Back in 2009 I had the privilege of seeing Prince perform for some 3 hours at the Conga Room. Maybe 500 people in attendance, it was a private gathering.

It was the only time I ever got to see him perform live.  And I thank God I did.  While working for Warner Bros. Records I had a chance to meet him in passing, but that wasn’t “meeting” him.  You never actually “met” him unless you heard him play…live.  You had to see (and hear) his genius in motion.

The concert was like having Prince perform in your living room.  Or more accurately, something the size of a high school cafeteria.  You were as close to him as you wanted to be as there was no great crush of people.  It truly was a once in a lifetime moment…unforgettable.  I knew it then and still know it now that was a bucket list moment and it did not disappoint.  Sheila E. even joined him for a set. It was then and always will be the best concert I’ve ever attended. This was the set list.

He ended the night with PURPLE RAIN.

PURPLE RAIN!

Ol’ Skool Company
Dreamer
Everyday People
I Want to Take You Higher
Without Love
1999
—–
Shhh
Musicology
Play That Funky Music
Play That Funky Music (Reprise)
Hollywood Swinging
—–
Bridge Over Troubled Water
When Will We B Paid
Cream
U Got the Look
I Feel 4 U
Controversy
—–
The Bird
Jungle Love
The Glamorous Life
–Holly Rock
Purple Rain

There is an account of the evening HERE