Iconic artist Prince has announced a special “Rally 4 Peace” concert in Baltimore, Maryland scheduled for Mother’s Day, (May 10). The show will take place at the Royal Farms Arena.
The purpose of the spontaneous event is to be a catalyst for pause and reflection following the outpouring of violence that has gripped Baltimore and areas throughout the United States. As a symbolic message of our shared humanity and love for one another, attendees are invited to wear something gray in tribute to all those recently lost in the violence. Prince will be joined in Baltimore by his critically acclaimed funk-rock group 3RDEYEGIRL. Several industry superstars have called in support of the event and are expected to attend.
Details surfaced last week about a protest song titled “Baltimore” Prince recently recorded in response to the civil unrest. The song was written following the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray and is a tribute to all of the people of Baltimore. Although the song hasn’t yet debuted, the lyrics were recently made public and as a message of reconciliation, Prince states “Peace is more than the absence of war.” That sentiment was similarly reflected this past weekend when Prince & 3RDEYEGIRL hosted a spontaneous DANCE RALLY 4 PEACE EVENT at the icon’s Paisley Park recording complex in Chanhassen, MN. Prince took the stage after midnight, echoing tributary sentiments to the crowd saying “RIP to those lost” and “Thanks for wearing gray.” Fittingly, the live set ended with Prince inviting the audience into a communal chant of “Baltimore… Peace 4 ever more.”
Contrary to Prince & 3RDEYEGIRL’s recently announced HITNRUN USA tour, where shows have been announced just a few days – and sometimes hours – before they happen, those in the community of Baltimore are invited to plan ahead for this special family-friendly weekend event.
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, May 6th at 5 p.m. local time. A portion of the proceeds will be directed to the benefit of local Baltimore-based youth charities.
Late last year, Prince released two chart-topping albums, ART OFFICIAL AGE, a solo album that debuted at #1 on the R&B chart, and PLECTRUMELECTRUM, the debut album from Prince& 3RDEYEGIRL, which debuted at #1 on the Rock chart.
Release plans for Prince’s new song, “Baltimore,” have not yet been announced.