyway, the seat of my choice--front row just left of center -- was removed from the row (thank you) and I backed that thang up and chilled. Others filed in as the band was running through some songs, some of which were not immediately recognizable to me. I knew Prince was around since I think recall hearing him say something just before I entered and not long after that, it happened... Prince stepped to the stage. I was determined not to have a fit over it all. It was difficult, but I managed maybe a little too well. I'll leave the particulars of the concert to others that have and will post their reviews (shouts to D. Platt!) since I don't recall the songs in any order. Suffice it to say, the show/band was TIGHT! Some of the stand outs in my opinion were: Sometimes It Snows In April, How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore, Strange Relationship, and Adore. I enjoyed hearing a bit of new stuff too since that's what I hoped for. It was very well mixed. Hearing Didn't Cha Know was also cool. Thanks so much. Looking forward to next time.

PEACE,
Deborah

from Brad

I must say that after the show last night, I left absolutely speechless! Prince was so full of life and energy! The soundcheck be4 the show was totally jammin'!!...(I could've watched just that all night)... :) ... The thing that really touched me the most about the show was how Prince just hung out with us (members of the NPGMC) after the soundcheck. There was this incredible '1 on 1' feeling goin' on with us then. He answered several questions, and was even cool enough 2 bring 3 individuals up 2 sing 'Last December'...IT WAS 2 COOL!!! The main show was just remarkable! I was shocked that he played so much off 'The Rainbow Children', and yet mixed the set up with so much more! I've never in my life xperienced such a touching, positive, and powerful performance in MY LIFE!! If this is a hint of what the NPGMC has 2 offer in years 2 come, then ya'll got a VERY loyal subscriber 4 years 2 come!

Peace & Thank U all so much 4 such a wonderful xperience!!

Brad Attaway

from Jessica

Just an incredible show.The musicianship was extroidanary.I am an artist myself and this industry is tough as nails.I appreciate your courage in moving forward to evoke change.For many years, I have been inspired by your work.It has given me the strength to keep going.For one to stand out, one must be different.We have all been blessed by sharing this musical journey with you.I also thank you for allowing us to be in such an intimate setting with you.At the soundcheck I was extremely greatful to be allowed to sing next to you.When you asked if anyone could get up to sing the lyrics to Last December.There were 2 guys, and I was the only female.What an amazing experience.The crowd seemed so in love with the whole ambience of everything. Thankyou for this. I felt this electricity flow through me as I sang..and the crowd screamed. The show was a journey unto itself.I also appreciate your new keyboard player Renato."Tudo bem Renato, sou Brasileira tambem. Chamo-me Jessica.You are an incredible musician.!!!What a blessing to be in that kind of groove.AMAZING! It was all so new, but as time changes , so we must. God has blessed you Prince.I look upon you and your band with such hope.Makes me keep going with my own career.Perhaps one day, if you find time you could hear my material...Thankyou for everything ..once again.

from private_joy7

I must say, I'm so glad you're growing with me. Mentally and spiritually.That show was exactly what Houston needed. I watched the way they responded to your every word. They wouldn't even sit until you said so. That's why I love you. I felt your soul and now I know you felt mine too. I wanted to cry knowing the pain you went thru to find the truth. But I felt great when I saw your plato. The music inspired us as usual. You showered the crowd with your love and recieved just as many blessing in return. Thank you for the knowledge and the passion in which you delivered it with. Last night you gained another piece of my heart
Aseeya El

from Melodie Lee

Mr. Cool,

Thank you so much for such a wonderful night! We can not believe that less then 24 hours ago, we were spending time with you. Our seats seemed close enough to touch you, so close we could smell the incense burning on stage. Yes it is truly better to give then to receive, we are in agreement of that, but what a gift you gave! Thank you for giving my Husband the opportunity to be on stage with you, what a ride! Still feels like such a dream, we will never forget it!

Houston is not finished with you, please come back soon! God Bless You!

from Stephanie

I saw the show last night and needless to say I was amazed. The show was full of truths that no one really likes to touch on or say out loud. I was a little late, but I still came in time to see the best show I have ever seen. I am only nineteen years old, but I have been listening to your music for as long as I can remember. I love the way I have never heard two songs by the artist that sound the same. I can honestly say I have not listened to the radio in about two years because the music that is played sickens me and it sucks to hear the same songs over and over and over again. Thank you sooo much for last night. It was great to hear REAL MUSIC.

