On April 21st, the legendary pop artist Prince was found dead at his home in Minnesota at age 57. His death sent the world into mourning and generated an outpouring of love from fans and public figures, with President Obama, Frank Ocean, Justin Vernon and many more paying their respects through social media. However, the legendary film director Spike Lee took an extra step and honored the singer with an impromptu block party outside his production headquarters in Brooklyn.
The New York City police department closed off the block so fans and friends could join Lee to sing and dance along to Prince’s greatest hits. The Associated Press claims that around 1,000 fans attended, although Lee himself estimated a head count of around 5,000. On the day of the singer’s death, Lee posted an invitation to the party on Instagram in which he encouraged fans to “wear something purple” and join him in a celebration of Prince’s life. In the end, the event brought fans, friends and colleagues together to pay tribute to one of the greatest icons in music.
As evidenced by a series of Instagram posts, Lee had been a longtime fan and friend of the singer, and even collaborated with him by making a short film for the single “Money Don’t Matter 2 Night” off his 1991 album Diamonds and Pearls. He is one of many public figures to speak out about Prince’s shocking death, which is still being investigated by authorities.
Prince was undoubtedly one of the most talented, hard-working and respected artists in the industry. His career spanned over three decades in which he released nearly 40 studio albums, including classics such as Dirty Mind, 1999, Purple Rain and Sign O’ The Times. He was known for his eclectic vocal style, fashion sense and blending of genres that set him apart from other artists throughout the years. He was a true icon that inspired millions of people, and Lee is one of many that will miss him greatly.
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