Jon Bream and Chris Riemenschneider | (TNS) Star Tribune MINNEAPOLIS — Lordy, Lordy, “Purple Rain” is 40, and Prince’s hometown is not going to let you forget it. This weekend’s Celebration 2024 at Paisley Park is centered on the 40th anniversary of His Royal Purpleness’ landmark album and film (officially released June 25 and July 27, respectively). So are Friday and Saturday’s reunion concerts by his old band the Revolution at First Avenue.
So is a hefty new book by Twin Cities music journalist Andrea Swensson, “Prince and Purple Rain 40 Years.” With all that and lots more happening around the anniversary, we bring you 40 fun facts about “Purple Rain.” 1.
Like many things in Prince’s career, “Purple Rain” was a big risk. The movie with a first-time star, first-time director, first-time producer was made for $7 million and grossed $68 million during its theatrical run. 2.
“Purple Rain” won an Oscar (for best original song score), led to four Grammys for Prince, and its blockbuster soundtrack spent 24 consecutive weeks at No. 1 with four Top 10 singles. 3.
“Purple Rain” was the second movie Prince shot. During his 1982 tour with the Time, a crew helmed by music video pioneer Chuck Statler filmed concert and offstage footage for an unfinished project known as “The Second Coming.” The 16 mm footage remains in Prince’s vault.
4. After the success of the album “1999” in ’82, Prince’s management contract with the L.A.
-based firm of.
