Shortly after it was announced that Prince had died at the age of 57, hundreds of his fans converged on Paisley Park to pay homage to the legend. Located in Chanhassen, Minnesota, Paisley Park served as Prince’s home and also the place where he would create music and host private concerts at times.
Unfortunately, it was also the location where he took his final breath.
The gate that surrounds Paisley Park became a makeshift memorial as fans decorated it with flowers, balloons and cards. Several large banners served as platforms for fans to express their feelings and give their final words. A large oil painting of Prince was a subtle reflection of his greatness. It was his art that touched us all and the reason so many felt connected to his legacy.
The day was somber, yet reflective and joyful. It rained on occasion, but seemed perfect when considering one of Prince’s biggest hits — “Purple Rain.” Shortly after the rain stopped, a rainbow appeared over Paisley Park. It seemed like a divine message to ensure that all would be well. Although Prince would no longer be with us in the flesh, his music would always speak to us.
As night fell on Paisley Park, a purple spotlight was projected at the entrance of the compound. Fans took pictures realizing the importance of capturing a place that was now sacred ground.
One of the more memorable quotes from Prince was written on a banner and placed on the gate. “Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today, to get through, this thing called life,” Prince said in the opening of “Let’s Go Crazy.”
It was a simple, yet complex, spoken word piece that serves as a reminder of the inevitable, but it also forces the listener to take advantage of the power of today.
Check out exclusive photos.
By: A.R. Shaw
