Music, Memories, and Magic: Discovering Paisley Park

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Paisley Park in Minneapolis, MN, the legendary home and creative space of the iconic artist…you know who it is… Prince.💜 The place he built and wanted to have as an all-in-one creative space. I bought the Ultimate Experience, a 3-hour guided tour given by James. There were about 15 of us in the group. Was it worth the $180 price tag? Let’s see…..

A Warm Welcome to the Gorgeous Atrium

Our tour began in the stunning atrium of Paisley Park. The bright, open space immediately set the tone for the visit, with Prince’s iconic love symbol embedded in the center of the floor. Surrounding this area were key rooms including his business office which, to me was more ‘personal’ than most of the tour. We were told everything was left as it were. His desk was not flashy, not huge, just simple, functional, and NEAT!  There was a collage of family photos, a stack of books beside his desk with the Bible on top, books about Egypt, and”In Praise of Black Women” book.  The ‘little’ kitchen area reminded me of a classic 1950s diner. Other rooms were decorated with costumes, artifacts, and instruments, each meticulously designed to reflect his unique style. Along the walls were framed gold and platinum albums. The large frame has all the tickets for every show on the 2004 Musicology Tour. Overlooking the ground floor was part of Prince’s private quarters we could not see and two doves (the original doves died in recent years).

The Influence Wall

One of the most striking features of Paisley Park is the “Influence Wall.”  At least 12-foot-long mural, the artwork depicts Prince at the center, flanked by the artists who influenced him on one side and those he influenced on the other. It’s a powerful visual representation of his place in music history and his far-reaching impact on the industry. Can you imagine how much that wall would have evolved if he were still here? There would be no room eventually! 😱

The Creative Spaces

Paisley Park was where Prince lived full-time during the last several years of his life and where musicians from all over the world came to collaborate and create.  The energy in each room was deeply felt by just imagining all the talent that recorded, played, and hung out there. The studios each served its purpose and had something to provide for whatever you, the artist needed.  We were able to listen to a few sound clips of raw recordings. One “Ultimate Package” highlight was a photo op in Studio B holding a yellow cloud guitar…we each had to wear gloves to handle it. although an amazing moment, kind of disappointing to be told it was a replica, not the real authentic guitar, Prince himself played.

The Sound Stage

At the end of the tour, our phones were unlocked and we were allowed to take photos freely in the impressive sound stage space, the heart of so many legendary events. This was THE place where concerts, commercial filming, parties, and much more took place.  Graffiti Bridge was mostly shot there! Concert footage of Prince was shown as we were free to roam around and take photos, and videos. The energy in this room was quickly more laid back and party mode as we all tried to snap everything we could and watch Prince on the screen at the same time! This huge space not only housed a stage, but two of Prince’s cars, his motorcycle from Graffiti Bridge, and an array of his clothing. The coolest part was just before having to leave there, we were all invited to sit on the Purple Couch in the VIP section off the side of the stage…the very couch Prince and his special guests sat! We were given beverages, James took more questions from us as we just hung out and chilled for a few. It was perfect timing because we had been on our feet the entire tour! Sidenote: One rumor was squashed, Michale Jackson and Prince were NOT rivals or hated each other as the tabloids would have you believe! They hung out several times! They played basketball, ping pong and with Janet and Latoya, they went roller skating together. 

The NPG Music Club

The final space was an intimate concert venue. The lounge had purple booths, high tables, and candles lit throughout. We could order lattes, cookies, and other snacks from the “Paisley Park Café.” I opted for a “Jungle Love” latte and a freshly made peanut butter cookie, both of which were deeeelicious. The cookies were so good that I bought a few more to take home.😂

The Gift Shop

The tour concluded with a visit to the gift shop. I hadn’t intended to buy anything, but the adrenaline rush from being in Paisley Park led to some impromptu purchases. How could I say no to Prince?

A Lasting Impression

Visiting Paisley Park was not just a tour but a glimpse into the life and genius of “The Purple One.” It’s so hard to recall everything, but hopefully, I’ve noted more than enough for others who’d want to visit. Besides, some things would be best as a surprise when you go, right? 😉 The experience was a powerful reminder of Prince’s genius, determination, and talent beyond measure.  Now to answer the burning question…was it worth it? A visit to Paisley Park is a must for fans, no doubt! The cost? For me, I’m not so sure the steep price I paid was worth it. I would want more of the personal Prince…a peek into his living space…never before shown family photos, the unreleased music vault…something. But, I get it…being the private person he was, it’s only fair to keep it that way. Overall, I’m happy I went!  💜☔