As I said I am only nineteen and I know you may think I don't know much about anything. I hear more often than not I don't know anything about music. I listen only listen to old school because of the repeat factor with other music. i am impressed by the way you remain at the top of individuality. It's also shows how brave and impressive you are when you can stand up for what you believe in and not worry about what people are going to say about the way you feel because you know it's the truth. I hope you continue to speak the truth. Futhermore last night at the show I was actually getting teary eyed. i have never been to a show, by any artist, that has been so truthful, motivating and real. It is a rare and special thing and peron that can touch your heart through their vision. Everytime you come to Houston I will definitely be there. It a refreshment from the everyday, every hour stuff that these radio stations play. Thank You for coming back to Houston. I think you know exactly how we all feel about you.

Love Always (as I will always Love You)
Stephanie

from Shyrene

I jammed along at your concert in Houston, Texas. I'm 25 years of age or 25 years happy & I have been listening 2 your music since 4ever. Thankfully, since 4ever, and again at the concert, through your music you have introduced & brought me love. It seems, some folks have always only wanted to see mostly negativity in your music. From birth (ha), I was always naturally aware of the positives in your music(& I'm a vir___). The possessiveness always easily and naturally drowned out the negativity. Your music doesn't need a category. It's music that real music lovers can feel. You & ur music are positively boundless and both give a constant love that's incomparable to anything. It's music I am thankfully and beautifully attached to. Prince, through your music, u help in giving me an added since of purpose. U r a great teacher & motivator of love, life, music & more. If u ever stop playing, then I'll have to start, or maybe I'll start right now. cover ur ears. ha Know that u r understood and loved. It seems, u r trying 2 humbly, lovingly and sincerely help plant the seeds that will hopefully enable and ensure the sincere purification & distribution of anything love-filled (artistic & the like) everywhere. Once again, at the concert u uplifted my spirits. Everyday, u add a rainbow of tranquillity into my life. Play whatever music YOU want, it's all great, your music is surreal. but, if u want a suggestion, play "When The Lights Go Down".. gotta love the jazz..haha I believe in love, humility, honesty & positivity, without reason or doubt & whatever represents that. In my life, kind of, in a way, somehow, :^) throughout the many years your music has represented that.

Thank you, and keep it up,
Shyrene Spikes
Houston, Texas

from Annette

You absolutely BLEW UP Houston on Sunday night!!!! You have always had wonderful concerts, but this one was positively the highlight of them all! I am particularly pleased to hear that you have become my brother in faith. Believe it or not, I have always kept you in my prayers. Jehovah is good!!!

You keep doing what you are doing, and I'll keep doing what I am doing; that is, being a devoted fan since 1978. May God continue to bless you and keep you.

Oh, and come back to Houston soon!

Love,
Annette

from James H.

I won't say as much as I did on the Hit and Run tour post, so I will just keep my description of the show short and sweet.

OH MY GOOD LAWD................GOD IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank You Prince for coming to Houston. I think you know by now how much we love you.

Peace, and thanks for the "real" music.

James H.

(By the way, I certainly hope you were serious about the WNPG radio station.)

from Sean

Thanks a ton NPG. This was the second concert I've been to (Hit and Run 2001). Both of these shows were amazing in their own regards, but very different. Last nights show was the tightest (musically) show that I've EVER seen. Real music played by real musicians. All of the Rainbow Children tunes were amazing. The highlight for myself was "When u were mine" and "I love u but I don't trust u anymore"

The only thing I would change would be that I would of become a member of the NPG music club so I could get in the sound check and phater seats.

