Wendy & Lisa Announce The Revolution’s ‘Purple Rain’ 40th Anniversary Show and Upcoming Album with Annie Lennox
The Revolution is set to perform at First Avenue in Minneapolis, the venue where “Purple Rain’s” famous musical scenes were filmed, as part of Celebration 2024. Released on July 25, 1984, Prince & the Revolution’s “Purple Rain” made a significant impact on pop culture. The single “When Doves Cry” reached No. 1, marking Prince’s first top hit. It stayed at the top for five weeks and was followed by another No. 1, “Let’s Go Crazy,” as well as two additional top 10 singles, “Purple Rain” and “I Would Die 4 U”. The “Purple Rain” soundtrack album dominated the Billboard 200 for 24 weeks, and the film was also a major success. By the end of 1984, Billboard had named “Doves” the year’s top-selling single and highlighted Prince’s substantial influence.
When Prince passed away in 2016 at age 57, “Purple Rain” was the album fans revisited the most, highlighting its lasting legacy. The 40th anniversary of “Purple Rain” calls for a significant celebration, which will take place this weekend in Minneapolis. Prince’s hometown, along with his Paisley Park complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota, will host Celebration 2024, a five-day event featuring performances by The Revolution, Morris Day — Prince’s friend and on-screen rival — and New Power Generation, his post-Revolution band.
On Friday, June 21, The Revolution — Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, Bobby Z., Brownmark, and Dr. Fink — will perform the “Purple Rain” album at First Avenue. Ahead of this anticipated concert, Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman shared that what fans can expect from Celebration 2024 and their memories of filming “Purple Rain” in the cold Minnesota winter.
Wendy & Lisa are also looking forward. They are working on a new project with another music icon, Annie Lennox. Despite their success in the same era, Wendy, Lisa, and Annie only met last year. Now, they are collaborating on an album of original songs set for release soon.
Celebration 2024 is expected to be a significant event, honoring the impact and legacy of “Purple Rain” on music and pop culture. The Revolution’s performance at First Avenue will be a nostalgic tribute to the album that defined an era, honoring Prince’s talent. This concert is part of a broader celebration that includes performances by other notable artists from Prince’s circle, making it an event not to be missed.
The collaboration between Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, and Annie Lennox is another exciting development. Their upcoming project is set to bring new music to fans who have followed their journey from “Purple Rain” to now. The album with Lennox is highly anticipated, showcasing the ongoing talent and creativity of these musicians.
Celebration 2024 in Minneapolis will be a fitting tribute to “Purple Rain” and Prince’s lasting legacy. The Revolution’s performance at First Avenue will highlight the album’s 40th anniversary in the venue where its iconic scenes were filmed. Wendy & Lisa’s collaboration with Annie Lennox shows their continued relevance in the music world. This weekend’s events celebrate both the past and future of these artists’ musical paths.
