There's a huge music common denominator that connects Asbury Park and Minneapolis. The former has Bruce Springsteen and the latter, Prince. Both have had an incredible impact on the world of music. Each reached the upper echelon courtesy of incredible talent and uncommon work ethic. Unlike the Garden State's larger than life Frank Sinatra and Minnesota's iconic Bob Dylan, both Springsteen and Prince opted to stay home as opposed to leaving for Los Angeles or New York.
Their mutual respect was documented. The Boss paid his respects after Prince's shocking death in 2017. Shortly after Prince passed away Springsteen and the E Street Band were shrouded in purple-tinted lighting as the group honored Prince on stage at Brooklyn's Barclays Center. "Prince forever!," Springsteen said at the conclusion of the intense 7-minute cover. "There's never been any better."
Prince continues to reign. The stage adaptation of Prince's legendary film and album, "Purple Rain," is expected to hit Broadway in 2026. However, music fans don't have to wait for the show to come to the Great White Way. Folks can catch the pre-Broadway run of "Purple Rain" at Minneapolis' historic State Theatre, which runs through November 16. (https://purplerainbroadway.com)
The play brings to life the electrifying, fictional journey of "The Kid." The protagonist, originally portrayed by Prince, is a troubled but talented fledgling singer-songwriter, that is trying to make it on the Minneapolis club scene. There is plenty of conflict. The Kid has a tumultuous home life, battles a rival band and has an unexpected romance with an emerging singer.
Fans can transport back to 1984 while enjoying the production. While in Minneapolis, the logical next step is visiting Prince's home and studio. Paisley Park, (https://www.paisleypark.com)
Paisley Park isn't in Minneapolis proper, but it's worth the drive to the suburbs. The studio perfectly represents who the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was during his unparalleled career.
The history of Prince is on display during a visit to the 65,000 square-foot facility, where fans learn about Prince the musician and a bit about who the complex person was that decided to remain in his native state when he vaulted into the pop stratosphere.
Guests are privy to Prince's array of costumes, the long coat from "Purple Rain," the aqua suit from Prince's 2007 Super Bowl halftime performance, rare videos and interviews and considerable memorabilia. But it's surprising how small the kitchen where Prince used to hang out to watch his beloved Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Timberwolves and catch film favorites such as the sublime "Some Like It Hot," happens to be.
Speaking of kitchens, Minneapolis is full of culinary delights. The Juicy Lucy, a burger with cheese stuffed inside the beef, is the most bandied about sandwich in the "Land of Lakes." Sample the delicacy at Matt's Bar and Grill (https://mattsbar.com). The other option is the Blucy, bleu cheese in the patty. A Blucy is served at the Blue Door (https://thebdp.com/menu). It's a delicious gut buster. A side order of cheese curds or Nacho Tachos, tater tots, queso, lettuce, tomato, red onion and crema, will make for a memorable meal.
For those who would like to catch a Minnesota Vikings game, the Moxy Minneapolis (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mspod-moxy-minneapolis-downtown/) is just a block from U.S. Bank Stadium. The stylish boutique hotel has comfortable rooms and a vibrant bar area with a bubble hockey game, which is free to play.
Another option is staying in the nearby Minneapolis suburb of Edina, which is a short distance from the Mall of America. The Westin Edina Galleria (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mspwi-the-westin-edina-galleria/overview/) offers spacious accommodations, a game room and a Winter Village, which will return the last week of November for the sixth consecutive year. The Veuve Clicquot Chalet is a warm, stylish room with floor-to-ceiling windows and features multi-course dinners. The traditional Swiss fondue and Raclette will be offered.
Prince is the gateway to a vibrant, diverse city that deserves notice.
Prince is the gateway to a vibrant, diverse city that deserves notice.