Even though as a member of the media I was among the first to learn of Prince’s death, it still is quite a shock that a musical icon of my childhood is gone.
For us Gen X’ers, Prince was that rock ‘n roll guy, that dance music guy, that sexy music guy … he had a prime position on the soundtrack of our childhood and adolescence.
Of course, like most creative types, he came with controversy. Many of my classmates were restricted or forbidden from listening to Prince, who early in his career produced songs with sexually explicit lyrics and themes.
My mother, Southern Baptist-raised, was NOT one of the critics.
I remember my mom actually enjoying his music. She loved Prince’s style, his energy, his passion. Mom loved those who were different.
So it was appropriate that Prince died on the 11-month anniversary of my mother’s death. Maybe Mom is finally getting to be a Prince groupie somewhere on the other side. I think Prince in turn would have accepted fans of all kinds, even ones with thick Southern accents.
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The Memories Project 
Huh. You’re the second blog I read about how parents wouldn’t let their kids listen to Prince. My parents didn’t really pay attention, although they did know Prince and just thought he was weird. However, I’m older than you and was an adult (college age) by the time he was on the scene. My parents had pretty much let go of the reins by then.
I drafted a blog last week about someone else’s passing, and then Prince died soon after. The blog goes up tomorrow.
Our town is celebrating it with huge love. When I came home from the Mumford and Sons concert Thursday night, the whole city was aglow in purple. I’ve never been to Paisley Park, but have heard of all of his quiet, yet generous donations to Minneapolis. Love our city! 💜
It did seem like a special bond between Prince and the city, so many musicians seem to not have a real home base because they tour so much.