Thanks Again Prince and NPG.
Sean Dollahon
College Station, Texas (come play here)

from Elise

Easily the best show that I have seen...the visual and aural pleasure was something spectacular. His band was tight knit...to quote "Real Musicians...Real Music...for real people." Prince couldn't have been more correct in that he gave us all something to agree on...bringing us to joy through the power of the music. Tunes from Rainbow Children had all of us dancing up out of our seats...Everlasting Now...1+1+1=3 and Mellow Mellow...Awsome. For the original npg old school lovesexy fams...a real sweet medley of tunes with Prince at the keys..."dont trash the ride..." Nothing Compares 2 U...Starfish + Coffee...I Wanna B Ure Lover...and for me my joyfull, tearfull, and most definitely heartfelt moment was found during Sometimes It Snows in April...singing me to joy...The night ended with a reminder of how powerful and great our Creator is and Prince reacquainted us with a rousing Purple Rain...Loving this everchanging ever evolving colorful and complex music for a halflife...it was well worth the wait to see such virtuoisity and excellence shared between Prince and his players...Candy, Maceo, Rhonda...and the rest...There is no denying that I loved the music programing for my radio station of the night and appreciate all the more the DJ...Heart filled with song and love...and a fullfillment...and hope for all the Rainbow Children...I say thank you Prince...
rainbow child
Elise

from Dove4Truth

The concert in Houston, Texas was beautiful. All the performers really gave their 100% and more to all the music lovers who attended. What really touched me was the diversity of the crowd. There were people of all colors, shapes, and sizes in attendance that all shared one commonality--Music. I have been to other musical gatherings, and they could not compare to the "Rainbow" that was in attendance at the Prince/NPG concert. It was truly a beautiful, blessed experience to see all God's children together in peaceful coexistence.

Thank you to Prince and the NPG family for their dedication to truth through musical expression. Thank you for sharing the "Rainbow" with us.

Peace and blessings,

Dove4Truth

from Shauna

Prince,

I just wanted to let you know that the concert in Houston was EXCELLENT!!! Please keep Houston on your list for future concerts. I have been able to see you the past three years and every year, you beat the last concert. It was so funny that people was having so much fun that you had to tell the audience to sit down and have a break.

I have never been to a concert where the artist would perform for 2 1/2 hours without a break or an opening act. Everyone in the music industry needs to look and learn from you.

I love the new album and the messages that you are sending. Out of all the songs, I love "She loves me 4 me." I was hoping you would sing it. Please put on your list for the next concert tour.

I also love the song "Family Name." I am an African American female, and I am glad you performed that song last night. I was watching the audience to see if people were understanding what you were singing about. A lot of people had a straight face like "what is he singing about?" A couple (Caucasian) sitting next to me asked me and my husband what the song was about and what album it is on. I hope that everyone will get this album and listen to the messages.

I definitely agree with the statement you made about the radio stations. When I first got your album, I would call the radio stations in Houston to request one of your songs while I was at work. None of the stations had your record. Not even 102.1, 97.9, or 97.1, which are supposed to be "urban" channels. It has got to the point where I will listen to CD's while in traffic so I would not have to hear the same songs 20 times a day.

Once again, I just wanted to know you have a life long fan in me. I hope you come back to Houston next year. If not, I will be where you are whether it is in Texas or in Louisiana.

Thanks for the love u give!!

See ya next year!!!

Shauna Coleman

from Teri

High Prince,

Just wanted to say thank you so much for a wonderful night in Houston! You were (like always) beautiful! Your music is so amazing! Full of inspiration, joy, love and the truth!

The feeling that one gets when attending your concerts is breath-taking! I never wanted it to end! People of ALL colors came to play! That alone is one of the best parts about your concerts! To look out in the crowd when the house light come on and seeing everyone singing and agreeing all in the same breath and the same time! Simply overwhelming!! Please keep on preaching the good news! Maybe, one day the rest of the world will hear you and finally understand!!

Well, let me get to the sound check and concert know!

We arrived at the Verizon Theater (formerly known as the Aerial Theater) at around 4:15. Already there was a long line of Fams! My cousin Crystal and I signed in at #51! I just knew we would be in about the 4-5 row. We had great conversations with lots of other club members while waiting, Jimmy and his friend, the Daddy that brought his eight years old son to his second Prince concert, and so many more I can't remember everyone's name. After a while, we were finally let in! Through security to pick up our laminates/tickets, then straight to our seats. To my surprise, we got 3rd row right in the center of the stage! Best seats I ever had at any concert! The sound was really cool! We got to listen to some funked up (Minneapolis style) jams for awhile, then he asked for 3 people to come up on stage to sing "Last December". I was one of the people picked to come up and sing, but as I walked up to the stage and looked into his eyes, I was paralyzed! I must have got stage fright or something! So some other people went up instead! They did pretty good! I'll do better next time!! Later, Prince sat on the edge of the stage and talked to us! He apologized for being late, he said he was down the street at a Kingdom Hall! We talked a little more, then he was off! He told the members that we had better watch our seats, that the general admission people would come in and try to take them. Sure enough, here they came! Just a warning to other Fams (Watch your seat!!)

