Get ready to dive back into the purple haze – Prince's iconic 1984 album "Purple Rain" is getting a Dolby Atmos makeover just in time for its 40th anniversary. This fresh audio-immersive experience, brought to you by NPG Records and Paisley Park Enterprises in collaboration with Warner Records, is now streaming on your favorite platforms.
For those who somehow missed the memo,"‘Purple Rain" was not just an album – it was a cultural phenomenon. Dropping just ahead of the blockbuster film of the same name, the record topped the US charts for a jaw-dropping 24 weeks and sold over 25 million copies worldwide. It snagged awards at the Grammys, Brits, and even the Oscars. Talk about a triple threat!
The new Dolby Atmos mix, meticulously crafted from the original master tapes by Prince’s longtime collaborator Chris James, promises to deliver an unparalleled listening experience. For the true audiophiles, a Blu-ray version will be hitting the shelves later this year.
But that’s not all, folks! A newly restored 4K version of the "Purple Rain" film is set to hit theaters for a limited run starting July 3. So, get your popcorn ready for another round of Prince's cinematic magic.
Meanwhile, at the legendary Paisley Park Studios in Minnesota, Prince fans are gathering for Celebration 2024. Running through June 24, this event features live performances by The Revolution, The New Power Generation, Morris Day, and more. It’s the ultimate purple pilgrimage for fans around the globe.
And if that wasn’t enough to make your purple heart race, there’s also a stage musical adaptation of ‘Purple Rain’ in the works. With Tony-winning producer Orin Wolf at the helm, this is sure to be a showstopper.
In a recent interview, Prince’s sister Tyka Nelson shared heartfelt memories of her last conversations with the legendary artist, reflecting on their family bond and his enduring legacy. Nelson revealed that their final interaction occurred four days prior to his death. “He kept avoiding questions. I kept getting mad. I felt like ‘talk to me for two seconds.’ He’d change the subject, make a joke and then we’d both laugh,” she said.
In other Prince news, the Minneapolis house featured in "Purple Rain" is about to become the coolest Airbnb on the planet, available for rent for an entire year. Imagine the Instagram opportunities!
And for a nostalgic treat, Prince's rare B-side "United States Of Division" has been released to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his 2004 album "Musicology". It’s a reminder that Prince’s vault is still full of surprises.
So, whether you're revisiting "Purple Rain" for the thousandth time or experiencing it anew, this 40th-anniversary release is the perfect way to honor the Purple One’s genius. Long live the legacy of Prince!
Photo: KEVIN KANE/WIREIMAGE VIA GETTY IMAGES
