It’s amazing to think it’s been nearly two years since we lost Prince. Perhaps because his music hasn’t really left me. I was blasting Sign O’ The Times in my car only yesterday and I’ve seen several tribute acts over the period. I’m still not ready to say my goodbyes, which is why when New Power Generation announced some Bluesfest sideshows I had no hesitation in snapping up tickets. Friends seemed bemused that I’d spend money on the “backing band,” but with such stellar musicians and Prince’s incredible body of work to look forward to, I knew this gig would be one hell of a party.
It kicked off with Frank Sultana, who I would have loved to see but missed in favour of getting my carb fix across the street. My friend and I had the best of intentions of setting off early, but when she couldn’t make it to my house until two-and-a-quarter hours after our intended departure time, we knew we’d have to make the choice between support act and dinner. While we love music, the stomach always wins.
By the time we took our seats the room was well and truly warmed up and ready to receive music from these talented musicians just one step removed from the legendary Prince. The set was an exciting one, celebrating the music NPG made with Prince while touching on some of the important music he made without them. Guest vocalists Tamir Davis and Mackenzie Green sent an emphatic message to anyone who wondered whether they could handle Prince’s back catalogue. They slayed numbers like “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “Seven,” and “Gold.” There were a few originals thrown in for good measure, which as a die-hard Prince fan I could probably have done without, although they sent a strong message that NPG are more than simply Prince’s backing band. In fact, they’re one of the tightest musical outfits I can remember seeing. Guys like André Cymone, Morris Hayes, Kirk Johnson, and Tony Mosley are next-level talents.
While I had front-row dress circle seats, I found myself splitting my time between them and up the back, so I could dance. Songs like “U Got the Look,” “1999, “I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man,” and “Controversy” aren’t meant to be experienced sitting down. Up the back with others who had also abandoned their seats, there was such a camaraderie, an unspoken understanding that we all felt these songs to the depth of our souls.
“Purple Rain” would have been the natural closer, but it also would have been a bit cliched. And no one wanted to leave the venue after hearing something so heavy. So I was thrilled it was only the penultimate track. Instead we went out dancing to “Alphabet St.” I think that’s just what Prince would have wanted.
Prince might be gone, but thanks to musicians like New Power Generation he is far from forgotten. They are doing a remarkable job of keeping his legacy alive. I am so thrilled I got to spend time in the presence of their musicianship and Prince’s incredible songs, even if it was without the man himself.
Image source: Stephen Katulka