Rashad Shabazz's 'Prince's Minneapolis' Explores How the City Shaped Prince's Music
Rashad Shabazz's book, 'Prince's Minneapolis,' released on April 21, 2026, delves into the relationship between Prince and the city of Minneapolis. It posits that the rich musical heritage of the city, rooted in its 19th-century establishment on Indigenous territories, significantly influenced Prince's artistry. The arrival of settlers fostered a collective musical culture, prompting early 20th-century educational policies that ensured music lessons for all children. Prince, born in 1958, was raised in racially divided neighborhoods, drawing inspiration from a variety of musicians. Shabazz suggests that this fragmented musical landscape contributed to Prince's unique sound, while his legacy now enables Minneapolis venues to present a wide array of genres, moving beyond racially divided musical traditions. This interview coincides with the tenth anniversary of Prince's passing on April 21, 2016.
Key facts
- Rashad Shabazz published 'Prince's Minneapolis' on April 21, 2026.
- The book explores how Minneapolis shaped Prince's music.
- Prince died on April 21, 2016.
- Prince blended funk, disco, rock, pop, and gospel.
- Minneapolis had a universal music education policy from the early 20th century.
- Prince grew up in segregated Black neighborhoods in Minneapolis.
- He was influenced by James Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, Motown, Santana, and Pink Floyd.
- Minneapolis concert venues now feature diverse music genres in all areas.
Entities
Artists
- Prince
- Rashad Shabazz
- James Brown
- Santana
Institutions
- RFI
- Motown
Locations
- Minneapolis
- United States
- Inglewood
- California
- Bronx
- England
- Scandinavia