The concert itself was so magnificent! Maceo Parker was too cool!! He really rocked Houston! We loved you so much! Candy Dulfer was simply amazing! You go girl!!! I can't even express in words the way John Blackwell played the drums! That man is sooo tight!! Rhonda Smith is kick'in! Keep putting out those smooth melodies! Renato Neto especially impressed me tonight! He is so cute!! Those keyboards were smokin'! Greg Boyer was really cool too! So much talent all rolled up into one great band. Prince was (without a doubt) the MOST! The way that man makes you feel, I guess you have to be a club member to understand!

Well, two and half hours later it was all over! We didn't want to leave though! Houston fans hung out for awhile waiting on the famous announcement about were the after party would be held this year! Finally after a while we heard that there would be no afterparty, I guess because of the road trip to New Orleans for tomorrow nights show! That's cool, just be careful and hurry back to Houston!! We love you so much!

I really liked what you said about the radio stations today! I hate to listen to the radio, but I love good music! WNPG sounds really good! I wish that was a reality today! A radio station that we could tune to any time and hear real artist performing real music! Thank goodness for NPGMC!

I learned allot tonight! I just wanted to say thank you again for coming to Houston and preaching the good news to us! We are truly blessed and we celebrated you and your gift from God tonight! Words cannot express my gratitude, respect and love that I have for you! Thanks for being such a huge influence in my life! Your devoted fam of more than 20 years!

I'll see you in June at the Celebration!

Love4oneanother,

Teri Vaughn
Houston, Texas

from Maria

Dear Brother:

My friend Sarah and I just got back from your Houston Concert. It was an amazing show. You are truly a gifted artist. I am a Jehovah’s Witness and it brings me joy to hear that you are now a baptized brother. I appreciate you preaching to the audience about our father’s name and about his kingdom. I got the chance to talk to your keyboard player after the show and he confirmed that you are a Jehovah’s Witness. I asked him to tell something that I’ve wanted you to know ever since I found out that you are a witness. I asked him to tell you that our heavenly father Jehovah chose you to be a part of his organization so that we can have beautiful music in paradise. I always used to ask myself if we are going to have music in paradise and when I found out that you because a brother that answered my question. Wow Jehovah has great taste in music! Again you are a wonderful person. May you always fear Jehovah and may Jehovah’s blessings be upon you always! I wish you the best in all you do. Thank you again for your inspiring music!

Sisterly Love!
Maria

from Sarah

Brother Nelson,

It's only been an hour since I left your show. I can't begin to describe the awesome feelings of truth and brotherhood that I felt there. My friend Maria and I were filled with joy at hearing you describe the path we should all be taking in this system in "The Everlasting Now". And our hearts almost popped out of our chests hearing talk of the righteous way to worship, the Holy Scriptures, and the use of God's name. I wanted to yell to the audience "Jehovah! God's name is Jehovah!"

The both of us were awestruck, not necessarily because we were watching one of the biggest, most talented artists of all time, but because we were watching him preach to a room full of people who needed to hear it. Because we were looking at a man who Jehovah had turned into a humble, loving, righteous individual.

Maria says that she knows Jehovah choose to make you a witness so that we would have beautiful music to listen to in the paradise.

We spoke with Renato after the show. He was very pleasant and incredibly nice, and we asked him to please let you know that two Witnesses had been at your show. I know he will tell you, but I just had to email you and let you know how happy we are that Jehovah has blessed us with yet another spiritual brother such as yourself. You are definitely an encouragement to Maria and myself, as well as other brothers and sisters I'm sure.

And might I add that I have never in my life heard such incredible talent as I did tonight. The guitars, drums, horns, and keyboards, played with such passion. It was fabulous. By far the best concert ever!

Keep up the good work, and may Jehovah bless your efforts!

Agape,
Sarah Snyder
Spring Branch Cong., Houston, TX.

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