Sheila E. led a group of drummers on stage to open the show (Chris Juhn/MSR News)
Percussionist, singer/songwriter and longtime Prince protégé and musical collaborator, Sheila E., paid homage to Prince and his legacy of charitable giving with the “Purple Philanthropy” concert at Minnesota Orchestra Hall Oct. 23.
Sheila’s father, jazz percussionist Pete Escovedo, members of Prince’s family, ex-wife Mayte and other Prince associates, plus young local musicians, joined her on stage to celebrate Prince’s legacy. Prior to the show, members of community organizations that Prince once gave to, including Sabathani Community Center and Eric Mahmoud of Harvest Prep, spoke about the late artist’s charitable acts. Early in the day, local artists displayed their Prince-inspired artwork.
See photos of the concert below by Chris Juhn, and check back for a review of the concert by Ivan B. Phifer.
Sheila E. led a group of drummers on stage to open the show
Sheila E. and drummers opened the show with Prince’s “Sign O’ the Times”
Prince’s ex-wife Mayte dancing to “Te Amo” at Sheila E’s Purple Philanthropy concert Oct 23.
Prince’s ex-wife Mayte dancing to “Te Amo” at Sheila E’s Purple Philanthropy concert Oct 23.
Sheila E. and father Pete Escovdeo, Oct. 23.
Pete Escovedo on timbales
Maya and Nandy McClean dance at the Purple Philanthropy concert, Oct. 23.
The McClean sisters
Prior to the show, members of Prince’s family prior to the concert speaking with Nekima Levy-Pounds
Purple Philanthropy concert, Oct 23.
Members of Prince’s family prior to the concert
Prince’s ex-wife, Mayte Garcia prior to the concert. She joined Sheila E. later on stage to dance to “Te Amo” and other numbers.
Maya and Nancy McClean, former dancers with Prince with Nekima Levy-Pounds
KMOJ’s Shed. G and Q Bear with Nekima Levy-Pounds
Pastor Danny Givens, Jr and Natasha Marie Balgobin
